Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority Climate Action and Watershed Sustainability Plan

Southeast Michigan
CIS Advisory developed a Climate Action and Sustainability Plan for the Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority (HCMA), which spans nearly 25,000 acres of diverse ecosystems and watersheds across Southeast Michigan. This pivotal project involved creating a detailed greenhouse gas emissions inventory and devising sustainability strategies tailored to the landscape-scale resource needs of HCMA’s extensive park system.

Project Scope

  • Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions inventory

  • Set facility emissions baseline

  • Set near- and long-term emissions projections

  • Prioritize nature-based solutions for sustainable land management

  • Guide targeted reduction strategies

The Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority (HCMA) faces a range of challenges and opportunities as it strives to fulfill its mission of providing natural, educational, and recreational opportunities to the residents of Southeast Michigan. HCMA’s extensive park system is a critical resource for the region, offering essential ecological, recreational, and educational services to over 7 million visitors annually. However, HCMA is now confronting the growing pressures of climate change, which threaten both its natural resources and built infrastructure.

To safeguard these vital assets and ensure long-term sustainability, HCMA hired CIS to develop a comprehensive Carbon Emission Study. This study provides a detailed inventory of emissions across all aspects of HCMA’s operations, including its facilities, fleet, and natural land assets. This study serves as the foundation for setting emission reduction targets, identifying opportunities for nature-based carbon sequestration, and developing strategies to transition to sustainable land and resource management practices.

Results

Key initiatives included transitioning to an electric fleet, enhancing solar energy use at various facilities, and improving nature-based land management practices that simultaneously support carbon sequestration and catchment-level water infiltration. The plan is designed to engage the community through educational programs, promoting environmental stewardship among park visitors and local residents to support the long-term implementation of these sustainability measures. This ongoing effort exemplifies our commitment to integrating comprehensive climate action and ecosystem-service monitoring within regional park management and operations.

Partners

Huron – Clinton Metroparks, Michigan

Timeline

2024 – 2025

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