I second exactly what JKB typed.
Don't be discouraged. You are already ahead of the game knowing what to look for or who to talk to. JKB is from MI that alone could be a big help for you. More than likely someone here has done what your thinking about doing only you get to learn their lessons for FREE!
When your planning your project, don't forget to budget a contribution to this one of a kind fish forum!

Good luck.