Muskegon Lake Delisted as EPA “Area of Concern”
A Landmark Environmental Win for Muskegon
MUSKEGON, MI — In a major milestone for the community and the environment, Muskegon Lake has officially been removed from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) “Areas of Concern” list, marking the successful completion of decades of cleanup and restoration work.
This accomplishment signifies the full resolution of all nine environmental impairments previously identified in the Muskegon Lake watershed, including issues related to water quality, habitat degradation, and loss of recreational value.
The removal from the list represents a remarkable comeback story for Muskegon — once a hub of industrial activity that left behind pollution and ecological damage, and now a revitalized destination for recreation, tourism, and waterfront development.
“This is not just an environmental achievement; it’s a community victory,” said a City of Muskegon spokesperson. “Through the dedication of local residents, environmental groups, and public agencies, Muskegon Lake is now healthier, cleaner, and thriving once again.”
The City of Muskegon, along with partners such as the Muskegon Lake Watershed Partnership, West Michigan Shoreline Regional Development Commission, and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), has worked tirelessly for decades to restore the lake. Efforts included habitat restoration, sediment cleanup, shoreline improvement, and pollution reduction.
Beyond environmental benefits, the delisting opens new doors for economic and recreational opportunities along Muskegon’s waterfront. Developers and property owners can now invest with greater confidence, knowing that the area’s long-term environmental health is secure. The improvement is also expected to enhance property values and attract more visitors, boaters, and anglers to the region.
The City of Muskegon and local partners plan to continue long-term monitoring and maintenance to ensure the lake remains a clean and vibrant natural resource for future generations.
Why This Matters to Our Members
For the Muskegon Area Rental Association and our members, this achievement underscores the region’s strong growth potential and increasing appeal as a place to live, work, and invest. A cleaner lake and revitalized shoreline mean stronger community pride, higher tenant interest, and continued upward momentum in the local housing and rental market.
Muskegon’s Future Looks Bright
With its renewed waterfront, thriving local economy, and growing reputation as one of Michigan’s most promising lakeshore communities, Muskegon is stepping confidently into a new era. The city’s transformation is not only a testament to environmental recovery—but also a powerful sign of the opportunities that await those who believe in Muskegon’s potential.
