A staple for centuries and ‘synonymous with northern Michigan,’ the fish are struggling to reproduce in the Great Lakes. So scientists hope to convince the whitefish to spawn in rivers, away from threats.
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.
Water’s True Cost
As the nation prepares to pour hundreds of billions of federal dollars into rescuing water systems, the Great Lakes News Collaborative investigates the true cost of water in Michigan. Read the series.
Ready or Not
The Great Lakes region is frequently touted as one of the most climate-resilient places in the U.S., in part because of its enviable water resources. But climate change also threatens our water. The Great Lakes News Collaborative explores what it will take to prepare. Read the series.
Gretchen Whitmer seeks another $150M to restart Palisades nuclear plant
The plant could be a key for Michigan to realize its transition away from fossil fuels, but environmental groups are upset by the governor’s proposal to double the state’s financial support for Palisades.
As Michigan winters vanish, researchers study snow for clues about what’s next
Scientists once believed little important happened during winters. But as they vanish, the study of snowpack is increasing. ‘It brings home a reality that has been predicted for a long time,’ one U-M scientist says.
Great Lakes Compact at 15: How states worked prevented water diversions
“The compact is a step forward for the Great Lakes but it’s just the beginning of a long journey.”
Can Michigan reduce phosphorus pollution getting into Lake Erie by 40%?
Michigan won’t reach the phosphorus reduction goal by 2025 as planned. It’s uncertain when it might attain that goal to help reduce cyanobacterial blooms in Lake Erie.
Palisades owners plan two more Michigan nuclear reactors
Holtec International hopes to bring the small modular reactors online by 2030, but will first need to secure permits and overcome financial challenges that have stymied efforts to commercialize the nascent technology.
Feral goldfish are menacing Great Lakes: We’re going to need a bigger bowl
Tracking escaped goldfish in Hamilton Harbour could help control the invasive species.
The spawn from lake sturgeon in Michigan to be introduced to Cuyahoga River
The progeny of lake sturgeon from Michigan will be released into the Cuyahoga River at Cleveland, Ohio.
Clock ticks for water utilities to join national PFAS settlements
Decision needed soon for funds to remove toxic chemicals from drinking water.
EPA to decide soon on Ohio plan to reduce phosphorus pollution in Lake Erie
Phosphorus pollution feeds cyanobacterial blooms in the western basin of Lake Erie. Ohio submitted a plan to reduce phosphorus runoff, but many believe it will fail.