The Michigan Clean Water Corps (MiCorps), a network of volunteer monitoring programs that collect and share surface water quality data statewide, is accepting enrollments for the 2026 Cooperative Lakes Monitoring Program (CLMP) season. Trainings in 2026 will be offered in person in Muskegon and online via Zoom. 

CLMP volunteers monitor water quality, invasive species, and habitat conditions in Michigan lakes. Volunteers receive detailed instructions, training, and equipment. The data they collect are added to the MiCorps Data Exchange, a public database that includes CLMP lake information dating back to 1974. 

Interested volunteers are encouraged to enroll early, as some program options have early spring enrollment deadlines. Other options allow enrollment into May and further into the summer. Details can be found on the CLMP Enrollment webpage.  

MiCorps is happy to announce two opportunities for CLMP volunteers to attend our official training program: 

• In-person in Muskegon on May 1-2, 2026. 

• Online from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. May 7, 2026. 

Registration for each training session is required, and there is no cost to attend. Training is required for new volunteers, and experienced volunteers are encouraged to attend. Anyone interested in learning more is invited to participate regardless of intent to enroll in a lake and conduct monitoring this year. 

Direct questions about the CLMP to Erick Elgin, Michigan State University Extension, at 218-340-5731 or [email protected]; or Tamara Lipsey, Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) Water Resources Division, at 517-342-4372 or [email protected]. 

MiCorps is sponsored by EGLE and administered in partnership with Michigan State University Extension, the Michigan Lakes and Streams Association, and the Huron River Watershed Council.  

To stay up to date on other EGLE news, follow us at Michigan.gov/MIEnvironment.