GREENLAND TOWNSHIP, MI— The Department of Natural Resources plans to resume its investigation into the source of an unregulated water supply in Ontonagon County.
Residents have used the water at the former site of Lake Mine in Greenland Township for decades. But the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy says the source must be determined so it can be licensed as a public water supply.
In December, EGLE ordered the DNR to shut off the supply by February 6, then extended the deadline into June, at the request of the DNR.
It appears a mining borehole created a spring, but it lacks any potable groundwater system protections. A retired county mine inspector says he can lead officials to the source once the snow melts.
EGLE says if it’s verified the water can be used, the well can be modified to meet construction standards. If not, it will be plugged and abandoned.
