compact and Michigan

Something is "about to pop," but whether it's real water conservation or all symbolism has yet to be decided.

As Birkholz and Warren seek a balance that protects Michigan water while capitalizing on the economic potential of its abundance, the clock is ticking. There's a sense that the Great Lakes states and provinces should waste no time approving a compact that protects the lakes from dry states and regions that covet their water.

There's already been a delay. Michigan is one of the last of the eight Great Lakes states to take up the compact. Even more importantly, there is no contradiction between 'protecting Michigan water' and 'capitalizing on the economic potential of its abundance.' You won't have water to fulfill your economic potential if you waste it now -- the courts and Congress will see to that. Water conservation is key to Michigan and the other states 'capitalizing' on Great Lakes water.