Septic systems are common around Elk Lake and many other lake communities. If they’re maintained, they usually manage to keep bacteria and viruses in check. But failing systems can allow contaminated water to seep into nearby bodies of water.
Michigan water protection cost
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Michigan's 20th Century water systems too big for its shrinking city populations
Cities around the Great Lakes region struggle with the cost of water maintenance and operation as their populations decline.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Many rural towns have neglected drinking water systems for decades
As some rural towns lose population and government funds shrink, some drinking water systems are one failure away from crisis.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Water woes loom for Michigan suburbs, towns after decades of disinvestment
Michigan cities rich and poor, big and small have been delaying maintenance on their water systems for decades. Now, even wealthy towns are suffering the consequences of past reluctance to pay for water system upkeep.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
After decades of neglect, bill coming due for Michigan’s water infrastructure
Federal and state governments begin to reverse course on underinvestment to address water’s true cost.