MTESP
The Michigan Turfgrass Environmental Stewardship Program provides education, outreach, technical assistance and on-site visits to golf properties that increase compliance with environmental laws and prevent pollution throughout the state. The program increases compliance with numerous laws that are enforced by the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality involving:
- Water Bureau
- Waste and Hazardous Materials Division
- Land and Water Management Division
- Environmental Science and Services Division
Increased compliance and pollution prevention are addressed in six MTESP modules:
1. The Wellhead Protection Module* specifically:
- Increases compliance with the Michigan Safe Drinking Water Act, Act 399 P.A. 1976, as amended.
- Increases compliance with Part 127 of the Groundwater Quality Control Act 368 dealing with well construction and pump installation requirements
- Increases Water Use reporting as required by the Great Lakes Charter
- Addresses legal requirements regarding the installation and monitoring of Type I, II, III wells and irrigation wells involving well permitting, inspection, sampling and maintenance.
- Increases the sealing of abandoned wells
- Increases understanding and awareness of the State of Michigan Wellhead Protection Program
2. The Fuel Storage Module* specifically:
- Increases compliance with Parts 2, 3 and 5 of the Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids Rules, National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 395, as amended, NFPA 30/30A, as amended, Michigan Underground Storage Tank Rules
- Increases proper fuel storage tank permitting, installation and monitoring, closure and removal.
3. The Equipment Washing Module* specifically:
- Increases compliance with Section 3109 of Part 31, Water Resources Protection, of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, as amended and Section 3112 of PA 451 and Part 22 Rules.
4. The Emergency Response Module* specifically:
- Increases compliance with Pollution Incident Prevention Plan requirements - Part 5 Spillage of Oil and Polluting Materials administrative rules promulgated pursuant to Part 31, Water Resources Protection, Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, as amended.
- U.S. EPA Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasures Plan, Title 40, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 112 (40 CFR 112)
5. The Buffer Zone Module* specifically:
- Helps communities address NPDES Phase II Stormwater Regulations
- Reduces erosion, sedimentation and non-point source pollution
6. The Green Purchasing Guide* specifically:
- Promotes products and equipment that reduce waste, minimize inputs to the environment and control point sources of pollution.
*The MTESP provides on-site visits to properties to confirm compliance and pollution prevention accomplishments.