New study examines how law enforcement agencies, forensic teams and botanists have used moss to solve murders, track missing people and calculate how long ago someone died.
Michigan colleges and universities
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Detroit’s vacant lots have surprising upside: boosting bird diversity
Empty lots in deindustrialized cities like Detroit may contribute to bird species diversity, says a new study by researchers at MSU and Carleton University in Canada. The study recommends that vacant land management in the city takes a balanced approach that considers the needs of both residents and birds.
Posted inQuality of Life
In world of AI, Michigan State University Extension bets on human expertise
For 118 years, Michigan State University Extension has existed to serve the public with programs ranging from canning classes to soil testing and financial literacy workshops. Now, it aims to bill itself as an antidote to online misinformation.
Posted inMichigan Government
Lions’ Sam LaPorta pushing to limit dog experimentation in Michigan
Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta is among a growing list of celebrities backing legislation to end painful testing on dogs in Michigan.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Report: Aging crisis to cause Michigan to lose out on economic boom
A new University of Michigan economic report warns that the ‘long-term future has now arrived’ for the state, causing it to lose out on jobs from a national economic uptick.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Cannabis workers developing asthma that can turn deadly, MSU researcher finds
New research says workers picking, grinding and packaging cannabis are developing workplace-related asthma, and two deaths have occurred so far. Michigan is the nation’s fifth largest cannabis producer.
Posted inTalent & Education
Schools bonds have become a tough sell in Michigan. Not this time
Michigan voters said yes to 65% of school district bond requests. School districts pitched renovations to schools, updated playgrounds and technology and more athletic facilities in the November 2025 election.
Posted inTalent & Education
MSU does U-turn on unisex bathrooms after complaints
Michigan State has partially reversed unisex community bathrooms in honors dorm.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Out of reach: Where do Michigan’s trans youth go for care now?
The University of Michigan and Corewell Health dropped gender-affirming care for their young transgender patients earlier this year. The decision has left families facing a new medical and political reality.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
U-M study: 1 in 5 young adults using marijuana, alcohol to fall asleep
A University of Michigan study found that about 22% of young adults use cannabis, alcohol or both to help them fall asleep. Experts warn that the habit can lead to dependency and poorer sleep quality, though some advocates argue cannabis may offer benefits when used responsibly.