ANGLERS OF THE AUSABLE INC V DEPT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
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STATE OF MICHIGAN
COURT OF APPEALS
ANGLERS OF THE AUSABLE, INC., MAYER
FAMILY INVESTMENTS, L.L.C., and NANCY
A. FORCIER TRUST,
FOR PUBLICATION
March 31, 2009
9:10 a.m.
Plaintiffs-Appellees,
v
No. 279301
Otsego Circuit Court
LC No. 06-011697-CE
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY and DIRECTOR OF THE
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY,
Defendants-Appellants,
Advance Sheets Version
and
MERIT ENERGY COMPANY,
Defendant-Appellee.
ANGLERS OF THE AUSABLE, INC., and
MAYER FAMILY INVESTMENTS, L.L.C.,
Plaintiffs-Appellees/CrossAppellants,
and
NANCY A. FORCIER TRUST,
Plaintiff-Appellee,
v
No. 279306
Otsego Circuit Court
LC No. 06-011697-CE
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY and DIRECTOR OF THE
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY,
-1-
Defendants-Appellees,
and
MERIT ENERGY COMPANY,
Defendant-Appellant/CrossAppellee.
ANGLERS OF THE AUSABLE, INC., MAYER
FAMILY INVESTMENTS, L.L.C., and NANCY
A. FORCIER TRUST,
Plaintiffs-Appellees,
v
No. 280265
Otsego Circuit Court
LC No. 06-011697-CE
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY and DIRECTOR OF THE
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY,
Defendants-Appellees,
and
MERIT ENERGY COMPANY,
Defendant-Appellant.
ANGLERS OF THE AUSABLE, INC., MAYER
FAMILY INVESTMENTS, L.L.C., and NANCY
A. FORCIER TRUST,
Plaintiffs-Appellees,
v
No. 280266
Otsego Circuit Court
LC No. 06-011697-CE
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY and DIRECTOR OF THE
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY,
-2-
Defendants-Appellants,
and
MERIT ENERGY COMPANY,
Defendant-Appellee.
Before: Murray, P.J., and Markey and Wilder, JJ.
MURRAY, P.J.
In these consolidated appeals, defendants, the Department of Environmental Quality and
the Director of the Department of Environmental Quality (collectively the DEQ), and Merit
Energy Company, appeal as of right the trial court’s June 25, 2007, opinion and final order
granting in part plaintiffs’ motion for clarification and modification of the court’s prior order of
injunction. Plaintiffs Anglers of the AuSable, Inc., and Mayer Family Investments, L.L.C.,
cross-appeal that same order. We reverse that order to the extent it concludes that the DEQ’s
easement failed to convey riparian rights to Merit Energy, and we reverse the trial court’s
decision not to dismiss the DEQ. In all other respects we affirm that order. Additionally,
defendants appeal as of right the trial court’s order awarding plaintiffs fees and costs. We
reverse that order insofar as it pertains to the DEQ and to the extent that it awards costs for (1)
James Janiczek’s transcript under the Revised Judicature Act (RJA), MCL 600.2401 et seq., and
(2) “other costs” under the Michigan Environmental Protection Act (MEPA), MCL 324.1701 et
seq. In all other respects, we affirm that order.
I. Background
This case arises out of Merit Energy’s proposed plan to treat a plume of contaminated
groundwater, located in the Manistee watershed, and discharge that treated water into the
AuSable River water system.
In 2004, Merit Energy purchased the Hayes 22 Central Production Facility (CPF) located
in Hayes Township, Otsego County, Michigan, from Shell Western Exploration and Production,
Inc. Pursuant to the transfer agreement with Shell, Merit Energy entered into a settlement
agreement with the DEQ to treat the plume, which originated from the CPF. Although spanning
an area of 60 acres, the exact size of the plume, which continues to expand, is unknown. Among
the contaminants in the plume are benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes (BTEX) and
chlorides contained in brine. The plume has already contaminated two residential drinking wells
and may contaminate other residential wells as it continues to expand.
-3-
After acquiring the CPF, Merit Energy evaluated a number of options to treat the plume,
ultimately deeming air stripping—a process forcing a stream of air through water causing
hydrocarbons (i.e., the BTEX) to evaporate—the most effective option.1 Regarding disposal of
treated water, Merit Energy determined that discharge into a waterway would be the most
prudent alternative and selected Kolke Creek as the best outlet.2
Kolke Creek forms the headwater system for the AuSable River watershed. Groundwater
feeds this creek, which originates in a wetland system owned by the Michigan Department of
Natural Resources (DNR). From the wetland system, the creek flows past four beaver dams then
under a driveway owned by plaintiff Nancy A. Forcier Trust (Forcier) and into Lynn Lake. Both
Kolke Creek and Lynn Lake form an oligotrophic system, i.e., an ecosystem with low nutrient
content and resultant high degree of clarity.3 While Mayer is the only riparian owner along Lynn
Lake, members of Anglers use this lake for recreational purposes.4
In 2004, the DEQ approved Merit Energy’s corrective action plan, which called for
pumping the contaminated groundwater from the plume to the CPF for iron and air stripper
treatment. In addition, the DEQ issued a general permit and certificate of coverage (COC)
allowing discharge of treated water from the air stripper system into the wetland area flowing
into Kolke Creek.5 Accordingly, Merit Energy constructed a pipeline from the CPF to the
wetland system. The pipeline spans 1.3 miles and traverses nearly one-half mile of state-owned
land. Merit Energy obtained an easement from the DNR for the construction over state land.
Although the COC permits Merit Energy to discharge 800 gallons of treated water a minute into
Kolke Creek, the plan provides for a discharge of only 700 gallons a minute, at which rate it was
estimated the plume would be fully treated in 10 years. The pipeline was constructed in late
2005 or 2006. However, the remainder of the corrective action plan has not been implemented.
1
Merit Energy also considered using infiltration basins (shallow underground basins permitting
absorption of treated water into soil) and injection wells (a process by which contaminated
groundwater is exchanged with treated water), but rejected these options because complications,
including increased plume size, may ensue. In ultimately settling on air stripping, Merit Energy
worked closely with the DEQ to find a cost-effective procedure that would satisfy DEQ
regulations. The DEQ approved the air stripping, and that decision was at issue in the
administrative appeal. See note 6 of this opinion.
2
Although Merit Energy examined Frenchman’s Creek, Lake Tecon, and the Manistee River as
alternative discharge outlets, Merit Energy concluded that Kolke Creek was the best option
because the others contained access problems and were farther from the plume.
3
The AuSable River is a designated Blue Ribbon trout stream, and the evidence showed that
Kolke Creek provides optimal spawning conditions for native brook trout.
4
Janney Simpson of plaintiff Mayer Family Investments testified that her family has used this
water system since 1916, and that she and her family currently use Lynn Lake for fishing,
swimming, rowing, kayaking, and canoeing and that they also fish near the inlet of Kolke Creek.
5
Specifically, the water was to be discharged into an underground catch basin where it would
bubble up into a riprap and “sheet flow” down into the wetland area.
-4-
When a hearing referee dismissed plaintiffs’ administrative challenge to the COC in
September 2005, plaintiffs filed suit in the Otsego Circuit Court, petitioning for review of that
decision and alleging both common-law water rights violations and statutory violations under the
Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act (NREPA), MCL 324.101 et seq., including
MEPA. The trial court separated plaintiffs’ petition regarding the contested case hearing and
remanded that matter for review by the DEQ director.6
Following a bench trial regarding plaintiffs’ other claims, the trial court issued an opinion
and order on May 29, 2007, enjoining Merit Energy from discharging any treated water into the
Kolke Creek water system. Specifically, after determining that it had proper subject-matter
jurisdiction, the court concluded that the proposed discharge would constitute an unreasonable
use of riparian rights, which the DNR’s easement failed to convey to Merit Energy, as well as a
MEPA violation. The court noted, however, that should Merit Energy obtain an easement
granting riparian rights, an evidentiary hearing would commence if the parties were unable to
agree on reasonable use. Plaintiffs moved for clarification and modification of this order, and
the court entered an order of clarification and modification on June 25, 2007, indicating that no
bar exists for the artificial use of a watercourse for the benefit of a parcel outside a watershed,
the DNR may convey riparian rights by easement to Merit Energy, and the proposed discharge
was unreasonable. The court also modified the May 29, 2007, order to be the final order in this
case.
On August 8, 2007, the court awarded plaintiffs fees and costs for their expert witnesses
under MCL 600.2164 of the RJA or, alternatively, under MEPA in the interests of justice. In
addition, the court awarded “other costs” requested by plaintiffs exclusively under MEPA.
II. Analysis
A. Subject-Matter Jurisdiction
Defendants first argue that the pre-enforcement review provision of part 201, MCL
324.20101 et seq., of the NREPA deprived the trial court of subject-matter jurisdiction over
plaintiffs’ MEPA claim. We disagree. This Court reviews de novo both the question of subjectmatter jurisdiction and application of the NREPA, but reviews a trial court’s factual findings for
clear error. In re Petition by Wayne Co Treasurer, 478 Mich 1, 14; 732 NW2d 458 (2007);
Michigan Bear Hunters Ass’n v Natural Resources Comm, 277 Mich App 512, 526; 746 NW2d
320 (2008); Preserve the Dunes, Inc v Dep’t of Environmental Quality (On Remand), 264 Mich
App 257, 259; 690 NW2d 487 (2004) (Preserve the Dunes II).
6
The director affirmed the hearing referee’s decision, which, upon plaintiffs’ subsequent appeal,
the circuit court reversed. This Court denied defendants’ delayed application for leave to appeal
the circuit court’s decision. Anglers of the AuSable, Inc v Dep’t of Environmental Quality,
unpublished order of the Court of Appeals, entered September 24, 2008 (Docket No. 284315).
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The pre-enforcement review provision of part 201 provides, in relevant part: “A state
court does not have jurisdiction to review challenges to a response activity selected or approved
by the department under this part or to review an administrative order issued under this part in
any action . . . .” MCL 324.20137(4) (emphasis supplied).7 The evidence established that the
DEQ’s approval of Merit Energy’s corrective action plan fell under part 615, not part 201. Part
615 of the NREPA regulates oil and gas well facilities and provides the DEQ with authority over
matters relating to unreasonable damage to groundwater resulting from the use of such facilities.
See MCL 324.61501(q)(i)(B), MCL 324.61503, and MCL 324.61505. Indeed, DEQ employees
Ricky Henderson and Judith Woodcock, who reviewed and approved the corrective action plan,
testified that the plan was specifically “approved by the department under” part 615.
Defendants, however, contend that the pre-enforcement bar is applicable because the
corrective action plan constitutes a “response activity” under part 201. For several reasons, this
argument is not persuasive. First, as noted above, the DEQ did not select or approve the
corrective action plan under part 201, but instead specifically cited part 615. Second, part 201
defines a “[r]esponse activity” as the
evaluation, interim response activity, remedial action, demolition, or the taking of
other actions necessary to protect the public health, safety, or welfare, or the
environment or the natural resources. Response activity also includes health
assessments or health effect studies carried out under the supervision, or with the
approval of, the department of public health and enforcement actions related to
any response activity. [MCL 324.20101(1)(ee).]
Here, even though the corrective action plan referenced part 201 to establish “risk based
cleanup goals for the site,” it is not clear that such guidance constituted a “response activity”
under part 201. For starters, the DEQ expressly approved a “Corrective Action Plan,” which is
specifically referenced in part 615, and to which part 201 makes no reference. Rather, part 201
provides for a “[r]emedial action plan,” which is “a work plan for performing remedial action
under this part.” MCL 324.20101(1)(dd) (emphasis supplied). Moreover, that administrative
rules promulgated under part 615 require well cleanup in accordance with all applicable state
laws and regulations pertaining to losses of oil and gas is insufficient to show that part 615
incorporates part 201. See Mich Admin Code, R 324.1006. Indeed, neither part 615 nor rules
promulgated pursuant to that part make any reference to part 201. Furthermore, it is part 615 of
the NREPA that deals specifically with oil and gas waste—the contamination at issue in this
case.8 Therefore, given that part 201 expressly limits jurisdiction only where a response activity
7
While MCL 324.20137(4)(a)-(e) contains several exceptions to this bar on pre-enforcement
review, the parties raise no issue regarding these exceptions.
8
Part 615 defines “[u]nderground waste,” in part, as: “Unreasonable damage to underground
fresh . . . waters . . . from operations for the . . . handling of oil or gas,” MCL
324.61501(q)(i)(B), and defines “[s]urface waste,” in part, as: “The unnecessary or excessive
surface loss or destruction without beneficial use, however caused, of gas, oil, or other product,
but including the loss or destruction . . . resulting from . . . seepage [or] leakage . . . especially a
(continued…)
-6-
is approved “under this part,” MCL 324.20137(4), the bar of part 201 does not apply to this case
where the corrective action plan was not a “response activity” and was approved by the DEQ
under part 615.
In furtherance of their argument that the preenforcement review provision of part 201
applies, defendants rely on Genesco, Inc v Dep’t of Environmental Quality, 250 Mich App 45,
53; 645 NW2d 319 (2002), contending that because parts 201 and 615 both have the same
general purpose of protecting the environment, they must be construed in pari materia.
Genesco, however, is not instructive on this issue.
In Genesco, the DEQ approved a remedial action plan under part 201. The plaintiff,
which operated a leather tannery adjacent to a contaminated lake, claimed that because the
DEQ’s remediation plan under part 201 violated part 17 (i.e., MEPA), the pre-enforcement
review provision of part 201 was inapplicable. Id. at 47-49. This Court affirmed the trial court’s
conclusion that part 201 deprived the court of subject-matter jurisdiction and held that “claims
under part 17 may not be brought where the underlying controversy is over a ‘response activity’
as defined in part 201.” Id. at 53. In arriving at this conclusion the Court explained that “parts
17 and 201 must be read in pari materia because they both have the same general purpose of
protecting the environment . . . and must be read in the context of the entire [NREPA] so as to
produce an harmonious whole” lest pre-enforcement litigation frustrate the DEQ’s attempt to
clean contaminated sites. Id.
Here, we have already concluded that plaintiffs’ challenge was in no way predicated on
part 201. Thus, in contrast to Genesco, the parts of the NREPA to be construed in pari materia
are parts 17 (MEPA) and 615. Unlike part 201, however, part 615 contains no bar to subjectmatter jurisdiction. Thus, application of Genesco does not deprive the circuit court of subjectmatter jurisdiction.
While we are cognizant of defendants’ argument that this conclusion may allow preenforcement litigation that could potentially delay future cleanup efforts of contaminated sites
approved under part 615, the plain language of part 201 unambiguously limits subject-matter
jurisdiction to plans approved “under this part.” MCL 324.20137(4). Thus, even were we to
construe parts 201 and 615 in pari materia, we would conclude that the pre-enforcement bar is
inapplicable here. Indeed, where “the statute’s language is clear and unambiguous, we assume
that the Legislature intended its plain meaning, and we enforce the statute as written.” South
Haven v Van Buren Co Bd of Comm’rs, 478 Mich 518, 528; 734 NW2d 533 (2007) (quotation
marks and citation omitted). In light of this, the proper forum for resolution of defendants’
concern is the Legislature, rather than this Court. Therefore, there was no bar to the circuit
court’s subject-matter jurisdiction in this case.9
(…continued)
loss or destruction . . . from inefficient storage or handling of oil,” MCL 324.61504(q)(ii)(A).
9
Defendants point out that because the DEQ used the spill clean-up criteria and definition of
petroleum in part 201 in its administration of part 615, the corrective action plan constituted a
(continued…)
-7-
We also disagree with defendants’ argument that because part 615 confers exclusive
jurisdiction on the Ingham Circuit Court to hear this case, plaintiffs brought suit in the wrong
forum. See MCL 324.61517(2). As a point of fact, plaintiffs did not bring suit under part 615.
Rather, plaintiffs responded that the pre-enforcement provision of part 201 was inapplicable
because the DEQ approved Merit Energy’s plan under part 615. In other words, plaintiffs’
reliance on part 615 does not underlie and was not used as a basis for a cause of action in this
case, but rather is asserted in a defensive posture to defendants’ argument that part 201 bars
subject-matter jurisdiction. Jurisdiction was proper in the Otsego Circuit Court. MCL
324.1701(1).
B. The DEQ’s Administrative Action
We do, however, agree with the DEQ’s contention that because its review of Merit
Energy’s corrective action plan and issuance of the COC constituted an administrative decision,
it did not violate MEPA. “[W]e review de novo the proper application of MEPA. But we will
not overturn a trial court’s findings of fact unless they are clearly erroneous.” Preserve the
Dunes II, supra at 259 (citations omitted).
“MEPA provides a cause of action for declaratory and other equitable relief for conduct
that is likely to result in the pollution, impairment, or destruction of Michigan’s natural
resources” and provides for immediate judicial review of allegedly harmful conduct. Preserve
the Dunes, Inc v Dep’t of Environmental Quality, 471 Mich 508, 512; 684 NW2d 847 (2004)
(Preserve the Dunes I); MCL 324.1701(2) and MCL 324.1703(1). Regarding intervention in
permit proceedings, MEPA “requires a potential intervenor to file a pleading asserting that the
proceeding or action for judicial review involves conduct that has violated, or is likely to violate,
MEPA.” Preserve the Dunes I, supra at 521 (emphasis supplied); MCL 324.1705(1). However,
“[w]here a defendant’s conduct itself does not offend MEPA, no MEPA violation exists.”
Preserve the Dunes I, supra at 519. Because plaintiffs challenged the DEQ’s approval of the
corrective action plan, their challenge pertained to an administrative decision rather than
conduct. However, “[a]n improper administrative decision, standing alone, does not harm the
environment.” Id. Indeed, it is the actual discharge of treated water into Kolke Creek and Lynn
Lake that plaintiffs assert would harm the environment. Thus, MEPA provides no basis for
judicial review of this agency decision. “To hold otherwise would broaden by judicial fiat the
(…continued)
“response activity” under part 201. However, that the DEQ did not require Merit Energy to
conduct any interim response activities or feasibility studies as required by regulations
promulgated pursuant to part 201 undercuts this point. See MCL 324.20114(1)(h) and Mich
Admin Code, R 299.5526(1)(h) and (n). Additionally, defendants contend that the transfer
settlement agreement demonstrates that the proposed remediation plan constituted a “response
activity.” However, a fair reading of the transfer settlement agreement in context does not
support this conclusion. Indeed, the transfer settlement agreement expressly provides: “Both
parties agree under part 615, the Agreement set forth herein is necessary to prevent waste, to
alleviate pollution, impairment, and the destruction of the State of Michigan’s natural resources.”
-8-
scope of MEPA and create a cause of action that has no basis in MEPA’s language or structure.”
Id. at 524. Consequently, the court erred by failing to dismiss the DEQ from this action.10
C. The Easement
Defendants next argue that the trial court erred by finding that the easement failed to
adequately specify the right to discharge treated water. “The extent of a party’s rights under an
easement is a question of fact, and a trial court’s determination of those facts is reviewed for
clear error.” Blackhawk Dev Corp v Village of Dexter, 473 Mich 33, 40; 700 NW2d 364 (2005).
We hold that the trial court erred by ruling that the easement did not allow Merit Energy to
discharge the water into the watershed.
“[T]he use of an easement must be confined strictly to the purposes for which it was
granted or reserved.” Id. at 41 (quotation marks and citation omitted). Not surprisingly, these
purposes are determined by the text of the easement. Little v Kin, 468 Mich 699, 700; 664
NW2d 749 (2003) (Little II). “Where the language of a legal instrument is plain and
unambiguous, it is to be enforced as written and no further inquiry is permitted. If the text of the
easement is ambiguous, extrinsic evidence may be considered by the trial court in order to
determine the scope of the easement.” Id. (citation omitted).11
The easement in this case expressly provided Merit Energy the “right to place, construct,
operate, repair, and maintain” the pipeline over the state-owned land at issue. The term
“operate” clearly and unambiguously refers to the operation of the pipeline that will discharge
treated water into Kolke Creek. Further supporting this plain meaning is the easement’s own
requirement that Merit Energy notify the DNR of the release of any toxic or hazardous substance
resulting from operation of the pipeline. Additionally, attached to the easement is a condition
requiring Merit Energy to submit “operating instructions” requiring visual inspection of the
water line and discharge point on a regular basis. Thus, the term “operate” clearly encompasses
the discharge of treated water. Further, plaintiffs are incorrect that the easement only permitted
operation of the pipeline to the riprap area above the wetland. On the contrary, the reference
diagram attached to the easement clearly indicates discharge flowing into Kolke Creek.
10
Plaintiffs contend that the DEQ was a proper party because the COC gave Merit Energy
riparian or property rights to discharge treated water into Kolke Creek that would harm the
environment. However, the COC merely authorizes the discharge of water and makes no
reference to a grant of property rights.
11
Although both defendants and the trial court cited this Court’s opinion in Little v Kin, 249
Mich App 502, 511; 644 NW2d 375 (2002) (Little I), aff’d 468 Mich 699 (2003), in support of
the proposition that “the intent of the plattors should be determined with reference to the
language used in connection with the facts and circumstances existing at the time of the grant” to
determine the scope of an easement, our Supreme Court expressly rejected this approach, finding
it “clearly inconsistent with the well-established principles of legal interpretation . . . [and] thus
incorrect.” Little II, supra at 700 n 2.
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Therefore, the trial court erred by concluding that the easement failed to grant Merit Energy the
right to discharge treated water into Kolke Creek.
We also reject plaintiffs’ contention on cross-appeal that because Merit Energy’s land is
nonriparian, the trial court erred by ruling that Merit Energy could lawfully obtain an easement.
This Court reviews the scope and application of common-law claims, such as the application of
riparian law, de novo, but reviews a trial court’s factual findings in a bench trial for clear error.
Michigan Citizens for Water Conservation v Nestlé Waters North America Inc, 269 Mich App
25, 53; 709 NW2d 174 (2005), aff’d in part, rev’d in part, and remanded on other grounds 479
Mich 280 (2007); Walters v Snyder, 239 Mich App 453, 456; 608 NW2d 97 (2000).
“[W]hile full riparian rights and ownership may not be severed from riparian land and
transferred to nonriparian backlot owners, Michigan law clearly allows the original owner of
riparian property to grant an easement to backlot owners to enjoy certain rights that are
traditionally regarded as exclusively riparian.” Little v Kin, 249 Mich App 502, 504-505; 644
NW2d 375 (2002) (Little I), aff’d 468 Mich 699 (2003). Traditionally, riparian owners12 are
permitted to drain their land into an adjoining watercourse, Saginaw Co v McKillop, 203 Mich
46, 52; 168 NW 922 (1918), and rights granted to nonriparians by easement are not limited to
access or ingress and egress, Dyball v Lennox, 260 Mich App 698, 706; 680 NW2d 522 (2004),
citing Little I, supra at 514-516. Thus, the DNR, as a riparian owner, could lawfully convey the
easement at issue to Merit Energy.
While plaintiffs maintain that the grant was apart from the land because it pertained to
water originating on nonriparian land, this argument confuses the right at issue, i.e., the DNR’s
right to discharge water into a watercourse. This right is inherently riparian and therefore
connected to, rather than apart from, the land. McKillop, supra at 52. It is this riparian right that
was granted by easement. Therefore, plaintiffs’ argument does not hold water.13
D. Common-Law Claims
As an initial matter, defendants claim that the court erred by finding that the proposed
discharge would affect plaintiffs’ property rights by affecting their use of Kolke Creek and Lynn
Lake.14 We disagree. This Court reviews the scope and application of common-law claims de
12
“Land which includes or is bounded by a natural watercourse is defined as riparian.” Thies v
Howland, 424 Mich 282, 287-288; 380 NW2d 463 (1985).
13
Although plaintiffs call attention to Alburger v Philadelphia Electric Co, 112 Pa Commw 441,
445; 535 A2d 729 (1988), that case pertained to a riparian owner’s right to discharge into a
stream water not originating from riparian land. In contrast, the water in this case would be
discharged into an area feeding a watercourse that originated exclusively on riparian land.
14
We note that, contrary to defendants’ assertion, Mayer and Forcier, as members of Anglers,
had standing as individual plaintiffs. Nat’l Wildlife Federation v Cleveland Cliffs Iron Co, 471
Mich 608, 629; 684 NW2d 800 (2004).
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novo, but reviews a trial court’s factual findings in a bench trial for clear error. Nestlé, supra at
53; Walters, supra at 456.
“Riparian rights are derived from and are dependent on ownership of ‘land’ which abuts a
natural body of water; thus, they constitute part of the property possessed by riparian landowners
and become their property rights.” Hess v West Bloomfield Twp, 439 Mich 550, 562; 486 NW2d
628 (1992). “‘[A]ll the riparian proprietors have an equal or common right to use the water, but
each must exercise his rights in a reasonable manner and to a reasonable extent, so as not to
interfere unnecessarily with the corresponding rights of others.’” Square Lake Hills Condo Ass’n
v Bloomfield Twp, 437 Mich 310, 337 n 9; 471 NW2d 321 (1991) (Levin, J., dissenting), quoting
23 Michigan Law & Practice, Waters and Watercourses, § 2, p 262.
Merit Energy proposes to use this water system to discharge treated water. The trial court
found that the following would result as a consequence of Merit Energy’s use: increased
sedimentation, phosphorus levels, and erosion into Lynn Lake; significant flooding along Kolke
Creek; aesthetic and economic impairment of Kolke Creek; overall drop in water quality and
increase in turbidity;15 and harm to aquatic life. The record supports these findings. In light of
the effects of the proposed discharge, Merit Energy’s use of the water system would necessarily
interfere with plaintiffs’ use, thereby affecting their riparian rights. Indeed, our Supreme Court
has long held that any use that “materially . . . adulterates the water” may impair riparian rights
“for the ordinary purposes of life.” People v Hulbert, 131 Mich 156, 168-169; 91 NW 211
(1902) (quotation marks and citations omitted). Moreover, although defendants assert that
diminution in water quality alone is not actionable, plaintiffs’ alleged injury in fact was sufficient
to support a cause of action where they “aver[red] that they use[d] the affected area and are
persons for whom the aesthetic and recreational values of the area will be lessened by the
challenged activity.” Nat’l Wildlife Federation v Cleveland Cliffs Iron Co, 471 Mich 608, 629;
684 NW2d 800 (2004) (quotation marks and citations omitted).
Defendants also contend that plaintiffs cannot claim a property right in lands that have
been traditionally flooded as a result of the Lake Tecon impoundment above the discharge site.
However, the only authority defendants cite in support of this proposition does not address this
specific point. See Burt v Munger, 314 Mich 659; 23 NW2d 117 (1946); Hyatt v Albro, 121
Mich 638; 80 NW 641 (1899). In any event, the proposed discharge would have a qualitatively
different effect on Kolke Creek than any traditional flooding. Indeed, plaintiffs’ expert, Dr.
Christopher Grobbel, testified that previous flooding was a natural event of short-term duration,
whereas the proposed discharge would inundate the area for a period of many years. Thus,
defendants’ argument fails.
On cross-appeal, plaintiffs argue that the trial court should have applied surface water law
because the proposed discharge does not originate on the DNR’s land. We disagree. The
characterization of water as a watercourse or surface water governs a party’s right to discharge
15
Turbidity is a measurement of cloudiness in the water caused by suspended particles.
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water into a water system. Kernen v Homestead Dev Co, 232 Mich App 503, 511-512; 591
NW2d 369 (1998).16 Here, the corrective action plan calls for the treated water to be discharged
into the wetland system that flows into Kolke Creek. The wetland system and Kolke Creek
originate solely on DNR property. It is undisputed that Kolke Creek is classified as a
watercourse before flowing onto plaintiffs’ land. Thus, regardless of whether the treated water is
surface water at the discharge point, it is no longer surface water by the time it reaches plaintiff’s
land because surface waters “are lost by . . . reaching some definite watercourse or substantial
body of water into which they flow.” Id. at 511 n 7. Therefore, the trial court correctly deemed
surface water law inapplicable.
Plaintiffs argue, alternatively, that the trial court erroneously applied the reasonable use
balancing test. However, this Court has determined that “under Michigan’s riparian authorities,
water disputes between riparian proprietors are resolved by a reasonable use test that balances
competing water uses to determine whether one riparian proprietor’s water use, which interferes
with another’s use, is unreasonable under the circumstances.” Nestlé, supra at 58. “Under the
reasonable use doctrine, a riparian owner may make any and all reasonable uses of the water, as
long [as he does] not unreasonably interfere with the other riparian owners’ opportunity for
reasonable use.” Id. at 55 (quotation marks and citation omitted). Here, although Merit Energy
is not a riparian proprietor, its proposed discharge specifically utilizes the rights granted by the
DNR’s easement. Since the rights the DNR granted by easement are riparian, this dispute should
be analyzed under the law applicable to disputes between riparian proprietors.
It is plaintiffs’ contention that the reasonable use balancing test enunciated in Nestlé is
inapplicable because Nestlé was a groundwater case. Although plaintiffs are correct that Nestlé
applied the reasonable use balancing test to a groundwater claim, the test is not limited to
groundwater cases. On the contrary, after reviewing the origin and development of water law in
Michigan since the 19th Century, id., citing Dumont v Kellogg, 29 Mich 420, 422 (1874), Nestlé
specifically concluded, before addressing any groundwater claim, that “water disputes between
riparian proprietors are resolved by a reasonable use test,” Nestlé, supra at 58.
Plaintiffs note that Nestlé is distinguishable because the groundwater at issue in Nestlé
had a hydraulic connection to the watercourse whereas Merit Energy’s proposal to discharge
treated water constitutes a use of riparian rights to benefit nonriparian (i.e., Merit Energy’s) land.
This contingency does not distinguish Nestlé, but instead is a factor in Nestlé’s reasonable use
balancing test. Id. at 72. Moreover, Nestlé relied on the Restatement of Torts, 2d, in applying
the reasonable use balancing test to the groundwater dispute, id. at 71 n 46, citing 4 Restatement
16
The characterization of water as a watercourse entitles a riparian owner to reasonable use of
that watercourse, but does not permit the riparian owner to pollute the water or to unreasonably
increase the flow to the extent that it floods another riparian owner’s property. Kernen supra at
511-512. In contrast, the characterization of water as surface water renders an increase in flow
by the owner of an upper estate a trespass because “the owner of a lower or servient estate must
receive the surface water from the upper or dominant estate in its natural flow.” Id. at 512
(quotation marks and citation omitted).
-12-
Torts, 2d, § 850A, p 220, and the factors set forth in that Restatement section pertain to the
reasonable use of water generally—i.e., without specific limitation to groundwater disputes.
Further, although Nestlé expressly adopted and applied the reasonable use balancing test to a
dispute between groundwater and riparian users, Nestlé identified this test as the one “first stated
in Dumont[.]” Nestlé, supra at 68. The Dumont test was not limited to groundwater cases.
Dumont, supra at 423-425. In light of this, it cannot be said that Nestlé ignored the doctrine of
stare decisis or that its explanation of the reasonable use balancing test constituted mere dictum.
Consequently, we conclude that because it was only the Nestlé Court’s application of the
reasonable use balancing test that pertained to a groundwater dispute, its explanation and
analysis of the reasonable use balancing test is instructive here.17 Therefore, the trial court
correctly concluded that the reasonable use balancing test applies.
Finally, we note Merit Energy’s contention that the trial court failed to determine the
volume of water to be discharged under the reasonable use balancing test. However, that finding
would have been premature given the trial court’s finding—albeit an erroneous one—that the
easement did not convey the right to discharge. In any event, the arguments and evidence
presented at trial focused on whether the proposed discharge was reasonable or whether
reasonable alternatives existed, and the trial court determined the reasonableness of the proposed
discharge. In addition, the trial court’s final order did not effectively overrule the interim order’s
enjoining of the proposed discharge or conclusion that further evidence could be submitted
concerning a lower discharge amount, as the only limiting language in the final order refers to
the court’s finding that the proposed discharge was unreasonable.
E. MEPA
Defendants’ principal argument under MEPA is that the trial court erred by finding a
prima facie violation of MEPA because it failed to apply part 31 (the water resources protection
act) of the NREPA, MCL 324.3101 et seq., as a pollution control standard. We disagree. “[W]e
review de novo the proper application of MEPA. But we will not overturn a trial court’s findings
of fact unless they are clearly erroneous.” Preserve the Dunes II, supra at 259 (citations
omitted).
To establish a prima facie violation of MEPA, a plaintiff must show that “the defendant
has or is likely to pollute, impair, or destroy the air, water, or other natural resources.” Nestlé,
supra at 88, citing MCL 324.1703(1) and Ray v Mason Co Drain Comm’r, 393 Mich 294, 309;
224 NW2d 883 (1975). “[I]n determining that a plaintiff has made out a prima facie MEPA
violation, the trial court may either (1) make detailed and specific findings that the defendant’s
17
Plaintiffs’ assertion that an “unreasonable use per se test” was applicable also fails in light of
the Nestlé Court’s treatment of that issue: “[I]n the context of riparian rights, prior courts have
determined that uses that did not benefit the riparian land were unreasonable per se . . . we
believe that such a per se rule is incompatible with modern use of the balancing test. Instead, we
hold that the location of the use is but one of the factors that should be considered in balancing
the relative interests.” Nestlé, supra at 72 n 49.
-13-
conduct has polluted, impaired, or destroyed, or is likely to pollute, impair, or destroy, the air,
water, or other natural resources, or (2) find that the defendant has violated an applicable
pollution control standard.” Nestlé, supra at 89 (citations omitted; emphasis supplied). Once a
prima facie case is etablished, the burden shifts to the defendant, who may rebut the prima facie
case with evidence to the contrary. Id.
As a preliminary matter, defendants argue that the standards for determining a prima
facie MEPA violation enunciated in Nestlé do not present “equally available methods” of
inquiry. Rather, defendants contend that a court may make detailed and specific factual findings
regarding a defendant’s conduct only if no applicable pollution control standard exists or if an
existing pollution control standard is deficient. Although a creative argument, we cannot square
it with the statute and caselaw.
MEPA does not contain specific standards or requirements concerning adverse
environmental impact. Nemeth v Abonmarche Dev, Inc, 457 Mich 16, 30; 576 NW2d 641
(1998). It does, however, set forth how a case is to proceed in the circuit court, starting off with
the plaintiff’s having to prove a prima facie case that the defendant’s conduct has polluted or will
likely pollute natural resources:
When the plaintiff in the action has made a prima facie showing that the
conduct of the defendant has polluted, impaired, or destroyed or is likely to
pollute, impair, or destroy the air, water, or other natural resources or the public
trust in these resources, the defendant may rebut the prima facie showing by the
submission of evidence to the contrary. The defendant may also show, by way of
an affirmative defense, that there is no feasible and prudent alternative to
defendant’s conduct and that his or her conduct is consistent with the promotion
of the public health, safety, and welfare in light of the state’s paramount concern
for the protection of its natural resources from pollution, impairment, or
destruction. Except as to the affirmative defense, the principles of burden of proof
and weight of the evidence generally applicable in civil actions in the circuit
courts apply to actions brought under this part. [MCL 324.1703(1).]
Courts are to consider this statute for guidance in crafting findings of fact, City of Jackson v
Thompson-McCully Co, LLC, 239 Mich App 482, 488; 608 NW2d 531 (2000), and the statute’s
focus is entirely on the defendant’s conduct relative to polluting, impairing, or destroying natural
resources. Consequently, and contrary to defendants’ argument, our courts have held that there
are two ways to prove a prima facie MEPA case, one of which is proving that the defendant’s
conduct violated a pollution control standard. See Nestlé, supra at 89; Preserve the Dunes I,
supra at 517 n 5 (noting that the defendant’s opportunity to rebut a prima facie case remains the
same “whether that violation has been established independently or by reference to another
statute’s pollution control standard” [emphasis supplied]).
Defendant places great emphasis on MCL 324.1701(2), which provides:
In granting relief provided by subsection (1), if there is a standard for
pollution or for an antipollution device or procedure, fixed by rule or otherwise,
-14-
by the state or an instrumentality, agency, or political subdivision of the state, the
court may:
(a) Determine the validity, applicability, and reasonableness of the
standard.
(b) If a court finds a standard to be deficient, direct the adoption of a
standard approved and specified by the court. [Emphasis supplied.]
The plain language of this section applies at the point when a circuit court is “granting relief” as
authorized by subsection 1,18 and thus applies after a violation of MEPA has been found.
Black’s Law Dictionary (7th ed); ADVO-Systems, Inc v Dep’t of Treasury, 186 Mich App 419,
424; 465 NW2d 349 (1990) (dictionaries are useful tools for determining the common
understanding of undefined statutory terms). Through this section, the Legislature has provided
courts with the explicit authority to fashion relief consistent with existing pollution control
standards, or to adopt new standards if the existing ones are found invalid, inapplicable, or
unreasonable.19 But the Legislature has created no requirement that a prima facie case must
include a trial court analysis and finding about any applicable pollution control standard. Indeed,
as already discussed, MCL 324.1703(1) contains no such requirement, and its general provisions
on standards of proof indicate otherwise. See Nemeth, supra at 30 (observing that MEPA creates
an environmental common law that “does not impose specific requirements or standards; instead,
it provides for de novo review in Michigan courts, allowing those courts to determine any
adverse environmental effect and to take appropriate measures”). Thus, the only determinative
statutory requirement in evaluating a prima facie MEPA violation “is whether the defendant’s
conduct will, in fact, pollute, impair, or destroy a natural resource.” Preserve the Dunes I, supra
at 517 n 5.
And that is where defendants misconstrue the varying statements about pollution control
standards in Nemeth and its progeny. Determining whether a statute contains a pollution control
standard is relevant when the plaintiff has alleged, as a way to prove a prima facie case, that the
defendant’s conduct has, or will, violate a statute or regulation. At that point the court must
decide if the statute contains a pollution control standard, for if it does, the defendant’s violation
of the statute, by itself, can be used to satisfy the prima facie case standard. Nemeth, supra at 36;
Nestlé, supra at 89. If the statute does not contain a pollution control standard, as the trial court
concluded in this case, then a violation of the statute cannot alone establish a prima facie case.
Id. at 94. Hence, Nemeth does not require a trial court to determine whether statutes cited by
defendants contain pollution control standards, as Nemeth and the other decisions addressed the
18
Subsection 1, MCL 324.1701(1), allows a circuit court to grant declaratory and equitable relief
if the plaintiff proves that the defendant has violated MEPA.
19
Without such a legislative grant of authority, a court disregarding applicable statutory
requirements would be acting outside the realm of valid judicial authority. Miller v Riverwood
Recreation Ctr, Inc, 215 Mich App 561, 563; 546 NW2d 684 (1996).
-15-
need to decide if the statutes allegedly violated contained pollution control standards in order to
avoid using the violations as lone support for prima facie cases.
Here, plaintiffs attempted to prove a prima facie case with factual proof that defendants’
discharge of treated water into Kolke Creek will likely pollute, impair or destroy natural
resources in violation of parts 31, 301, and 303 of MEPA. As required by caselaw, see Nemeth,
supra at 35, the trial court determined that parts 301 and 303 did not contain pollution control
standards, but nonetheless properly utilized them, in part, in deciding whether defendants
violated MEPA. See Nestlé, supra at 92 n 69. The trial court made detailed findings of fact in
determining that defendants’ rate of discharging treated water would likely pollute or impair the
natural resource at issue, and that defendants therefore violated MEPA. That process is all that is
required by statute, MCL 324.1703(1), and caselaw. Nemeth, supra at 36-37; Ray, supra at 309310; Nestlé, supra at 88-89.20
Defendants argue, in the alternative, that the trial court substantively erred by relying on
the Portage factors and using parts 301 and 303 as pollution control standards in finding a prima
facie MEPA violation. This is incorrect. For starters, while the Portage factors are case specific,
Nemeth, supra at 35, the trial court did not exclusively rely on them in its analysis. On the
contrary, the court also examined parts 301 and 303, which the court acknowledged did not
contain pollution control standards, as well as relied on its own findings under the common-law
reasonable use factors in finding a prima facie violation. This is an appropriate use of both the
Portage factors and parts 301 and 303. Nestlé, supra at 92 n 69, 97. Indeed, the court ultimately
concluded that a review of all the factors “weigh[s] in favor of plaintiffs” and that it was “[f]or
this reason . . . that plaintiffs have established a prima facie MEPA violation.” Therefore,
defendants’ contention fails.
Finally, we disagree with defendants’ assertion that the trial court failed to articulate a
pollution control standard. “[T]he MEPA specifically authorizes a court to determine the
validity, reasonableness, and applicability of any standard for pollution or pollution control and
to specify a new or different pollution control standard if the agency’s standard falls short of the
substantive requirements of MEPA.” Nemeth, supra at 30 (quotation marks, citation, and
emphasis omitted). Here, the court made detailed and specific findings that the proposed
discharge would: significantly affect wildlife; cause increased flooding, sedimentation,
phosphorus levels, chloride levels, and erosion; and severely affect the water quality of the
system. Although the court failed to use the words “pollution control standard” in making its
findings, we do not find this flaw fatal. First of all, since the court found no pollution control
standard, it did not need to create a new one. Second, even statutes that articulate pollution
control standards need not contain the words “pollution control standard” to be considered as
20
That the trial court did not explicitly discuss why part 31 of the NREPA and part 4 of the
regulations did not contain pollution control standards is insignificant because the caselaw
requires only that the court utilize an “appropriate standard” when deciding the case and
fashioning relief, and that standard can be, as in this case, the detailed findings and conclusions
made by the court. Nemeth, supra at 35; Ray, supra at 309.
-16-
containing pollution control standards. Rather, determinative of whether statutes contain
pollution control standards is whether “the purposes are to protect natural resources or to prevent
pollution and environmental degradation . . . .” Nestlé, supra at 92 In this case, it is clear that
the purpose of the trial court’s findings and conclusion that Merit Energy’s specific discharge
proposal violated MEPA was to protect natural resources and prevent environmental
degradation. In other words, the court sufficiently articulated a pollution control standard by
holding that the discharge of 700 gallons a minute of treated water into Kolke Creek would likely
pollute and impair that watershed system.
Before moving on, however, we again note that the trial court’s interim order allows
Merit Energy to return to court with a different proposal, presumably one providing for a
discharge of less than the 700 gallons a minute that the court found violated MEPA. The trial
court will then have another opportunity to either make detailed findings of fact, or perhaps
explicitly create a new standard that sets a limit, if any, regarding the amount of treated water
that can lawfully be discharged into Kolke Creek.21
F. Evidentiary Claims
This brings us to defendants’ assertion that the trial court committed numerous
evidentiary errors. Specifically, defendants argue that the trial court erred by finding that the
proposed discharge would likely pollute, impair, or destroy natural resources because its decision
was based on the following inadmissible evidence: (1) article abstracts admitted as exhibit 83
and the testimony of plaintiff’s expert, Dr. Mark Luttenton based on this exhibit and (2) graphs
admitted as exhibits 67 and 135 and the stage discharge analysis of plaintiff’s expert, David
Hyndman, based on these exhibits. Also, defendants assert that the court improperly excluded
defense exhibits and defense expert testimony.
This Court reviews a trial court’s decision to admit evidence for an abuse of discretion.
Craig v Oakwood Hosp, 471 Mich 67, 76; 684 NW2d 296 (2004). “However, when the trial
court’s decision to admit evidence involves a preliminary question of law, the issue is reviewed
de novo, and admitting evidence that is inadmissible as a matter of law constitutes an abuse of
discretion.” Barnett v Hidalgo, 478 Mich 151, 159; 732 NW2d 472 (2007). A trial court abuses
its discretion when its decision is outside the range of reasonable and principled outcomes.
Maldonado v Ford Motor Co, 476 Mich 372, 388; 719 NW2d 809 (2006). We hold that the trial
court did not abuse its discretion in its evidentiary rulings or, if it did so, it was harmless error.
i. Exhibit 83 and Expert Analysis
Exhibit 83 consisted of article abstracts pertaining to the effects of chlorides on water
systems. Defendants maintain that this evidence was inadmissible hearsay. Defendants are
correct, as the article abstracts are out-of-court statements offered for their truth and do not fall
21
Neither party has cited a statute or regulation that places any limit on the amount of discharge,
if any, that is permitted in this situation.
-17-
within an established hearsay exception. MRE 801(c); Merrow v Bofferding, 458 Mich 617, 626;
581 NW2d 696 (1998). However, we conclude that any error was harmless as there is no
indication that the court relied on these abstracts in making its decision.22
Further, the inadmissibility of exhibit 83 did not preclude Luttenton’s testimony
concerning the effects of chlorides on aquatic invertebrates. Under MRE 703, the “facts or data
in the particular case upon which an expert bases an opinion or inference shall be in evidence.”
Therefore, a party must show that the “facts or data” upon which an expert relies is admissible
before an expert may render an opinion. People v Yost, 278 Mich App 341, 362-363; 749 NW2d
753 (2008). This presumes, however, that the “facts or data” refer to the facts of the case that
would support the expert’s opinion and do not include information or documentation pertaining
to the expert’s education concerning the topic.
Arguably, the abstracts upon which Luttenton relied pertained to his education on the
introduction of chlorides into water systems and their effect on aquatic invertebrates. In contrast,
the facts that support Luttenton’s opinion are the data concerning the actual chlorides the
proposed discharge would add to Kolke Creek and Lynn Lake. Exhibit 83 did not contain that
data, which defendants do not challenge. Thus, Luttenton’s opinion on this matter was properly
admitted. In any event, if the evidence was improperly admitted, any error would be harmless as
the court’s consideration of the effects on aquatic invertebrates was but one of many negative
effects supporting the injunction.
ii. Exhibits 67 and 135 and Expert Analysis
Hyndman testified that the proposed discharge would increase the water level and flow in
Lynn Lake and Kolke Creek. This stage discharge analysis was based on water flow
measurements made by Hyndman, Grobbel, and Robert Workman. The court admitted these
measurements as exhibits 67 and 135.
Defendants challenge the admission of these exhibits on the ground that they were based
on unreliable data. “[T]he trial court’s role as gatekeeper does not require it to search for
absolute truth, to admit only uncontested evidence, or to resolve genuine scientific disputes.”
Chapin v A & L Parts, Inc, 274 Mich App 122, 127; 732 NW2d 578 (2007) (Davis, J.). Rather,
the focus of the inquiry is whether the expert based his conclusions on a sound foundation. Id. at
139.
With respect to this inquiry, MRE 702 provides:
If the court determines that scientific, technical, or other specialized
knowledge will assist the trier of fact to understand the evidence or to determine a
22
While plaintiffs argue that the abstracts were admissible under MRE 707, that rule pertains to
the admissibility of statements in reliable treatises for impeachment purposes on crossexamination and is therefore not applicable here.
-18-
fact in issue, a witness qualified as an expert by knowledge, skill, experience,
training, or education may testify thereto in the form of an opinion or otherwise if
(1) the testimony is based on sufficient facts or data, (2) the testimony is the
product of reliable principles and methods, and (3) the witness has applied the
principles and methods reliably to the facts of the case.
Regarding exhibit 67, defendants assert that the data were unreliable because, with the
exception of one flow measurement, Hyndman relied on Grobbel’s measurements even though
Hyndman claimed his measurement procedure was more reliable than Grobbel’s and because
Hyndman’s and Grobbel’s measurements were taken inside culverts. We agree with the trial
court and hold that the trial court correctly ruled that defendants’ stated objections to the
procedures employed by Hyndman go more to the weight of his testimony than to the reliability,
and thus admissibility, of his testimony. Surman v Surman, 277 Mich App 287, 309-310; 745
NW2d 802 (2007).
We also reject defendants’ arguments for two additional reasons. First, while Hyndman
claimed that Grobbel used a different measurement procedure, he did not assert that his was
more reliable, and defendants fail to explain how the use of different procedures affected the
reliability of the measurements. Mudge v Macomb Co, 458 Mich 87, 105; 580 NW2d 845
(1998). Second, both Hyndman and Grobbel asserted that the ideal locations for measurements
in this system were on the upstream side of culverts. Thus, the stage discharge analysis was not
based on unreliable data.23
Concerning exhibit 135, defendants point out that Hyndman simply fashioned this exhibit
by adding and removing data points from exhibit 67. However, Hyndman explained that he only
removed one data point, which was an “outlier,” i.e., a data point that was not representative of
the relationship depicted in the exhibit. Additionally, disagreement between Grobbel and Susan
Baker, a defense expert, is relevant to the credibility and weight of each witness’s testimony, the
determination of which is within the province of the trial court. Ellsworth v Hotel Corp of
America, 236 Mich App 185, 194; 600 NW2d 129 (1999). Apparently, the court gave more
weight to Hyndman’s stage discharge analysis, and that was not an abuse of discretion. And any
error was harmless since Hyndman’s conclusion and the court’s ruling were not solely based on
the stage discharge analysis, but focused on additional factors that included the effect of the
proposed discharge on wildlife and water quality. People v Rodriquez (On Remand), 216 Mich
App 329, 332; 549 NW2d 359 (1996) (“The erroneous admission of evidence is harmless if it did
not prejudice the defendant.”).24
23
Defendants also challenge Hyndman’s failure to apply a standard deviation analysis.
However, Hyndman explained that this approach was not proper in evaluating the measurements
at issue. Thus, the trial court had discretion to accept or reject Hyndman’s evaluation.
24
Defendants also contend there was inadequate time to prepare for the introduction of these
exhibits since they were not disclosed until the day before trial. However, given that defendants
did not begin their case-in-chief until two weeks after exhibit 67 was entered and given that
(continued…)
-19-
iii. Exclusion of Defense Exhibits and Expert Testimony
Defendants’ last evidentiary argument is that the trial court erroneously excluded portions
of Baker’s testimony and exhibits supporting that testimony, as well as portions of Workman’s
surrebuttal testimony.
With respect to Baker, the court excluded a portion of exhibit XX, a North Carolina
storm manual, exhibit EE, which consisted of Baker’s drawings illustrating the evolutionary
stages of the Kolke Creek system, and Baker’s related testimony. These exclusions were not
improper. First, the only portion of exhibit XX excluded was the portion that Baker admitted she
did not use in her analysis. Thus, that evidence was not relevant and was therefore inadmissible.
MRE 402; Woodard v Custer, 476 Mich 545, 569; 719 NW2d 842 (2006). Second, concerning
exhibit EE, even if a proper foundation were laid, Baker’s analysis of this exhibit concerning
whether the system was no longer in an eroding state was not dispositive with regard to Baker’s
ultimate conclusion that the proposed discharge would not cause erosion. Indeed, Baker
considered the effects of vegetation, beaver dams, shear stress, tractive force, and permissible
velocity in reaching this conclusion. Thus, any error in excluding exhibit EE and testimony
pertaining to that exhibit did not prejudice defendants and was therefore harmless.25
Regarding Workman, defendants assert that the court improperly precluded Workman’s
surrebuttal testimony concerning analysis of Grobbel’s flow measurements incorporated into
exhibit 135. However, it does not appear that Workman was qualified to render such an opinion,
given that his expertise was in aquatic biology and his analysis of the flow measurements
pertained to aquatic wildlife and habitat rather than hydrology or hydrogeology, for which
Workman was offering surrebuttal testimony. Indeed, under MRE 702, an expert must be
qualified “by knowledge, skill, experience, training, or education” before rendering an opinion.
Craig, supra at 78. In light of this, the trial court did not abuse its discretion by precluding
Workman’s testimony on this issue.
G. Expert Fees and Costs
Merit Energy challenges the trial court’s award pursuant to the RJA and, alternatively,
MEPA for “other costs,” as well as transcript costs under “Category D”26 and the transcript cost
(…continued)
exhibit 135 was entered as rebuttal testimony and applied the same discharge analysis as exhibit
67, we conclude that there was no prejudice.
25
We note that, contrary to defendants’ assertion, the record reveals that the trial court admitted
exhibit TT in its entirety.
26
Each charge in plaintiffs’ expert invoices is itemized under one of four categories: “Category
T” for “Trial Matters,” referring to work done in preparation for trial testimony; “Category D”
for “Deposition Matters,” referring to time spent preparing for and attending depositions;
“Category C” for “Consultations,” referring to work involving meetings with plaintiffs’ attorneys
regarding strategy; and “Category NL” for “Non Lawsuit” matters, referring to work done on
matters before the lawsuit was filed or work done in review of matters not pertaining to the
lawsuit.
-20-
of James Janiczek.27 Merit Energy is correct in part. “[T]he award of taxable costs to the
prevailing party is within the trial court’s discretion.” Allard v State Farm Ins Co, 271 Mich
App 394, 403; 722 NW2d 268 (2006). “However, what constitutes costs is governed by statute,
and questions of statutory construction are reviewed de novo.” Nestlé, supra at 106 (citations
omitted).
The RJA provides the statutory authority for awards of costs and fees. J C Bldg Corp II v
Parkhurst Homes, Inc, 217 Mich App 421, 429; 552 NW2d 466 (1996).
“Under MCL
600.2405(2) [of the RJA], ‘costs’ include matters specially made taxable elsewhere in the
statutes or court rules.” Nestlé, supra at 107. Accordingly, plaintiffs sought costs under MCL
600.2164 (regarding recovery of costs for experts) and MCL 324.1703(3).
i. Costs and Fees under the RJA
Merit Energy initially challenges the trial court’s award of “other costs” under the RJA.
However, plaintiffs concede that costs and fees awarded under the “other costs” category are
only recoverable under MEPA through the RJA catch-all provision, MCL 600.2405(2).
Next, Merit Energy correctly argues that MCL 600.2543(2) and 600.2549 of the RJA do
not permit taxation of transcript costs. At the outset, we note that except for Janiczek’s
transcript, for which the court expressly awarded costs under the RJA, transcript costs fall under
plaintiffs’ “other costs” category. However, the RJA did not support an award for any transcript
costs. Indeed, plaintiffs did not acquire transcripts for the purpose of moving for a new trial or
for appeal as required by MCL 600.2543(2) (pertaining to recovery for trial transcripts costs).
Similarly, plaintiffs did not file with the trial court clerk any deposition transcript that was read
into evidence, as required by MCL 600.2549. Morrison v East Lansing, 255 Mich App 505,
522; 660 NW2d 395 (2003). Consequently, the RJA did not permit an award for any transcript
costs, including Janiczek’s.
Although Merit Energy also challenges the award for “Category D” costs and fees on this
same statutory basis, “Category D” contains no deposition transcript expense; rather, it “refers to
any [expert’s] work in preparation for any deposition and . . . attendance at any deposition.”
Thus, MCL 600.2549 is inapplicable to the review of the costs awarded for “Category D”
expenses.28
27
The DEQ also challenged the award of certain costs and fees. However, its dismissal from this
matter renders those challenges moot.
28
The DEQ raised additional arguments challenging the propriety of awards for “Category D”
and “Category T” costs and fees, but since the DEQ should have been dismissed from this case,
we decline to address them. See MCR 7.302(G)(4).
-21-
ii. “Other Costs” under MEPA
Merit Energy’s final contention is that MEPA did not support an award for plaintiffs’
“other costs.” Although subsection 1703(3) of MEPA contains a rather open-ended cost
provision stating: “Costs may be apportioned to the parties if the interests of justice require[,]”
this Court has held that because “the statutory authority for costs is found at MCL 600.2401 et
seq.[,] . . . the costs allowed under MEPA are the same as the costs allowed under the Revised
Judicature Act.” Nestlé, supra at 108. Thus, plaintiffs’ attempt to distinguish “taxable costs”
under the RJA from “costs” under MEPA is nothing more than a distinction without a difference.
Consequently, the trial court erred by awarding transcript costs included in the “other costs”
category as those costs were not proper under the RJA.
Additionally, we hold that the trial court erred by awarding the remainder of the “other
costs” category—including expenses for copy costs, fax costs, postage, UPS overnight delivery,
travel expenses, filing fees, transcripts, Westlaw research, and miscellaneous trial supplies—
because these costs amount to no more than attorney fees, which are not awardable under
MEPA. Nemeth, supra at 44. While plaintiffs assert that these costs represent expenses broader
than attorney fees, this argument fails to take into account that attorney fees encompass more
than just “work performed personally by members of the bar. “ Allard, supra at 404 (quotation
marks and citation omitted). Rather,
[t]he rule allowing an award of attorney fees has traditionally anticipated the
allowance of a fee sufficient to cover the office overhead of an attorney together
with a reasonable profit. The inclusion of . . . the expenses incurred[] reflects the
traditional understanding that attorney fees should be sufficient to recoup at least
a portion of overhead costs. Fixed overhead costs include such items as employee
wages, rent, equipment rental, and so forth. Thus, until a statute or a court rule
specifies otherwise, the attorney fees must take into account the work not only of
attorneys, but also of secretaries, messengers, paralegals, and others whose labor
contributes to the work product for which an attorney bills a client, and it must
also take account of other expenses and profit. [Id. at 404-405 (some emphasis in
original omitted; quotation marks and citations omitted).]
Here, the additional costs categorized as “other costs” (with the exception of the
transcript costs) constitute nothing more than office overhead and other expenses related to the
general practice of law. Thus, these “other costs” are best described as attorney fees, for which
MEPA does not expressly provide compensation. In light of this, the trial court abused its
discretion by awarding “other costs” under MEPA.
H. Conclusion
We reverse the trial court’s June 25, 2007, opinion and final order insofar as it holds that
the DEQ’s easement failed to convey riparian rights to Merit Energy, and we hold that the DEQ
should have been dismissed from this case. In all other respects we affirm that order. In
addition, we reverse the trial court’s order awarding costs and fees insofar as it pertains to the
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DEQ and to the extent that it awards costs for (1) Janiczek’s transcript under the RJA and (2)
“other costs” under MEPA. In all other respects, we affirm that order. No taxable costs pursuant
to MCR 7.219, a question of public policy involved.
/s/ Christopher M. Murray
/s/ Jane E. Markey
/s/ Kurtis T. Wilder
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