City negotiating MDEQ order; public meeting Dec. 10

HART — “The City of Hart is currently negotiating an Administrative Consent Order (ACO) with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) regarding water quality violations in the South Branch Pentwater River below the Hart Dam,” states a press release issued by City Manager Stant Rickard.

“The South Branch Pentwater River is classified as a ‘cold water (trout) stream’ where water temperatures must not exceed 68 degrees. Due to late summer heating, water temperature violations typically occur in July and August every year. The MDEQ views Russell Creek as a significant source of warm water, and their staff suggests that Russell Creek revert to a small stream which may improve water temperatures below the Hart Dam. Please attend this important meeting to learn more about potential changes to Russell Creek.”

The meeting is scheduled for Dec. 10 at 7 p.m. in the city hall community center. Submit written comments to: Hart City Hall, 407 State St., Hart, MI 49420 (231-873-2488) by Tuesday, Dec. 9.