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New laws make it easier for communities to access state financing for water infrastructure

By Lester Graham, Michigan Radio

Bipartisan legislation to help cities get money to fix their water systems has been signed by Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

A lot of Michigan’s drinking water systems are in bad shape.

“We have been very behind in maintaining and upgrading our infrastructure across the state,” Charlotte Jameson with the Michigan Environmental Council.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/07/new-laws-community-access-water-infrastructure/

Michigan Radio

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In: AP, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, Feature Lead, flint, governor rick snyder, Lead, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, The States, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Court kills Flint water charges against ex-governor, others

By Ed White, Associated Press

DETROIT (AP) — The Michigan Supreme Court on Tuesday threw out charges against former Gov. Rick Snyder and others in the Flint water scandal, saying a judge sitting as a one-person grand jury had no power to issue indictments under rarely used state laws.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/06/ap-court-kills-flint-water-charges-ex-governor/

The Associated Press

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In: Advocacy, Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Drinking Water, environmental groups, epa, Latest News, Michigan, News, PFAS, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
MI environmental group calls EPA’s PFAS advisory a “wake-up call” for industries

By Tracy Samilton, Michigan Radio

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/2022/06/environmental-group-pfas-advisory/

Michigan Radio

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In: canada, Collaboration, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, First Nations, History and Culture, indigenous communities, Latest News, News, Ontario, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect, Tribal Governments and First Nations, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Living water: Northern Indigenous communities’ use and perceptions of drinking water

By Mylène Ratelle, University of Waterloo, and Jessie Yakeleya, Sahtu Renewable Resources Board, The Conversation

 is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.

In Indigenous communities that have lacked access to safe water for years, getting access to a safe water supply is crucial.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/06/northern-indigenous-communities-drinking-water/

The Conversation

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In: Beaches, Boating, Paddle Sports and Sailing, cleanup, Collaboration, Drinking Water, Fish, Birds and Animals, Lake Huron, Latest News, litter, Michigan, News, Protect, Recreation and Tourism, Science, Technology, Research, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
JEWEL OF THE GREAT LAKES: Keeping our waters clean, one butt at a time

By Darby Hinkley, The Alpena News

This article is part of a collaboration between The Alpena News and Great Lakes Now at Detroit Public Television to bring audiences stories about the Great Lakes, especially Lake Huron and its watershed.

ALPENA — In her experience picking up litter along the Lake Huron shoreline, Meag Schwartz has seen a whole lot of cigarette butts.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/06/keeping-waters-clean/

The Alpena News

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In: Beaches, Boating, Paddle Sports and Sailing, Collaboration, Commercial Fishing, Drinking Water, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Lake Huron, Michigan, News, pollutants, Recreation and Tourism, Recreational Hunting and Fishing, Tourism
JEWEL OF THE GREAT LAKES: Keeping pollutants out

By Julie Riddle, The Alpena News

This article is part of a collaboration between The Alpena News and Great Lakes Now at Detroit Public Television to bring audiences stories about the Great Lakes, especially Lake Huron and its watershed.

ALPENA — Spring showers may bring spring flowers, but they can also carry pollutants into the lake that provides Alpena’s drinking water and many tourism dollars.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/06/keeping-pollutants-out/

The Alpena News

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In: Drinking Water, Drinking Water News Roundup, Feature Homepage, Illinois, Indiana, Latest News, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, News, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania
Drinking Water News Roundup: Flooding poses risk to well water, Indiana drinking water report shared, EPA grants for Ohio

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:

  • Illinois American Water Encourages Customers to View their 2021 Community Water Quality Report – Business Wire

Illinois American Water is encouraging customers to view the company’s 2021 water quality reports to learn more about the source and quality of their drinking water.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/06/drinking-water-news-roundup-flooding-risk-epa-grants-ohio/

Tynnetta Harris

On:
In: Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Cleveland, Drinking Water, Energy, Clean Energy, Ethanol and Fracking, gas, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Latest News, News, Ohio, oil, Research, Data and Technology, Science, Technology, Research, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Ohio residents fight to get radioactive oil and gas waste off their roads

By Diana Kruzman, Grist

This story was originally published by Grist. You can subscribe to its weekly newsletter here.

Joe Mosyjowski has watched a decade-long boom in oil and gas drilling unfold in the region surrounding his 50-acre farm in northeast Ohio.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/06/ohio-residents-radioactive-oil-gas-waste-roads/

Grist

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In: AP, Climate change, contamination, Drinking Water, flooding, Groundwater Contamination, Illinois, infrastructure, Lead, Michigan, Municipalities, News, PFAS, Research, Data and Technology, Science, Technology, Research, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, wells
Climate-driven flooding poses well water contamination risks

By Michael Phillis and John Flesher, Associated Press

ST. LOUIS (AP) — After a record-setting Midwestern rainstorm that damaged thousands of homes and businesses, Stefanie Johnson’s farmhouse in Blandinsville, Illinois, didn’t have safe drinking water for nearly two months.

Flood water poured into her well, turning the water a muddy brown and forcing Johnson, her husband and their two young children to use store-bought supplies.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/06/ap-climate-driven-flooding-contamination-risks/

The Associated Press

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In: AP, Budget, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, legislation, Municipalities, News, Pennsylvania, Policy, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, The States, water, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Pennsylvania public water utilities say Senate bill will force up rates

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Legislation criticized by opponents as a vehicle for-profit water companies to take over municipal water authorities in Pennsylvania by imposing expensive regulations on them passed the Republican-controlled state Senate on Tuesday.

Opponents also warned that the bill will precipitate ratepayer increases when water authorities must meet the new regulations or after they are forced to sell out to for-profit water companies.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/06/ap-pennsylvania-senate-bill-rates/

The Associated Press

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In: AP, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, forever chemicals, Forever Chemicals Featured, Groundwater Contamination, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, News, PFAS, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Science, Technology, Research, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Pressure growing to remove PFAS from fast food wrappers

By Michael Casey, Associated Press

BOSTON (AP) — Brenda Hampton first came across the toxic industrial compound PFAS after finding it was part of the cocktail of contaminants that tainted the drinking water in her North Alabama community.

Hampton, who believes the contaminated water contributed to kidney problems she and other residents suffer, soon learned the chemicals were found in another source that hit close to home — fast food wrappers, boxes and plates.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/06/ap-pressure-growing-remove-pfas-wrappers/

The Associated Press

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In: Algae Blooms, algal blooms, Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Drinking Water, harmful algal blooms, lake erie, Latest News, Michigan, News, Ohio, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Science, Technology, Research, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Harmful algal blooms cause problems in Lake Erie; drinking water customers pay the price

By Lester Graham, Michigan Radio

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/2022/06/harmful-algal-blooms-lake-erie/

Michigan Radio

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In: AP, Drinking Water, Forever Chemicals Featured, Groundwater Contamination, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, News, PFAS, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, wells, Wisconsin
Marshfield, Adams shut down wells due to PFAS pollution

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Marshfield and Adams have joined the list of Wisconsin cities that have shut down municipal wells due to PFAS contamination.

Wisconsin Public Radio reported that the state Department of Natural Resources announced Thursday that sampling in the two cities has detected PFAS high enough to concern state health officials.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/06/ap-wisconsin-wells-pfas-pollution/

The Associated Press

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In: canada, Drinking Water, infrastructure, Municipalities, News, Ontario, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, The Catch, The Provinces, Toronto, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments, water, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
The Catch: Current issues in Canadian water infrastructure

This month of The Catch features stories from our partners in the Great Lakes News Collaborative. The collaborative’s investigation of the cost of water in the Great Lakes region was the focus of the latest episode.

Toronto-based journalist Andrew Reeves discusses a piece he wrote for Great Lakes Now about the history and current issues in Canadian water infrastructure.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/06/the-catch-canadian-water-infrastructure/

GLN Editor

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In: Collaboration, Drinking Water, Feature Homepage, forever chemicals, Forever Chemicals Featured, Illinois, Indiana, infrastructure, Latest News, Municipalities, News, PFAS, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Science, Technology, Research, The States, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
IDEM Testing Confirms “Forever Chemicals” in Some Public Water Systems

By Enrique Saenz, Indiana Environmental Reporter

Final results of the first phase of statewide community water system testing confirmed the presence of PFAS chemicals in the treated drinking water of nearly a dozen Indiana communities.

The presence of PFAS chemicals in drinking water could be exposing thousands of Hoosiers to a series of adverse health conditions ranging from increased risk of kidney and testicular cancers to high cholesterol levels.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/05/testing-confirms-forever-chemicals-water-systems/

Indiana Environmental Reporter

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In: Drinking Water, Feature Homepage, great lakes now, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, News, Ontario, Policy, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Quiz, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Water’s True Cost: The Great Lakes Now Episode Quiz

Great Lakes Now episodes are packed with important information on current topics.

In “Water’s True Cost,” learn about the aging infrastructure problem in Michigan and how many households struggle to pay their water bills. And in “The Catch” we look at the same problem in Ontario, the problem of Michigan’s lacking sewer regulations, and a new series on Great Lakes policy.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/05/waters-true-cost-the-great-lakes-now-episode-quiz/

Tynnetta Harris

On:
In: Drinking Water, Forever Chemicals Featured, Latest News, New York, News, Ohio, Ontario, PFAS, PFAS News Roundup, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Wisconsin
PFAS News Roundup: New York bill bans PFAS in clothes, Ohio city files lawsuit, Wisconsin struggles to set standards

PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of widespread man-made chemicals that don’t break down in the environment or the human body and have been flagged as a major contaminant in sources of water across the country.

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

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/05/pfas-news-roundup-new-york-clothes-ohio-lawsuit-wisconsin-standards/

Tynnetta Harris

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In: Brian Owens, Drinking Water, Feature Homepage, Fish, Birds and Animals, infrastructure, invasive species, Latest News, News, Ontario, Protect, quagga mussels, Research, Research, Data and Technology, Science, Technology, Research, technology, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, zebra mussels
AI technology could be used to monitor invaders in the Great Lakes

Invasive zebra and quagga mussels are firmly established in the Great Lakes, and efforts to control them have proved mostly fruitless. But environmental managers still want to know where they are, how many there are and what they are up to, so they can predict how the ecosystem will be affected and protect vital infrastructure.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/05/ai-technology-invaders-great-lakes/

Brian Owens

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In: Drinking Water, Drinking Water News Roundup, Groundwater Contamination, Illinois, Indiana, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Latest News, Lead, Minnesota, New York, News, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Wisconsin
Drinking Water News Roundup: $3M invested in Illinois water system, coal ash rule means safer water in Indiana

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:

  • Illinois American Water Announces Investment of Over $3 Million in Sterling Water System During National Infrastructure Week – Business Wire

Illinois American Water is investing over $3 million to replace over 8,600 feet or 1.6 miles of water main throughout the Sterling Water System.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/05/drinking-water-news-roundup-illinois-water-system-coal-ash-indiana/

Tynnetta Harris

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In: Andrew Reeves, Budget, Drinking Water, Feature Homepage, infrastructure, Latest News, News, Ontario, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, The Provinces, Tribal Governments and First Nations, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments, water, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Ontario faces uneven investment in water infrastructure

This is part two in a two-part series looking at the cost of water in Ontario. Read part one here, and find the Great Lakes News Collaborative’s series on cost of water in Michigan here.

Just how big an underinvestment Ontario is facing when it comes to the state of its drinking and wastewater infrastructure is difficult to tabulate.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/05/ontario-uneven-investment-water-infrastructure/

Andrew Reeves

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In: Andrew Reeves, Budget, canada, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, infrastructure, lake erie, Lake Ontario, Lake St. Clair, Lake Superior, Latest News, News, Ontario, Policy, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Science, Technology, Research, The Provinces, Toronto, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments, water, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Even in Canada, where water prices are low, aging infrastructure and rising costs are a problem

This is part one in a two-part series looking at the cost of water in Ontario. Find the Great Lakes News Collaborative’s series on cost of water in Michigan here.

Canadians living in the Great Lakes basin have perhaps become spoiled at the seemingly endless availability of water.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/05/canada-aging-infrastructure-rising-costs/

Andrew Reeves

On:
In: Algae Blooms, clean water, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, flint, Gary Wilson, infrastructure, Latest News, Lead, Michigan, New York, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Research, Data and Technology, Science, Technology, Research, The States, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments, water infrastructure, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Wisconsin
Water executive tells cities to “get creative” when it comes to replacing lead service lines

Lynn Broaddus has little patience for cities who focus on the reasons why they can’t replace lead service lines.

She understands that finances are a big part of the problem but says too often cities focus on the barriers, instead of what’s possible.

Broaddus is the recent past-president and now a trustee with the international group Water Environment Federation, a non-profit focused on increasing the awareness of the impact and value of water.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/05/water-executive-creative-replacing-lead-service-lines/

Gary Wilson

On:
In: Budget, Drinking Water, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, News, Policy, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Water's True Cost
Michigan’s ‘Very Big Opportunity’ in Infrastructure Windfall

By Brett Walton, Circle of Blue

This story is part of “Water’s True Cost,” a series by the Great Lakes News Collaborative focused on the rising cost of water in Michigan and the various causes leading to the state of water systems today. Find the rest of the stories in the series here.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/05/michigans-infrastructure-windfall/

Circle of Blue

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In: Budget, clean water, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, Municipalities, News, Policy, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, The States, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Some Michigan water systems are overbuilt, underfunded. Are mergers the answer?

By Kelly House, Bridge Michigan

This story is part of “Water’s True Cost,” a series by the Great Lakes News Collaborative focused on the rising cost of water in Michigan and the various causes leading to the state of water systems today. Find the rest of the stories in the series here.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/05/michigan-water-systems-overbuilt-underfunded/

Bridge Michigan

On:
In: Collaboration, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Lead, Forever Chemicals Featured, Indiana, infrastructure, Latest News, Lead, News, PFAS, Policy, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, The States, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Indiana Finance Authority COO Testifies at House Drinking Water Hearing

By Enrique Saenz, Indiana Environmental Reporter

Federal funding mechanisms for improving Indiana’s water infrastructure work but need more flexibility to help eliminate lead service lines, PFAS and other issues, according to testimony from one of the state’s top finance officials.

Jim McGoff, Indiana Finance Authority chief operating officer and director of environmental programs, testified March 29 before the U.S.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/05/indiana-finance-authority-house-drinking-water-hearing/

Indiana Environmental Reporter

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In: Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Lead, flint, lawsuit, Lead, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice
Flint residents get extension to file claims over bad water

FLINT, Mich. (AP) — A judge granted a seven-week extension Monday to file claims for a share of $626 million settlement over Flint’s lead-contaminated water.

U.S. District Judge Judith Levy approved a request to stretch the May 12 deadline to June 30.

“Although it is clear that all involved are working diligently to compile the information and documentation necessary to support claims, some claimants have experienced delays or difficulties in obtaining certain required documents,” Levy said, quoting a summary by special master Deborah Greenspan.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/05/flint-residents-extension-file-claims/

The Associated Press

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In: Advocacy, Budget, Detroit, Drinking Water, Environmental Justice, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Detroit, Feature Homepage, Latest News, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, water affordability, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Water's True Cost
High Cost of Water Hits Home

By Brett Walton, Circle of Blue

This story is part of “Water’s True Cost,” a series by the Great Lakes News Collaborative focused on the rising cost of water in Michigan and the various causes leading to the state of water systems today. Find the rest of the stories in the series here.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/05/high-cost-water-hits-home-michigan/

Circle of Blue

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In: Drinking Water, Feature Homepage, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, Municipalities, News, Policy, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, water infrastructure, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Water's True Cost
Short-changing Michigan local governments has resulted in deteriorating water systems and other services

By Lester Graham, Michigan Radio

This story is part of “Water’s True Cost,” a series by the Great Lakes News Collaborative focused on the rising cost of water in Michigan and the various causes leading to the state of water systems today. Find the rest of the stories in the series here.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/05/short-changing-michigan-local-governments-deteriorating-water-systems/

Michigan Radio

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In: Agriculture, Chicago, Climate change, Drinking Water, Drinking Water News Roundup, Illinois, Latest News, Minnesota, Municipalities, Natasha Blakely, News, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Science, Technology, Research, Tribal Governments and First Nations, Wisconsin
Drinking Water News Roundup: First Nation residents call settlement restrictive, Wisconsin towns try regulating big farms, Chicago cans tap water

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:

  • Illinois American Water Ranks #1, J.D.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/05/drinking-water-news-roundup-first-nation-settlement-wisconsin-towns-chicago-water/

Natasha Blakely

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In: Algae Blooms, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, Forests and Plants, Groundwater Contamination, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, Municipalities, News, Science, Technology, Research, septic systems, sewage, sewage infrastructure, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Michigan’s lack of septic system regulations is causing problems for some of its most pristine lakes

By Lester Graham, Michigan Radio

This story is part of “Water’s True Cost,” a series by the Great Lakes News Collaborative focused on the rising cost of water in Michigan and the various causes leading to the state of water systems today. Find the rest of the stories in the series here.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/05/michigans-septic-system-problems-lakes/

Michigan Radio

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In: Budget, Drinking Water, Enbridge Line 5 and Other Pipelines, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, Feature Lead, flint, Illinois, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Latest News, Lead, lead pipes, Michigan, Municipalities, Natasha Blakely, News, Policy, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect, The States, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Michigan’s 20th Century water systems too big for its shrinking city populations

This story is part of “Water’s True Cost,” a series by the Great Lakes News Collaborative focused on the rising cost of water in Michigan and the various causes leading to the state of water systems today. Find the rest of the stories in the series here.

In 2014, the legacy problem of lead pipes throughout the nation came to a head in Flint, Michigan, when the city emergency manager’s decision to switch the water source and not treat it to prevent corrosion led to lead leaching from the pipes into the city’s drinking water.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/05/michigans-water-systems-city-populations/

Natasha Blakely

On:
In: benton harbor, Budget, development, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, flint, infrastructure, Latest News, Lead, Michigan, Municipalities, News, PFAS, Policy, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect, The States, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Water's True Cost
Water woes loom for Michigan suburbs, towns after decades of disinvestment

By Kelly House

This story is part of “Water’s True Cost,” a series by the Great Lakes News Collaborative focused on the rising cost of water in Michigan and the various causes leading to the state of water systems today. Find the rest of the stories in the series here.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/05/water-woes-michigan-suburbs-disinvestment/

Bridge Michigan

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In: Advocacy, Budget, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, fund, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, Municipalities, News, Policy, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect, rural, The States, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Many Rural Towns Have Neglected Drinking Water Systems for Decades

By Lester Graham

This story is part of “Water’s True Cost,” a series by the Great Lakes News Collaborative focused on the rising cost of water in Michigan and the various causes leading to the state of water systems today. Find the rest of the stories in the series here.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/05/rural-towns-drinking-water-systems/

Michigan Radio

On:
In: AP, Budget, Drinking Water, Forever Chemicals Featured, Groundwater Contamination, News, PFAS, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, The States, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Wisconsin
Madison mayor wants to spend $425K on PFAS filtration system

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway wants to spend $425,000 to design a system to filter PFAS chemicals out of a city well.

The Wisconsin State Journal reported Monday that the mayor said the system would be the first in Wisconsin designed to filter the so-called “forever chemicals” out of drinking water.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/05/madison-mayor-pfas-filtration-system/

The Associated Press

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In: clean water, Detroit, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, flint, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, Municipalities, News, Policy, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, The States, water, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Water's True Cost
After Decades of Neglect, Bill Coming Due for Michigan’s Water Infrastructure

This story is part of “Water’s True Cost,” a series by the Great Lakes News Collaborative focused on the rising cost of water in Michigan and the various causes leading to the state of water systems today. Find the rest of the stories in the series here.

PONTIAC, Mich.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/05/bill-michigans-water-infrastructure/

Circle of Blue

On:
In: Drinking Water, forever chemicals, Forever Chemicals Featured, infrastructure, Municipalities, Natasha Blakely, New York, News, PFAS, PFAS News Roundup, Policy, Research, Data and Technology, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Wisconsin
PFAS News Roundup: PFAS in face masks, McDonald’s and Burger King sued for PFAS in packaging

PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of widespread man-made chemicals that don’t break down in the environment or the human body and have been flagged as a major contaminant in sources of water across the country.

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

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/04/pfas-news-roundup-face-masks-fast-food-chains-sued/

Natasha Blakely

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In: Drinking Water, great lakes news collaborative, Great Lakes Now Events and Road/River Shows, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, water, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Water's True Cost
Great Lakes News Collaborative examines Water’s True Cost

As the nation prepares to pour billions of federal dollars into rescuing water systems, the Great Lakes News Collaborative investigates the true cost of water in Michigan with a special series of reports and events during May.  Reporters from Bridge Michigan, Circle of Blue, Great Lakes Now, and Michigan Radio have combined their resources for the most extensive coverage on the cost of water in Michigan to date.

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Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/04/great-lakes-news-collaborative-waters-true-cost/

GLN Editor

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In: AP, Drinking Water, Earth Day, Earth Week, Equity and Environmental Justice, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect, The States, Wisconsin
Evers creates new office of environmental justice

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Gov. Tony Evers on Friday signed an executive order creating a new office of environmental justice, announcing the move on Earth Day.

Republicans last year removed the office from Evers’ proposed budget. But the Democrat up for reelection this November got around them by creating it through an executive order.

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Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/04/ap-evers-office-environmental-justice/

The Associated Press

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In: Drinking Water, Events, Events and Special Broadcasts, Great Lakes Now Events and Road/River Shows, infrastructure, News, PBS, water, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Water's True Cost
Join the Conversations: Events on “Water’s True Cost” will answer your questions about water infrastructure

Throughout the Great Lakes region and across the United States, water systems are aging.

In some communities, this means water bills that residents can’t afford or water that’s unsafe to drink. It’s also leading to increased pollution in some of Michigan’s most pristine lakes. From shrinking older cities and small towns to the comparatively thriving suburbs, the true cost of water has been deferred for decades.

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Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/04/waters-true-cost-events/

GLN Editor

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In: Chicago, Drinking Water, Feature Homepage, Illinois, John McCracken, Lake Michigan, Latest News, Municipalities, News, Policy, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect, Science, Technology, Research, The States, water, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
To build a new pipeline or not: Illinois city seeks Lake Michigan water

In less than a decade, Joliet, Illinois, could run out of water.

The city of 150,000 people, roughly 45 minutes southwest of Chicago, is facing a looming water crisis as the patchwork of underground wells and aquifers it currently uses for municipal water is drying up.

Joliet currently relies on the Cambrian-Ordovician sandstone aquifer system for its water.

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Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/04/build-new-pipeline-illinois-lake-michigan-water/

John McCracken

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In: Drinking Water, Drinking Water News Roundup, Feature Homepage, Illinois, Indiana, Latest News, Michigan, Natasha Blakely, News, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Wisconsin
Drinking Water News Roundup: EPA won’t regulate rocket fuel, Illinois prison water contaminated with Legionella

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:

  • Illinois advocates call for action after prison officials mislead on contaminated water – The Appeal

On March 11, IDOC and the Illinois Department of Public Health released a joint press release announcing that Legionella bacteria had been detected in two prisons—Stateville Correctional Center and Joliet Treatment Center.

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Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/04/drinking-water-news-roundup-epa-rocket-fuel-prison-water-contaminated/

Natasha Blakely

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In: Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Drinking Water, Groundwater Contamination, Latest News, Michigan, News, PFAS, Research, Research, Data and Technology, Science, Technology, Research, wastewater, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Research finds more PFAS coming out of wastewater treatment plants than going in

By Tracy Samilton, Michigan Radio

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.

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Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/04/research-pfas-wastewater-treatment-plants/

Michigan Radio

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In: Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, forever chemicals, Forever Chemicals Featured, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Michigan, Minnesota, Natasha Blakely, News, Pennsylvania, PFAS, PFAS News Roundup, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Wisconsin
PFAS News Roundup: Pennsylvania sets regulations, judge says Wisconsin DNR can’t regulate, Chemours uses climate change to defend PFAS

PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of widespread man-made chemicals that don’t break down in the environment or the human body and have been flagged as a major contaminant in sources of water across the country.

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

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/04/pfas-news-roundup-pennsylvania-regulations-climate-change-defend/

Natasha Blakely

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In: Drinking Water, Feature Homepage, forever chemicals, Forever Chemicals Featured, Gary Wilson, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Latest News, Michigan, News, PFAS, Research, Research, Data and Technology, Science, Technology, Research, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments
PFAS is a widespread problem. The solution needs to come from widespread sources

PFAS research is still in the early stages, which means issues with PFAS crop up all the time to surprise researchers like Michigan State University professor Cheryl Murphy.

PFAS, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are known as Forever Chemicals because of their reluctance to break down in humans. They can be in the food chain, drinking water and are found in common items in everyday commercial use like water-repellent clothing, dental floss and non-stick cookware.

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Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/04/pfas-solution-widespread-sources/

Gary Wilson

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In: benton harbor, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, Feature Lead, infrastructure, Latest News, Lead, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, The Catch, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
The Catch: Benton Harbor’s lead pipes and the plan to replace them

Broadcasting in our monthly PBS television program, The Catch is a Great Lakes Now series that brings you more news about the lakes you love. Go beyond the headlines with reporters from around the region who cover the lakes and drinking water issues. Find all the work HERE.

Benton Harbor’s water problems aren’t new.

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Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/04/the-catch-benton-harbor-lead-pipes/

Sandra Svoboda

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In: benton harbor, Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, Feature Lead, Latest News, Lead, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice
State praised for vow to remove sources of lead from Benton Harbor homes

By Kelly House, Bridge Michigan

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.

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Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/04/vow-remove-lead-benton-harbor-homes/

Bridge Michigan

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In: AP, Budget, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Lead, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Recreation and Tourism, The States, Tourism, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Michigan Gov. Whitmer signs over $4.7B for infrastructure

LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Michigan is investing more than $4.7 billion to improve infrastructure, including drinking water upgrades, internet access and fixing roads, bridges and dams.

The spending plan includes some of the biggest infrastructure investments in state history, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said Wednesday before signing the bipartisan legislation in Grand Rapids.

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Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/03/ap-gov-whitmer-signs-4-7b-infrastructure/

The Associated Press

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In: AP, Drinking Water, Farming, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Wisconsin
DNR issues expansion permit for Kewaunee County factory farm

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources announced March 25 it will issue a permit that will make it harder for a Kewaunee County factory farm accused of contaminating drinking water to expand.

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported that the permit caps the number of cows at the Kinnard Farms facility at about 8,000 head, the number of cows the farm currently houses.

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Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/03/dnr-issues-expansion-permit-for-kewaunee-county-factory-farm/

The Associated Press

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In: AP, Budget, Detroit, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, flint, Grand Rapids, infrastructure, legislation, Michigan, News, Policy, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Recreation and Tourism, The States, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Michigan Legislature approves $4.8B infrastructure plan

By David Eggert, Associated Press

LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Michigan lawmakers approved $4.8 billion in spending March 24, mostly for infrastructure upgrades, with an influx of federal pandemic and other funds that will go toward water systems, roads, parks and other priorities including affordable housing.

The huge supplemental budget plan, which Gov.

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Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/03/ap-michigan-legislature-approves-infrastructure-plan/

The Associated Press

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In: Beaches, Boating, Paddle Sports and Sailing, Drinking Water, Feature Homepage, Lake Michigan, Latest News, Michigan, Natasha Blakely, News, outdoor recreation, Quiz, Recreation and Tourism, Tourism
Surf and Slide: The Great Lakes Now Episode Quiz

Great Lakes Now tries to make every episode interesting and educational.

In “Surf and Slide,” GLN Host Ward Detwiler learns ice boating from one of the best in the world – right in southeast Michigan. Follow along with the all-women surfing group Lake Surfistas as they strive to make lake surfing more welcoming and stay warm in winter waves.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/03/surf-and-slide-episode-quiz/

Natasha Blakely