An EPA consent order doesn’t measure how much phosphorus from sources like manure is flowing into the water, primarily from unregulated large-scale animal feeding operations, the city of Toledo and Lucas County say.
Great Lakes
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
After record-warm winter, Michigan may be in for a sweltering summer
Federal forecasters expect above-average temperatures to continue through the fall. That could mean higher fire danger and risk of heat-related illnesses.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Michigan fishers are warned about harmful algae ahead of trout season
Michigan’s trout season starts Saturday, and the DNR is warning fishers about didymo, a type of algae that can be harmful to trout and other fish. New Zealand mudsnails, another invasive species, can also be harmful to trout.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
New study: Great Lakes beaches are littered with plastic trash
A group analyzed 20 years of beach cleanup data, finding that 86% of litter is composed at least partially of plastic.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
PFAS-tainted foam in Lake Huron prompts citizen outcry
After discovering sky-high PFAS levels in the foam, activists panned state environmental regulators for declining to test it earlier. State officials counter that with hundreds of PFAS sites in Michigan, their resources are stretched thin.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Sault tribe challenges Michigan fishing deal, chides ‘preposterous’ rules
With key species like whitefish nearing the brink of collapse, Michigan’s largest Native American tribe wants fewer restrictions on when, how and where its members can fish. Others contend that would imperil the fishery.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Bill would give Michigan residents dibs on campsite reservations at state parks
A state representative has introduced a bill that would allow Michigan residents to reserve campsites at state parks up to two weeks before the inventory is opened to non-residents.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Great Lakes invasive carp barrier slowed by stalemate
Michigan, Illinois should not be ‘the only states to carry the burden’ of funding the invasive carp barrier, argues one official.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Road salt use dips 37% in Michigan warm winter, saving millions, easing pollution
Michigan in poised to save $10 million alone in road salt costs. It’s a similar story for county road crews, bucking a trend of increased use — and pollution — in lakes, rivers and groundwater.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Lake Superior warming fast; push is on to cut energy at Pictured Rocks, parks
National Park Service wants to wean off fossil fuels. That means switching to electric mowers at Pictured Rocks, solar at Keweenaw National Historical Park and discontinuing diesel generators on Isle Royale.