Drain Commissioner

Welcome to the Oceana County Drain Commissioner’s Office. Our purpose is to provide for the public health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of Oceana County through careful management of the waters and drainage infrastructure of the County. All actions taken through this office are governed by principles of environmental stewardship, cost-effectiveness, and long-term economic sustainability through proper planning and leadership.

Department Overview

Responsibilities of this department include flood control measures, the development review process, soil erosion control and water quality programs. An important function of the Drain Commissioner is the review of all newly platted subdivisions, site condos, private roads, and all new commercial and industrial sites, checking for adequate drainage for the prevention of future water and drainage problems.

This office also administers the Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control Program, Part 91, as established by the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 (P.A.) 451, as amended. This act is designed to keep the soils and sedimentation of the State of Michigan from being deposited into Michigan’s lakes and streams. Check our soil erosion control page for more information about obtaining permits for projects that may affect our county waterways and drains.

By Statute, the Drain Commissioner sits on all Lake Improvement Boards and is responsible for court-ordered lake levels if designated as the delegated authority by the County Board of Commissioners. They are also members of the Parks and Recreation Commission but can appoint a designee to represent them.

Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Requests

By adopted resolution, the office of the Oceana County Drain Commissioner follows the County’s FOIA procedures and guidelines. Learn more and access necessary forms on the FOIA Request page.