Section 324.31519 - Order to limit dam operations; order to remove dam; hearing(1) Where significant damage to the public health, safety, welfare, property, and natural resources or the public trust in those natural resources or damage to persons or property occurs or is anticipated to occur due to the operation of a dam, the department may order the owner to limit dam operations. These orders may include, but are not limited to, cold water release, minimum flow releases from dams, impoundment fluctuation restrictions, or requirements for run-of-the-river operation. In issuing these orders, the department shall take into account social, economic, and public trust values.(2) Where significant damage to persons, property, or natural resources or the public trust in those natural resources occurs as a result of the condition or existence of a dam, the department may order the removal of the dam following a determination by the department that, due to the continued condition or existence of the dam, the dam is likely to continue to cause significant damage. In issuing a removal order, the department shall take into account social and economic values, the natural resources, and the public trust in those natural resources and shall not issue a removal order when those factors exceed adverse impacts on natural resources or present danger to persons or property. The department shall not issue a removal order involving a dam subject to the regulatory authority of the Michigan public service commission or the federal energy regulatory commission unless that commission has concurred in writing with the order.(3) Prior to finalizing an order under this section, the department shall provide an owner an opportunity for a hearing pursuant to the administrative procedures act of 1969.Add. 1995, Act 59, Imd. Eff. 5/24/1995 .