A HISTORY OF MICHIGAN'S SAND DUNE PROTECTION ACT

Michigan's sand dunes grace the shores of Lakes Michigan and Superior for 270 miles of unparalleled beauty. This assemblage of dunes represents the highest and longest system of freshwater dunes in the world. Sand dunes face intense development pressures ranging from sand mining and housing development to recreational vehicle use. Concern over the wholesale destruction of these unique natural resources led to the passage of The Sand Dune Protection and Management Act in 1976 to regulate the sand mining industry. In 1989, the act was amended to expand regulation to developmental activities. These amendments have profoundly influenced the way in which homes are constructed in the dunes - evidenced in both the design and construction process, the manner in which homes are accessed, and their impact to the surrounding area. This paper provides a brief overview of the history of sand dune protection in Michigan. The process of identification and selection of the dune areas to be protected, and the State's role in managing these coastal areas are also discussed.