Over $600,000 in grants have been announced to protect the watersheds around Michigan, and the Diamond Lake Association in Cassopolis is among the recipients.

The association ensures water quality in Diamond Lake is preserved while keeping the public educated on lake issues.

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy says the grants seek to preserve critical watersheds through cleanup programs, water testing and planning, according to WSJM. They can also be used to support the administration of watershed organizations.

They say 68 applications requested over $2.5 million, and over $600,000 ws awarded. The Diamond Lake Association is receiving $40,000 as part of the grants announced.