Macomb Township

Macomb Township receives water from Great Lakes Water Authority, with source water treated at the Lake Huron Water Treatment Plant near Port Huron. From there, water travels through major water mains until reaching Macomb Township. The supply originates from the lower Lake Huron watershed, which includes numerous seasonal streams flowing into the lake.

The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), in collaboration with the U.S. Geological Survey, Detroit Water and Sewerage Department, and Michigan Public Health Institute, conducted a source water assessment in 2005 to evaluate contamination risks. The Lake Huron water intake received a "moderately low" susceptibility rating on the seven-tier scale based on geological factors, water chemistry, and potential contamination sources.

In 2015, GLWA received a grant to develop a source water protection program for the Lake Huron treatment plant. This comprehensive program includes defining roles of government and water agencies, delineating protection areas, identifying potential risks, implementing management strategies, developing contingency plans, planning for new sources, and promoting public education.

The Macomb Township Water & Sewer Department is committed to community health, safety, and welfare. Our mission is to exceed all regulatory requirements while providing superior water quality, adequate fire protection flows, and efficient sewage disposal systems.

Water Conservation and Peak Usage Information

Macomb Township implemented Ordinance Number 242 on May 13, 2009, to manage water usage during peak hours (5am-11pm daily). This ordinance aims to reduce maximum water consumption during these hours, improving water pressure and protecting public health and safety.

The GLWA determines water rates based on each community's highest usage during peak periods. Higher demand requires larger infrastructure (pumps, mains) and more electricity, increasing operational costs. To manage these costs, residents are encouraged to shift heavy water usage to non-peak hours (11pm-5am).

Violations of the Outdoor Watering Ordinance are enforced by the Macomb Township W&S Department. Unlike other regions, water conservation in Michigan doesn't directly affect rates since the Great Lakes provide abundant water. However, reducing peak-time usage helps keep rates lower for all residents.

Protecting Our Waterways

Over three million people in our region depend on lakes and streams for municipal water, with 300,000 registered boaters and 3.5 million annual park visitors. Even if you can't see a water body from your home, storm drains in your area lead directly to lakes and streams.

Simple ways to protect our waters include:

• Keeping pollutants out of storm drains - only rainwater should enter drains
• Using fertilizer sparingly and properly - excess fertilizer causes algae blooms
• Properly disposing of household chemicals and motor oil
• Cleaning up after pets to prevent harmful bacteria
• Practicing responsible car care - use car washes or wash on grass
• Choosing native Michigan plants for landscaping
• Conserving water to reduce pollution runoff

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