Congressman Dan Kildee: State of Michigan Should Reject Nestle Water Withdrawal Permit

Statement

Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-05) today expressed his "strong opposition" to Nestlé North America's (Nestlé) request for a permit to dramatically increase its groundwater withdrawals in Evart Township, Mich. In a letter sent to the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Congressman Kildee urged the state to reject the permit application because, according to scientific experts, "it would have damaging and negative impacts to the environment and wildlife in Michigan."

"I support Nestlé's desire to create jobs in Michigan, but not at the cost of damaging our environment and depleting our state's water resources," Congressman Kildee said. "In Michigan, tourism, hunting and fishing generate billions in annual economic activity and support hundreds of thousands of good-paying jobs in Michigan. Thus, putting our freshwater resources at jeopardy threatens our economy and way of life."

On Wednesday, hundreds of people attended a public hearing in Big Rapids, where most voiced their opposition to Nestlé's plan. Nestlé is seeking a state permit to increase the amount of water it takes out of the ground from 250 gallons per minute to 400 gallons per minute. According to Nestlé's own studies, the proposed water withdrawal will have a direct impact on surface wetlands due to the local geology.

"I am concerned that Nestlé is seeking to rush this proposal through without much public input. It is unfortunate that Nestlé is more concerned with corporate profits over protecting natural resources that support our state's economy, jobs and way of life," Congressman Kildee continued.

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