On:
In: Beaches, Boating, Paddle Sports and Sailing, Chicago, Feature Homepage, Feature-Chicago, Illinois, Indiana, James Proffitt, lake erie, Lake Huron, Lake Michigan, Lake Ontario, Lake Superior, Latest News, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, News, Ohio, Ontario, outdoor recreation, Pennsylvania, Recreation and Tourism, recreational fishing, Recreational Hunting and Fishing, sailing, Tourism, Wisconsin
Boating on a Budget: Get off land and onto the Great Lakes

The Great Lakes are great for many reasons – their economic power, the lifestyle they provide millions of residents, as a getaway for tens of millions visitors and the livelihood it offers hundreds of thousands in lakes-related industries.

And then there’s the water. Summer sees the lakes filled with people soaking, swimming, skiing – and boating.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/07/boating-budget-great-lakes-recreation/

James Proffitt

On:
In: Chicago, culture, Feature Homepage, Feature-Chicago, Food, history, History and Culture, Illinois, Latest News, Lighthouses, Museums and Cultural Institutions, museum, New York, thousand islands
Thousand Island Dressing Mystery: Uncertain origins of one of America’s favorite sauces

What do you get when you mix mayonnaise, a vaudeville star, two swanky hotels and a fisherman’s wife?

If you guessed Thousand Island dressing and an age-old mystery, you’d be correct. 

Today, Thousand Island dressing is bottled and sold in grocery stores nationwide. You may even find a simplified version of the dressing (mayonnaise, ketchup or tomato puree, and pickle relish) at your favorite burger spot, masquerading as their “special” or “secret” sauce.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/07/thousand-island-dressing-uncertain-origins/

Rachel Duckett

On:
In: canada department of fisheries and oceans, Chicago, Feature-Chicago, fish, Fish, Birds and Animals, Illinois, Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, Latest News, Research, Research, Data and Technology, Sandra Svoboda, Science, Technology, Research
The Suckers: Great Lakes’ “best supporting fishes” are important to the food web

As an avid angler, Great Lakes Now Host Ward Detwiler has encountered suckers, a bottom-feeding family of fish that are present in all five Great Lakes and spawn in the rivers of the watershed.

But he’s never been terribly mindful of them.

“It’s never something you’re really out looking for,” Detwiler said.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/07/suckers-scientist-best-supporting-fishes-great-lakes-food-web/

Sandra Svoboda

On:
In: Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Chicago, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, Feature-Chicago, flint, Illinois, infrastructure, Latest News, Lead, Michigan, News
Some Chicagoans Wary of Lead Pipe Replacement

By Laura Gersony, Circle of Blue

The Great Lakes News Collaborative includes Bridge Michigan; Circle of Blue; Great Lakes Now at Detroit Public Television; and Michigan Radio, Michigan’s NPR News Leader; who work together to bring audiences news and information about the impact of climate change, pollution, and aging infrastructure on the Great Lakes and drinking water.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/07/chicago-wary-lead-pipe-replacement/

Circle of Blue

On:
In: Chicago, Cleveland, Detroit, Duluth, Feature Cleveland, Feature Detroit, Feature Homepage, Feature Milwaukee, Feature-Chicago, fish, Fish, Birds and Animals, History and Culture, Illinois, Indiana, indigenous communities, Latest News, Lighthouses, Museums and Cultural Institutions, Michigan, Milwaukee, Minnesota, New York, News, Niagara Falls, Ohio, Ontario, sturgeon, Toronto, Tourism, Wisconsin
See the Sturgeon: The many ways to see, touch and appreciate sturgeon around the region

When the Milwaukee River Lake Sturgeon Reintroduction Project began 16 years ago, success wasn’t immediately apparent.

Having a solid scientific foundation for the project wasn’t the problem: sturgeon were raised in the Milwaukee River so they would return there to spawn when the time came. The problem was that lake sturgeon don’t return to a river to spawn for around 15 years.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/07/ways-see-touch-appreciate-sturgeon-great-lakes-region/

Noah Bock

On:
In: birds, Chicago, Feature Homepage, Feature-Chicago, Fish, Birds and Animals, History and Culture, Illinois, Latest News, News, Sandra Svoboda
Birds on Film: Filmmaker Bob Dolgan talks about Chicago’s piping plovers with Great Lakes Now

A pair of piping plovers appeared on a busy Chicago beach two years ago, and filmmaker Bob Dolgan recorded the human effort to protect the birds’ nest.

The result: a documentary film. Dolgan shared some of his footage with Great Lakes Now, which can be seen in this segment:

GLN’s Nick Austin spoke with Dolgan about his work chronicling “Monty and Rose,” the plover pair that’s inspired so much conservation of habitat in Chicago.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/07/birds-film-bob-dolgan-chicago-piping-plovers/

Sandra Svoboda

On:
In: Budget, Chicago, Drinking Water, Feature Homepage, Feature-Chicago, Illinois, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, New York, News Roundup Drinking Water, Ohio, Policy, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice
Drinking Water Roundup: Biden administration invests millions in rural water, treatment plant uses ultraviolet, lead pipe removal in Flint

From lead pipes to PFAS, drinking water contamination is a major issue plaguing cities and towns all around the Great Lakes. Cleaning up contaminants and providing safe water to everyone is an ongoing public health struggle.

Keep up with drinking water-related developments in the Great Lakes area.

Click on the headline to read the full story:

Illinois:

  • Discolored water, manganese in Carlinville a recurring problem – WICS

SPRINGFIELD, Ill., (WICS) — High levels of Manganese in the city of Carlinville’s water is causing the water to turn brown, stain clothes, and more.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/07/drinking-water-biden-rural-infrastructure-lead-pipe/

Rachel Duckett

On:
In: Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Chicago, Collaboration, equity, Feature Homepage, Feature-Chicago, Illinois, infrastructure, Latest News, News, sewer systems
In Chicago, Flooding Overwhelmingly Strikes Communities of Color

By Laura Gersony, Circle of Blue

The Great Lakes News Collaborative includes Bridge Michigan; Circle of Blue; Great Lakes Now at Detroit Public Television; and Michigan Radio, Michigan’s NPR News Leader; who work together to bring audiences news and information about the impact of climate change, pollution, and aging infrastructure on the Great Lakes and drinking water.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/06/chicago-flooding-infrastructure-communities-color/

Circle of Blue

On:
In: AP, Chicago, COVID-19, Feature-Chicago, Illinois, Lighthouses, Museums and Cultural Institutions, News, Recreation and Tourism, Tourism
Chicago’s Adler Planetarium won’t fully reopen until 2022

CHICAGO (AP) — While most of Chicago’s cultural institutions have reopened their doors, the Adler Planetarium won’t do so fully until next year.

The planetarium along Lake Michigan closed in March 2020 amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Planetarium officials said in a letter posted on the website earlier this month that they’ll start offering some events in July including weekend screenings of sky shows, but due to financial difficulties the full reopening will be in March 2022.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/06/ap-chicago-adler-planetarium-reopen-2022/

The Associated Press

On:
In: Chicago, Drinking Water, Feature Homepage, Feature-Chicago, Illinois, Indiana, Latest News, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, News, News Roundup Drinking Water, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin
Drinking Water Roundup: Lead pipes in Illinois and Minnesota, rare one-person grand jury used in Flint water criminal case, increased Line 3 pumping

From lead pipes to PFAS, drinking water contamination is a major issue plaguing cities and towns all around the Great Lakes. Cleaning up contaminants and providing safe water to everyone is an ongoing public health struggle.

Keep up with drinking water-related developments in the Great Lakes area.

Click on the headline to read the full story:

Illinois:

  • A new Illinois law will replace lead water pipes; Moline will begin construction this summer – WQAD 8

MOLINE, Ill.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/06/lead-pipes-illinois-minnesota-grand-jury-flint-water-line-3/

Rachel Duckett

On:
In: AP, Beaches, Beaches, Boating, Paddle Sports and Sailing, Chicago, Feature Homepage, Feature-Chicago, Illinois, Lake Michigan, News
Chicago man jumps into Lake Michigan for 365th straight day

By Shafkat Anowar, Associated Press

CHICAGO (AP) — A Chicago bus driver looking for a way to relieve stress during the coronavirus pandemic jumped into Lake Michigan for a 365th straight day on Saturday.

Dan O’Conor said he started jumping into the lake at Montrose Harbor on the city’s North Side last year to relieve stress.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/06/ap-chicago-man-jumps-into-lake-michigan-for-365th-straight-day/

The Associated Press

On:
In: AP, Beaches, Beaches, Boating, Paddle Sports and Sailing, Chicago, Feature Homepage, Feature-Chicago, Illinois, Lake Michigan, News
Chicago man jumps into Lake Michigan for 365th straight day

By Shafkat Anowar, Associated Press

CHICAGO (AP) — A Chicago bus driver looking for a way to relieve stress during the coronavirus pandemic jumped into Lake Michigan for a 365th straight day on Saturday.

Dan O’Conor said he started jumping into the lake at Montrose Harbor on the city’s North Side last year to relieve stress.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/06/ap-chicago-man-jumps-into-lake-michigan-for-365th-straight-day/

The Associated Press

On:
In: Chicago, Cleveland, Feature Cleveland, Feature Homepage, Feature-Chicago, forever chemicals, Forever Chemicals Featured, Illinois, Indiana, Latest News, New York, News, Ohio, PFAS, Research, Research, Data and Technology
Raining PFAS: Amount of PFAS found is outpacing legacy contaminants

A decades-long monitoring project in the Great Lakes basin has started checking for PFAS in rain. It’s finding the forever chemicals across the basin in large amounts.

Those numbers aren’t published yet, but PFAS are showing up in concentrations higher than legacy contaminants like mercury, PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) and pesticides.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/06/raining-pfas-outpacing-legacy-contaminants/

Andrew Blok

On:
In: AP, Chicago, Feature-Chicago, Illinois, Lake Michigan, News, water levels
High waves wash out Chicago beaches as Lake Michigan reopens

CHICAGO (AP) — Beaches in Chicago were washed out by high waves Friday on the first day the city was to reopen Lake Michigan to swimming since summer 2019.

Waves reached up to 11 feet (3.35 meters) high, closing many of the beaches that had been set to open for the first time since Sept.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/06/ap-high-waves-chicago-beaches-lake-michigan/

The Associated Press

On:
In: Chicago, community update, Drinking Water, Environmental Justice, utility relief, water access

Jeff Whitelow has been known for his profound ability to walk in the shoes of those in the most vulnerable communities and help bring vital information to those who need it most, in language they best understand. Taking a vow of poverty to personally assess the life of those most vulnerable in Chicago, enabled him to identify that water shutoffs from unaffordable rates and lead exposure are serious problems. 

Through the Chicago Water Council, Jeff has championed the search for residents eligible for the new drinking water Utility Billing Relief (UBR) program in Southside Chicago neighborhoods and assisting them in enrolling into the program that forgives 100% of residents debts after one year of consistent payment. 

The Chicago Water Council has been working diligently to promote the awareness of the UBR program, boots are on the ground identifying residents, qualifying them according to the UBR criteria, and lastly, assisting them in becoming a UBR member of the program. To date the Chicago Water Council  has identified over 50 residents eligible for the program and helped enroll 20 residents while establishing partnerships with food pantries to meet our targeted members in generous volumes. Work is underway to reach out to other nearby neighborhoods, in the Southside of Chicago to further aid those in need and ensure public health for all Chicagoans. 

Freshwater Future honored Jeff Whitelow for his commitment with a Freshwater Hero Award, read more here or listen to Jeff accept his award.

Author: Brandon Tyus, Community Programming & Policy Associate

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/uncategorized/debt-relief-helps-keep-water-flowing/

Alexis Smith

On:
In: biden administration, Budget, Buffalo, Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Chicago, Climate change, Collaboration, COVID-19, Detroit, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Detroit, Feature Homepage, Feature-Chicago, Illinois, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, New York, News, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Policy, Politics, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Quebec, The Provinces, The States, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, water shutoffs, Wisconsin
Water Access: As moratoria on shutoffs end, old problems return to the forefront

As moratoria expire across the Great Lakes region, advocates say ongoing affordability and debt relief are key.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/04/water-shutoffs-debt-infrastructure/

Kari Lydersen

On:
In: AP, biden administration, Chicago, Drinking Water, Feature Homepage, Feature-Chicago, Groundwater Contamination, Illinois, infrastructure, Latest News, Lead, News, Policy, Politics, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
The problem within: Biden targets lead pipes, pushes equity

By Aamer Madhani, Associated Press Writer

CHICAGO (AP) — In the modest bungalows and two-flats of Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood, there’s never a shortage of needed home repairs staring residents in the face. And then there is the less obvious but more ominous problem lurking in their pipes.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/04/the-problem-within-biden-targets-lead-pipes-pushes-equity/

The Associated Press

On:
In: biden administration, Chicago, Drinking Water, Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, Feature-Chicago, Gary Wilson, Illinois, infrastructure, Latest News, Policy, Politics, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments, water shutoffs
Spotlight on Infrastructure: Policy executive talks new Biden plan, definitions of infrastructure

While President Joe Biden’s infrastructure plan, officially the American Jobs Plan, emanates from the White House, a veteran Chicago policy executive says we should consider its genesis as broader than top down.

“It is something that cities and regions have requested – full partnership with the federal government – for quite some time,” said MarySue Barrett, president of the non-profit Metropolitan Planning Council.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/04/infrastructure-biden-administration-policy-qna/

Gary Wilson

On:
In: Chicago, Drinking Water, Feature Homepage, Feature-Chicago, Groundwater Contamination, Illinois, Indiana, Latest News, Lead, Minnesota, New York, News, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin
Drinking Water News Roundup: New York water standards deferrals, microplastics in Pennsylvania

From lead pipes to PFAS, drinking water contamination is a major issue plaguing cities and towns all around the Great Lakes. Cleaning up contaminants and providing safe water to everyone is an ongoing public health struggle.

Keep up with drinking water-related developments in the Great Lakes area.

Click on the headline to read the full story:

Illinois:

  • Brain-damaging Lead Found in Tap Water From Most Illinois Communities During the Past 6 Years – Chicago Tribune

More than 8 of every 10 Illinoisans live in a community where brain-damaging lead was found in the tap water of at least one home during the past six years, a new Chicago Tribune analysis found.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/03/drinking-water-news-new-york-microplastics-pennsylvania/

Grace Dempsey

On:
In: Chicago, Drinking Water, Feature Homepage, Feature-Chicago, Groundwater Contamination, Illinois, Indiana, Latest News, Lead, Minnesota, New York, News, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin
Drinking Water News Roundup: New York water standards deferrals, microplastics in Pennsylvania

From lead pipes to PFAS, drinking water contamination is a major issue plaguing cities and towns all around the Great Lakes. Cleaning up contaminants and providing safe water to everyone is an ongoing public health struggle.

Keep up with drinking water-related developments in the Great Lakes area.

Click on the headline to read the full story:

Illinois:

  • Brain-damaging Lead Found in Tap Water From Most Illinois Communities During the Past 6 Years – Chicago Tribune

More than 8 of every 10 Illinoisans live in a community where brain-damaging lead was found in the tap water of at least one home during the past six years, a new Chicago Tribune analysis found.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/03/drinking-water-news-new-york-microplastics-pennsylvania/

Grace Dempsey

On:
In: biden administration, Chicago, COVID-19, Drinking Water, Environmental Justice, epa, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, Feature-Chicago, Gary Wilson, Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, Illinois, Latest News, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, water shutoffs
Priority Shift: Great Lakes exec moves environmental justice to top of list

Chicago’s Joel Brammeier came of age advocating for the Great Lakes in an era when federal programs that are widely accepted today like the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative were barely on the drawing board.

Brammeier started his advocacy work in 2001 when he managed habitat programs for the Lake Michigan Federation, which later became the Alliance for the Great Lakes as its mission expanded.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/03/great-lakes-environmental-justice-priority/

Gary Wilson

On:
In: Chicago, Drinking Water, Feature-Chicago, Illinois, indigenous communities, Lake Michigan, Latest News, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, News, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Quebec, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Water Withdrawals
Drinking Water News Roundup: Climate change and Illinois water withdrawals, clean water for Michigan students

From lead pipes to PFAS, drinking water contamination is a major issue plaguing cities and towns all around the Great Lakes. Cleaning up contaminants and providing safe water to everyone is an ongoing public health struggle.

Keep up with drinking water-related developments in the Great Lakes area.

Click on the headline to read the full story:

Illinois:

More Illinois Residents Are Turning to Lake Michigan for Their Drinking Water.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/02/drinking-water-climate-change-withdrawals-michigan-quebec-first-nations/

Grace Dempsey

On:
In: Chicago, Drinking Water, Feature-Chicago, Illinois, Indiana, infrastructure, Lake Michigan, Latest News, Minnesota, New York, News, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Water Withdrawals
Drinking Water News Roundup: Joliet picks Chicago, Minnesota road salt, Ohio EPA loans

From lead pipes to PFAS, drinking water contamination is a major issue plaguing cities and towns all around the Great Lakes. Cleaning up contaminants and providing safe water to everyone is an ongoing public health struggle.

Keep up with drinking water-related developments in the Great Lakes area.

Click on the headline to read the full story:

Illinois:

  • Joliet Council Picks Chicago, Not Hammond, to Supply City’s Drinking Water –  Northwest Indiana Times

The city council in Joliet, Illinois has chosen Chicago to be its next water source, despite efforts by Hammond officials to persuade them otherwise.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/01/chicago-lake-michigan-minnesota-road-salt/

Grace Dempsey

On:
In: AP, Asian carp, Budget, Chicago, Feature-Chicago, Illinois, invasive species, Lake Michigan, Latest News, Michigan, News, Policy, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice
Deal reached on project to protect lakes from invasive fish

By John Flesher, AP Environmental Writer

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (AP) — Michigan, Illinois and a federal agency have agreed on funding the next phase of an initiative to keep Asian carp out of the Great Lakes by strengthening defenses on a Chicago-area waterway, officials said Thursday.

The two states and the U.S.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/01/ap-deal-reached-brandon-road-project-asian-carp/

The Associated Press

On:
In: Agriculture, Chicago, contaminated groundwater, Drinking Water, Feature-Chicago, Groundwater Contamination, Illinois, Indiana, indigenous communities, infrastructure, Lake Michigan, Latest News, Michigan, New York, News, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Quebec, Water Withdrawals, Wisconsin
Drinking Water News Roundup: Joliet water supply, contaminated water, support for Wisconsin farmers and water quality

From lead pipes to PFAS, drinking water contamination is a major issue plaguing cities and towns all around the Great Lakes. Cleaning up contaminants and providing safe water to everyone is an ongoing public health struggle.

Keep up with drinking water-related developments in the Great Lakes area.

Click on the headline to read the full story:

Illinois:

  • Chicago Competing With Hammond To Supply Joliet With Drinking Water From Lake Michigan – CBS Chicago

The aquifer that supplies Chicago suburb Joliet’s drinking water is expected to dry up by 2030.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/12/water-withdrawal-contaminated-farmers-water-quality/

Grace Dempsey

On:
In: Books, Books, Authors, Art and Music, Buffalo, Chicago, Cleveland, Detroit, Duluth, Feature Cleveland, Feature Detroit, Feature Milwaukee, Feature-Chicago, Food, Grand Rapids, Illinois, Indiana, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Latest News, Michigan, Milwaukee, Minnesota, Natasha Blakely, New York, News, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Recreation, Recreation, Tourism and Culture, shopping, small business, Toronto, Traverse City, Wisconsin
Great Lakes Gift Guide 2020: Remember that road trip, boat ride, microbrew or sweatshirt you should’ve bought with this list

Want to give your loved ones a holiday gift that connects to that summer trip up north or the fall color tour you took together? 

Or maybe you have a trip planned for after the COVID-19 vaccines have been distributed and want to give them something to remind them they have something to look forward to. 

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/12/great-lakes-gift-guide-2020-list/

Natasha Blakely

On:
In: Chicago, Cleveland, Collaboration, Detroit, Drinking Water, Feature Cleveland, Feature Detroit, Feature-Chicago, Illinois, Latest News, Michigan, Mott Foundation Partnership, Municipalities, News, Ohio, Pennsylvania, philadelphia, utilities, water affordability
Lack of Utility Data Obscures Customer Water Debt Problems

By Brett Walton, Circle of Blue

The Great Lakes News Collaborative includes Bridge Michigan; Circle of Blue; Great Lakes Now at Detroit Public Television; and Michigan Radio, Michigan’s NPR News Leader; who work together to bring audiences news and information about the impact of climate change, pollution, and aging infrastructure on the Great Lakes and drinking water.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/10/utility-data-customer-water-debt-problems/

Circle of Blue

On:
In: 2020 election, Chicago, Climate change, Drinking Water, Environmental Justice, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature-Chicago, flint, Gary Wilson, Illinois, Latest News, Michigan, News, outdoor recreation, Policy, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Recreation, Tourism and Culture, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Wisconsin
Policy Expert Q&A: Keep advocating with elected officials for safe drinking water

The Flint water crisis that made national and international headlines was a failure on many levels, according to University of Chicago Professor Sabina Shaikh.

Particularly, it was a public policy failure, Shaikh told Great Lakes Now in an interview, and the failure in Flint put a spotlight on environmental injustices.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/09/policy-expert-advocating-elected-officials-safe-drinking-water/

Gary Wilson

On:
In: Chicago, Collaboration, Feature-Chicago, Fish, Birds and Animals, Habitat Restoration, Illinois, Latest News, News, Research, Research, Data and Technology, science, Science, Technology, Research, wetlands
Chicago Wetlands Shrank by 40% During the 20th Century

By Kimberly M. S. Cartier, Eos

This story originally appeared in Eos and is republished here as part of Covering Climate Now, a global journalism collaboration strengthening coverage of the climate story.

As Chicago’s industries and population boomed in the late 1800s, city officials decided to reverse the course of the Chicago River so that it flowed away from Lake Michigan.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/09/chicago-wetlands-shrank-40-20th-century/

Eos

On:
In: Chicago, Feature-Chicago, Illinois, Lake Michigan, Latest News, Lighthouses, Museums and Cultural Institutions, museums, Natasha Blakely, News, science, Science, Technology, Research
One Old, One New: Teen project finds meteorite fragments in Lake Michigan

The teenagers and scientists searching for the 2017 meteorite in Lake Michigan found more than they had been looking for, representatives from the team reported yesterday.

In a live update on the Adler Planetarium’s YouTube channel, students and researchers shared two major finds from The Aquarius Project’s years-long attempt to find the meteorite: a sample that could be from that meteorite and a sample from a meteorite much, much older.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/09/aquarius-project-findings-update-meteorite-fragments-lake-michigan/

Natasha Blakely

On:
In: Chicago, Feature-Chicago, Illinois, Lake Michigan, Latest News, News, Research, Research, Data and Technology, science, Science, Technology, Research
Missing Meteorite: Did the search in Lake Michigan find it?

Three years after a meteorite crashed into Lake Michigan, the Adler Planetarium is giving a live virtual update on the search to find it.

Join at 1 p.m. ET/noon CT on Thursday, Sept. 10. Watch here:

In February 2017, a meteorite lit up the night sky before crashing into Lake Michigan off the Wisconsin shoreline.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/09/planetarium-update-lake-michigan-meteorite/

GLN Editor

On:
In: Chicago, Feature-Chicago, Illinois, Latest News, News, ships
Eastland Documentary: Filmmakers talk behind-the-scenes journey and stories

The latest episode of Great Lakes Now takes a trip to Chicago to learn all about the Eastland tragedy – one that isn’t well known, despite its big impact.

On July 24, 1915, a steamship capsized in the Chicago River, and 844 people drowned.

A documentary about the tragedy, “Eastland: The Shipwreck That Shook America,” is airing on PBS stations around the country.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/08/eastland-documentary-filmmakers-behind-the-scenes/

GLN Editor

On:
In: Chicago, Feature-Chicago, Illinois, Latest News, News, Sandra Svoboda, ships
Chicago’s Eastland Disaster: Explore this Great Lakes tragedy with a Storymap

Historic photos, newly discovered film reels, archival accounts from survivors and stories from their descendants are all part of the new documentary “Eastland: The Shipwreck That Shook America.”

The steamship capsized on the Chicago River as hundreds of passengers boarded. Their destination: a day trip to Michigan City, Indiana, just across the southern end of Lake Michigan.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/08/chicago-eastland-disaster-great-lakes-tragedy-storymap/

Sandra Svoboda

On:
In: Chicago, enbridge, Enbridge Line 5 and Other Pipelines, Energy, Feature-Chicago, Ian Wendrow, Illinois, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Latest News, Michigan, Mining, News, Ohio, oil pipelines, Wisconsin
Great Lakes Energy News Roundup: Back Forty mine setback, Illinois and Ohio utility shutoffs

Keep up with energy-related developments in the Great Lakes area with Great Lakes Now’s biweekly headline roundup.

In this edition: Controversial open-pit sulfide mine in UP faces major delays due to COVID-19, utility companies in Ohio and Illinois set to resume disconnections after pandemic-induced moratorium lapses, and Enbridge completes replacement work on Line 5 under St.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/08/great-lakes-energy-back-forty-mine-illinois-ohio-utility-shutoff/

Ian Wendrow

On:
In: Chicago, Collaboration, COVID-19, Detroit, Drinking Water, Environmental Justice, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Detroit, Feature-Chicago, Illinois, Latest News, Michigan, News, Pennsylvania
In a time of COVID-19, millions of Americans are plagued by water debt

Mass water shutoffs in Detroit following the city’s bankruptcy proceedings brought the issue of water affordability and water shutoffs into public notoriety in the U.S. in 2014.

The threat of COVID-19 brought the issue back to the forefront as the CDC urged people to wash their hands frequently.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/08/water-debt-environmental-justice/

GLN Editor

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In: AP, Chicago, Feature-Chicago, fish, Fish, Birds and Animals, Illinois, News
Number of fish types in Chicago waters up to nearly 60 from about 10

CHICAGO (AP) — The variety of fish swimming in Chicago’s rivers have increased in recent decades, which authorities attribute to a decline in pollution, according to a sampling study released Monday by the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District.

The report claims there are nearly 60 different types of fish swimming in the Chicago and Calumet rivers.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/08/ap-fish-types-chicago-waters-increases/

The Associated Press

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In: Chicago, Environmental Justice, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature-Chicago, Gary Wilson, Illinois, Lake Michigan, Latest News, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, sustainability
Priority Shift: Chicago mayor sets environmental sights on neglected communities

Since taking office in May 2019, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot has emphasized that her environmental priorities are focused on the social justice issues of access to drinking water and clean air.

“The mayor is deeply committed to putting environmental justice at the forefront of her environmental agenda,” spokesperson Hali Levandoski told Great Lakes Now.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/07/chicago-mayor-environmental-priority-neglected-communities/

Gary Wilson

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In: Beaches, Boating, Paddle Sports and Sailing, Chicago, COVID-19, Duluth, Feature-Chicago, Illinois, Indiana, Latest News, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, News, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Quebec, Recreation, Recreation, Tourism and Culture, Recreational Hunting and Fishing, Tourism, Wisconsin
Outdoor Escape: Visitors flock to parks, beaches, lakes as states reopen

Great Lakes states and provinces have opened up their parks to overnight campers again now that COVID-19 closures have been lifted.

In March, national parks were closed in Canada, along with Ontario provincial parks. In the U.S., while parks remained open to visitors, facilities and many campgrounds were closed to the public.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/07/visitors-flock-parks-beaches-lakes-provinces-states-reopen/

Emily Simroth

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In: Chicago, Climate change, Energy, Energy, Clean Energy, Ethanol and Fracking, Feature-Chicago, Ian Wendrow, Illinois, indigenous communities, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Lake Huron, Latest News, Michigan, Minnesota, News, Ontario, renewable energy
Great Lakes Energy News Roundup: Lake Huron nuclear waste storage plan dropped, renewable energy in Midland

Keep up with energy-related developments in the Great Lakes area with Great Lakes Now’s biweekly headline roundup.

In this edition: Ontario Power Generation formally withdraws its application to construct a repository for nuclear waste near Lake Huron; Illinois looks to construct offshore energy wind turbines but faces resistance; University of Minnesota may expand viability of geothermal energy in Midwest; and flood-ravaged Midland, Michigan, coming around on renewable energy.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/06/energy-nuclear-huron-renewables-midland-wind-geothermal/

Ian Wendrow

On:
In: Chicago, Climate change, COVID-19, Feature-Chicago, Gary Wilson, Illinois, infrastructure, Latest News, News
Green Reset: COVID-19 offers opportunity for lighter environmental impact

Out of the tragedy that is COVID-19 can come opportunities to improve our lives, our workspace and our environment.

That includes softening the impact we have on natural habitat.

That’s the view of veteran Great Lakes executive Cameron Davis who says, like businesses in big cities that are assessing their space needs, we should pause and assess our impact on the environment.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/06/green-reset-covid-19-offers-opportunity-for-lighter-environmental-impact/

Gary Wilson

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In: Chicago, environmental contamination, Environmental Justice, Floods, reconnection, shoreline, water shutoffs, wind turbines

May 29, 2020

TThis week: Floodwaters Mix with Chemicals After Dam Failures + Some Residents of Chicago May Find Relief from Lack of Running Water + Funding for Lakewalk in Duluth Approved + Wind Turbines in Lake Erie Moves Forward with Limitations + Our Own Alicia Smith Receives “Urban Waters Learning Network Award”

Floodwaters Mix with Chemicals After Dam Failures

Two dams failed in mid-Michigan after 4.7 inches fell on mid-Michigan in 48 hours after several previous days of rain. The flooding surrounded Dow Chemical, headquartered in Midland. Levees designed to protect the plant from external forces were infiltrated causing floodwaters to comingle with dangerous chemicals within the plant creating potential environmental contamination.

Some Residents of Chicago May Find Relief from Lack of Running Water

Many cities in the Great Lakes region are scrambling to reconnect their water customers with service in the face of the Covid-19 pandemic.  In Chicago, residents fear having to pay past bills before they can have their water restored.  Relief may be in sight for those who qualify, as the City has announced a Utility Billing Relief Program featuring reduced rates, no late penalties or debt collection, and debt forgiveness with on-time payments for 12 months.

Funding for Lakewalk in Duluth Approved

A popular seven-mile trail that follows the Lake Superior shoreline in Duluth received funding approval from City Council to rebuild the Canal Park section.  High waters and storms damaged the trail.  Federal and state funding will cover 75% of the improvements and City funds will be used for the remainder.

Wind Turbines in Lake Erie Moves Forward with Limitations

A pilot project for six-offshore wind turbines in Lake Erie, which would be the first of its kind in North America, took one step forward.  The Lake Erie Energy Development Corporation received approval from the siting board with 33 conditions including no nighttime operations from March through October to reduce impacts to bats and birds.  The energy company stated that the conditions could kill the project. Opponents are concerned that the environmental assessment did not adequately address all the potential impacts.

Our Own Alicia Smith Receives “Urban Waters Learning Network Award”

A huge congratulations to our Community and Policy Director, Alicia Smith for receiving the Urban Waters Learning Network Award, presented at the Virtual River Rally for her work with the amazing Junction Coalition in Toledo, Ohio.

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/uncategorized/freshwater-weekly-may-29-2020/

Leslie Burk

On:
In: animals, aquariums, birds, Chicago, COVID-19, Detroit, Feature Detroit, Feature-Chicago, fish, Fish, Birds and Animals, Illinois, Latest News, Lighthouses, Museums and Cultural Institutions, Michigan, museums, Natasha Blakely, News, Ontario, Tourism
Animal Quiz: What Great Lakes aquarium animal are you in quarantine?

The animals at various aquariums are dealing with their own COVID-19 lockdown struggles as they adjust to new routines, new procedures and a distinct lack of the public, and each animal handles it a little differently.

Thanks to Great Lakes aquariums like Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, the Aquatarium at Tall Ships Landing in Brockville, Ontario, and Belle Isle Conservancy in Detroit, the public can get a peek at the various things staff are doing to keep the animals happy and entertained.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/animal-quiz-great-lakes-aquarium-animal-covid-19-quarantine/

Natasha Blakely

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In: animals, Chicago, COVID-19, Feature-Chicago, fish, Fish, Birds and Animals, Illinois, Latest News, Lighthouses, Museums and Cultural Institutions, News, penguins, Recreation, Tourism and Culture, shedd aquarium, Tourism
Day in the Life: How are Shedd Aquarium’s animals coping in the absence of visitors?

Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium is one of the more popular, well-known aquariums around the country with 2 million visitors every year.

But the COVID-19 pandemic has closed it to the public, which is a big change for the penguins, whales, fish and other creatures that live in the Shedd’s various habitats.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/covid-19-shedd-aquarium-visitors/

Natasha Blakely

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In: Chicago, Climate change, Collaboration, Feature-Chicago, flooding, Illinois, infrastructure, Lake Michigan, Latest News, News
Record Rainfall Prompts Reversal of Chicago River into Lake to Ease Flooding

By Patty Wetli, WTTW News

Chicago is drying out Monday after a record rainfall that flooded streets and yards over the weekend.

According to the National Weather Service, Sunday’s precipitation total at O’Hare Airport was 3.11 inches, the most ever recorded on May 17.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/record-rainfall-chicago-river-lake-michigan-flooding/

GLN Editor

On:
In: Asian carp, Budget, Chicago, COVID-19, Feature-Chicago, Gary Wilson, Illinois, invasive species, Lake Michigan, Latest News, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, The States, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments
State Struggle: Budget shortfalls stall Asian carp plan, put cleanups at risk

With the federal government writing trillion-dollar checks to fight COVID-19, support collapsing businesses and feed cash into the economy via stimulus checks, Great Lakes legislators and advocacy groups are seizing on the opportunity to secure federal funding while the money still flows.

Recently the senate committee that oversees water infrastructure projects unanimously approved legislation authorizing $18 billion for projects nationally.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/state-federal-budget-shortfalls-asian-carp-toxic-cleanups/

Gary Wilson

On:
In: Chicago, Energy, Energy, Clean Energy, Ethanol and Fracking, Feature-Chicago, Ian Wendrow, Illinois, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Latest News, Michigan, News
Great Lakes Energy News Roundup: DTE Energy rate hike, Chicago firm fined for polluting canal

Keep up with energy-related developments in the Great Lakes area with Great Lakes Now’s biweekly headline roundup.

In this edition: Michigan Public Service Commission reigns in planned rate hike by DTE Energy, Michigan’s Lower Peninsula failed to meet energy grid reliability standards set by regional monitor, Hilco suburban development fined for failing to prevent pollution of Chicago canal, and renewables are forecasted to overtake coal as a leading source of electricity by the end of this year.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/great-lakes-energy-rate-hike-pollution-renewables/

Ian Wendrow

On:
In: Chicago, Climate change, COVID-19, Drinking Water, Freshwater Weekly

May 1, 2020

This week: The Hell of Not Having Running Water During a Pandemic + Lawsuit to Stop Clean Water Rollbacks + Drinking Water Quality Threatened by Climate Change + Increased Water Withdrawal Approved by Judge +  Chicagoans Waiting for Plovers Monty and Rose to Return

The Hell of Not Having Running Water During a Pandemic

Amidst the pandemic, We The People Of Detroit CEO and founder Monica Lewis-Patrick continues her free water delivery service. After Governor Whitmer made an executive order on water restoration, food pantries and nonprofits delivering water are calculating hundreds if not thousands of residents still without running water. For years, We The People Of Detroit has argued that shutoffs threaten the health of impoverished families. African Americans bear the brunt of this pandemic with higher COVID-19 death tolls occurring in the same areas without running water.

Lawsuit to Stop Clean Water Rollbacks

Six environmental groups filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration to stop clean water rollbacks.  The Trump Administration duplicitously named the rollbacks “Navigable Waters Protection Rule” although it would eliminate those protections. The lawsuit contends the rules are a violation of the Clean Water Act.

Drinking Water Quality Threatened by Climate Change

With Great Lakes water temperatures increasing due to climate change, precipitation has also increased, including extreme rain events. Increased rain means increased runoff that dumps nutrient pollution into our waterways. When coupled with high temperatures, this runoff creates the perfect conditions for harmful algal blooms. The combined events create severe threats to our drinking water, demonstrating our vast water supply can still be vulnerable and undrinkable if not properly protected.

Increased Water Withdrawal Approved by Judge

Unfortunately, a judge ruled this week that Néstle Waters Inc. can increase its pumping rate to withdraw 576,000 gallons of groundwater per day.  Michigan Citizens for Water Conservation, an environmental organization that has worked for years to protect groundwater and surface water from water withdrawals, is considering options in response to the decision.

Chicagoans Waiting for Plovers Monty and Rose to Return

A nesting pair of piping plovers at Montrose Beach in Chicago persevered through a music festival and more last summer.  This summer, the plovers, affectionately named Monty and Rose, may not have to share the beach with humans due to the pandemic.

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/uncategorized/freshwater-weekly-may-5-2020/

Alexis Smith

On:
In: Chicago, Climate change, Collaboration, Energy, Energy, Clean Energy, Ethanol and Fracking, Feature-Chicago, Illinois, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Latest News, News, Research, Data and Technology, Science, Technology, Research, technology
To protect people in the Great Lakes region from climate extremes, weatherize their homes

As climate change makes heat waves more frequent across the region and the nation, cities will need more tools to protect their residents.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/04/rust-resilience-climate-extremes-weatherization/

The Conversation

On:
In: Buffalo, Chicago, Citizen science, Cleveland, Climate change, COVID-19, Detroit, Duluth, Earth Day, Habitat Restoration, Latest News, Milwaukee, Natasha Blakely, News, Toronto, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Earth Day 2020: How to participate from the safety of your home

This year’s Earth Day is a special one, and not just because it’s the 50th anniversary of the event.

With stay home orders and heavy social distancing recommendations in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the usual large gatherings of people to show support, clear trash and do more to help the planet just aren’t plausible.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/04/earth-day-2020-participate-from-home/

Natasha Blakely

On:
In: Chicago, COVID-19, Detroit, Environmental Justice, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Detroit, Feature-Chicago, Gary Wilson, Illinois, Latest News, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, pollution
Environmental Justice During COVID-19: Communities bear extra burden

When you ask well-intentioned government officials about environmental justice issues and why they are so difficult to remedy, the response usually goes like this:

“Some of the challenges we see as environmental problems are really rooted in decades of disinvestment in parts of our urban communities,” Liesl Clark, director of Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy told Great Lakes Now in a 2019 interview.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/04/environmental-justice-during-covid-19-coronavirus/

Gary Wilson