Last month, the Michigan attorney general signed a court filing in support of energy giant that claims debate about global warming is still ‘raging’ among scientists. Spoiler alert: It’s not.
Michigan Environment Watch
Michigan Environment Watch examines how public policy, industry, and other factors interact with the state’s trove of natural resources.
Great Lakes News Collaborative
Bridge Michigan, Circle of Blue, Great Lakes Now at Detroit Public Television, The Narwhal and Michigan Public work together to report on the most pressing threats to the Great Lakes region’s water. This independent journalism is supported by the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation. You can find all of the collaborative’s stories here.
Shockwave
The Great Lakes region is in the midst of a seismic energy shakeup, from skyrocketing data center demand and a nuclear energy boom, to expanding renewables and electrification. In 2026, the Great Lakes News Collaborative will explore how shifting supply and demand affect the region and its waters. Read the series here.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Climate change brings risks, opportunity to ‘Pure Michigan’
A climate scientist sees reason for optimism as Michigan and the world grapples with a hotter, more extreme climate.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
How U-M data ‘nerds’ helped Flint find homes with dangerous lead pipes
University of Michigan researchers developed an algorithm that has played an important role in Flint’s efforts to replace hazardous lead service lines. It could help other Michigan cities better locate older, compromised pipes.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
How long can Great Lakes fend off thirsty world from water diversions?
A 2008 interstate compact prevents distant dry places from siphoning off Great Lakes water. But will the agreement hold up in the face of growing demand?
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Michigan environment roundup: Rock stacking tourists harm Tahquamenon Falls
This week’s can’t-miss journalism about Michigan’s natural resources.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
In West Michigan, PFAS contamination leaves fruits and veggies to wither
Danger to the groundwater in the town of Parchment could mean trouble to vegetable gardens, prompting some to wonder if their soil is permanently damaged.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Lake Erie’s algae bloom is growing again after paralyzing Toledo water system
Fueled by farm runoff, harmful algal blooms continue to grow in Western Lake Erie, and climate change may make them even more intense. An expert explains the problem and how it could be addressed.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Michigan environment roundup: Recyclers scramble as China halts plastic, paper imports
This week’s can’t-miss journalism about Michigan’s natural resources.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
With few friends on Great Lakes, chorus grows for cormorant kills
As fish numbers drop in Michigan’s northern waters, efforts to limit the birds have ranged from raccoon squads to slicking their eggs with oil. Now the big guns are getting involved. (with slideshow)
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Floods test mettle in Michigan’s UP. Waiting for relief tests patience.
Yoopers are doing it themselves, digging out after the worst flooding in more than a generation. But money is running out, and folks are getting tired of waiting for emergency relief assistance.