Freshwater Weekly

THIS WEEK: Freshwater Heroes Honored on World Water Day, March 22–Register Today! + Study Looks at Climate Change Impacts to Great Lakes During Winter + Water Watchers Get Wellness and Organization Support + Drinking Water Contaminated near Canadian Forces Detachment Mountain View

Freshwater Heroes Honored on World Water Day, March 22–Register Today!

Join us to recognize our amazing Freshwater Hero award recipients at the Virtual Online Ceremony – Tuesday, March 22nd, 2022, 12-1pm (ET).  The event coincides with World Water Day and will celebrate selected people, organizations, and communities throughout the Great Lakes Region who are committed to protecting our earth’s precious freshwater resources.  This free event will inspire you and give you hope as we share stories of a few people, organizations, and communities making a difference. Register here.

Study Looks at Climate Change Impacts to Great Lakes During Winter 

Climate change is impacting ice cover on the Great Lakes. Extreme early freezes, early thaws and extreme fluctuations in temperature are causing thinner average ice cover overall. Professor David Richardson of the Global Lake Ecological Observatory Network warns that “Less ice during the winter means warmer lakes during the summer”, which could lead to bigger algal blooms and the loss of fish species. A new cross border study with American and Canadian scientists will collect winter climate data on all five of the Great Lakes to provide a better understanding of the impacts of extreme fluctuations and more.

Water Watchers Get Wellness and Organization Support

As we approach the two-year anniversary of the pandemic, we are reminded of the importance of continuing healthy habits for wellness. Freshwater Future’s Water Watchers & Wellness Program provides a space for leaders and volunteers with community groups to practice wellness and stay up to date with insightful information for managing nonprofits. This is your last opportunity to join! The next session will focus on Getting & Managing Grants, (Thursday, March 24, 2022 at 11:30 am ET), Register Now.

Drinking Water Contaminated near Canadian Forces Detachment Mountain View

Toxic chemicals, benzene, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been found in wells near the Canadian Forces Detachment Mountain View. Private wells around the Canadian Forces Detachment have tested for PFAS (called forever chemicals for their persistence) and benzene in amounts above the provincial guidelines but below federal guidelines. Firefighting foams are believed to be the source of the pollution. All affected properties are being provided bottled water until a long-term solution can be found.

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/freshwater-weekly/freshwater-future-weekly-march-4-2022/

Alana Honaker

Communications Grants Filling the Gap + All About Water Convening + Ontario’s Water Infrastructure, Much Like in the U.S., Needs Support + Your Voice on Michigan’s Healthy Climate Plan + Save the Date-Freshwater Heroes Celebration, March 22, 2022

Communications Grants “Filling the Gap”

A new website created for the Benton Harbor Community Water Council will help them reach even more people in the community to provide information on how to stay safe from lead in drinking water. Now residents can sign-up to receive emails about where to get bottled water or filters. The new website will help the Community Water Council build a stronger voice for ensuring Benton Harbor residents have clean water! This is just the first of many new websites to come through our Community Based Communications Grants program.  Alexis Smith manages this program for Freshwater Future and when asked about the program shared, “What I enjoy most about this project is being able to fill the gap that the technological divide has created between grassroots organizations and their opportunities. Now, even groups with smaller capacities can have their voices heard and their work given the platforms they deserve.”

All About Water Convening Focused on Accessing Federal Infrastructure Funds 

In the next five years, there will be billions in federal funds to help communities upgrade water infrastructure.  Thanks to the dynamic speakers at the All About Water Session last week for inspiring participants to take actions to ensure their communities can access these funds to improve the safety of drinking water.

Missed the event?  Watch the recording on Freshwater Future’s YouTube Channel.

Ohio’s Deadline for Communities to Submit Application for State Revolving Funds Approaching–March 4

Ohio municipalities have until March 4, 2022 to nominate local water infrastructure projects for the annual State Revolving Fund. Certain project types, such as lead service lines, PFAS, and Harmful Algal Blooms, are accepted at any time. Talk to your neighbors and encourage your local government to pursue this record-level clean water funding soon – the process can take time and the extra funding ends in 5 years.

Ontario’s Water Infrastructure, Much Like in the U.S., Needs Support

In Toronto, there was an oil spill into the Don River as well as water flooded streets and transit stations. In Brampton there were floods requiring evacuations. There were ice jams and flooding in Port Stanley, and a water main break in Guelph. Together these stories highlight the need for Ontario Helping Municipalities Build Storm and Wastewater Infrastructure. Currently the provincial government is investing $25 million to build clearly needed infrastructure. These funds are split with $15 million going to improve aging and outdated storm and wastewater infrastructure and $10 million going to upgrade sewage monitoring and public reporting. This investment should help improve Ontarians’ access to clean water, but much more will be needed.

Your Voice is Needed on Michigan’s Healthy Climate Plan

In January, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) released the draft MI Healthy Climate Plan that lays out a broad vision on how the state can reach carbon neutrality by 2050, a goal set by Governor Whitmer. While there are many positive elements of the plan it lacks the urgency and details to turn the vision into reality. Please share your support for the Climate Plan and the need for more swift timelines and bolder actions by emailing EGLE today through our online take action form. (Deadline for comments is March 14, 2022).

Save the Date–Freshwater Heroes Celebration, March 22, 2022

You are invited to the 2021 Freshwater Heroes Celebration! Please join us on World Water Day, Tuesday, March 22nd at Noon (ET) as we honor several people, organizations, and communities throughout the Great Lakes Region who are committed to protecting our earth’s precious freshwater resources. This live virtual celebration is open to the public! This is a free event, but pre-registration is required.

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/freshwater-weekly/freshwater-future-weekly-february-25-2022/

Alana Honaker

THIS WEEK: Success: Administration Cancels Mine Leases for Minnesota Boundary Waters; Success: 1 Billion for Great Lakes Restoration; Southern Ontario Wetlands Provide Over $4 Billion in Natural Filtration Annually; Rivers Found to Be Major Source of PFAS Pollution to the Great Lakes

Success: Administration Cancels Mine Leases for Minnesota Boundary Waters!

We’ve been reporting on the struggle to protect the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and Lake Superior from an open pit mine that would produce toxic acid mine drainage for years. Unfortunately, recent political winds have often changed the course of these protections, but a recent legal opinion from the U.S. Department of Interior determined that the leases had been renewed without sufficient environmental analysis. We are grateful to all of the organizations that have been working to protect this popular wilderness area from mining, such as Water Legacy in Minnesota. While this is not likely the end of the work to safe this amazing treasure, it is a good step in the right direction.

Success:  $1 Billion For Great Lakes Restoration

The United States Environmental Protection Agency announced a major boost to Great Lakes restoration efforts with $1 Billion from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill earmarked for cleanup of polluted hotspots in the region. This funding will focus on cleanup at 22 Areas of Concern, including designated underserved communities, through the Justice 40 Initiative. Freshwater Future has worked hard for over a decade to ensure there is a continued focus through federal funding on the region to improve the environment, public health, and economy. Stay tuned for more information as plans are implemented.

Southern Ontario Wetlands Provide Over $4 Billion in Natural Filtration Annually

Ontario has lost over 90% of its original wetlands through urbanization, and to a lesser extent, agriculture.  Research completed at the University of Waterloo by Dr Tariq Aziz found that the remaining wetlands provide about $4.2 billion in sediment filtration and phosphorus removal services annually. This natural process helps keep drinking water sources clean and lessens the impact of algae blooms in lakes and rivers.

Rivers Found to Be Major Source of PFAS Pollution to the Great Lakes

Rivers draining into the Great Lakes discharge more than just water, they transport pollution as well, and a recent study found they play a significant role in moving PFAS pollution, the family of toxic chemicals called “forever chemicals.”  Water and sediment samples analyzed from three tributaries: the Fox, Menominee and Peshtigo Rivers, accounted for two-thirds of the PFAS pollution in Green Bay. The Great Lakes are the source of drinking water for more than 40 million people in the U.S. and Canada. Understanding how PFAS are reaching the Great Lakes is critical to developing solutions to protect our drinking water sources.

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/freshwater-weekly/freshwater-future-weekly-february-18-2022/

Alana Honaker

THIS WEEK: Next Week: Join Us for the All About Water Symposium on Feb 17th; Join the Q&A Projects Grants Webinar on Feb 22nd; Have Your Voice Heard on Michigan’s Draft Healthy Climate Plan; First Nations $8-Billion Class-Action Settlement; Ontario Government Plans to Build New Highways Through Provincial Greenbelt 

Next Week: Join Us for the All About Water Symposium on Feb 17th!

Freshwater Future and All About Water are excited to share a space with you to join experts, peer groups and municipal officials to learn about federal dollars coming to states for water infrastructure projects. By participating you will gain valuable information about how your municipality can benefit from available federal funding to help replace lead lines, update water and wastewater treatment plants, utilize green infrastructure to prevent or reduce flooding, and more. REGISTER NOW! Thursday, February 17th, 9:30 am – noon EST.

Need Funds for Your Water Work? Join the Q&A Projects Grants Webinar on Feb 22nd

Freshwater Future has been fortunate to provide Grant Programs for grassroots community organizations for over 26 years. Learn more about our Grants Program on Tuesday, February 22nd– noon (EST). To register online, please click HERE. To register by email or phone, please contact laurie@freshwaterfuture.org, (231)348-8200. Also, visit the grant map on our website to learn more about our Grant Programs funding initiatives and HERE for our grant Request for Proposals.

Have Your Voice Heard on Michigan’s Draft Healthy Climate Plan

Michigan recently released a draft MI Healthy Climate Plan focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Public input and feedback on the plan can be submitted verbally at two remaining listening sessions:

February 14, 2022 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm, Focus on Environmental Justice – Register Here

Written comments can be submitted until March 14, 2022 to EGLE-ClimateSolutions@Michigan.gov.

First Nations $8-Billion Class-Action Settlement 

Members of Canadian First Nations who have been affected by drinking water advisories for years will be compensated in what one chief called a “historic moment” for First Nations in Canada. Neskantaga First Nation and Curve Lake First Nation in Ontario, along with Tataskewyak Cree Nation in northern Manitoba, started a class-action lawsuit against the federal government over long-term drinking water advisories. The agreement includes an infrastructure commitment of at least $6 billion to support access to safe drinking water on reserves and $1.5 billion in compensation to individuals deprived of clean drinking water.

Ontario Government Plans to Build New Highways Through Provincial Greenbelt 

Planning for two new highways, Highway 413 and the Bradford Bypass, is underway.  While the provincial government claims that the highways are needed to reduce commute times through the Greater Toronto Area, conservation organizations and many local communities (including Toronto, Markham, and Vaughan) are opposed to the proposed highways.  The proposed routes are through the Greenbelt and will have potential impacts on fish and wildlife habitat, water quality and will increase greenhouse gas emissions.    The provincial environmental assessment process has been streamlined and there are concerns that environmental issues are not being adequately considered and addressed.  Additionally, there have been concerns with the consultation process.

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/freshwater-weekly/freshwater-future-weekly-february-11-2022/

Alana Honaker

THIS WEEK: Event Focus–Project Grants Webinar; All About Water Symposium; Water Watchers & Wellness Registration Open; Sand Sculptures Form on Lake Michigan Shore            

Need Funds for Your Water Work? Join the Q&A Projects Grants Webinar on Feb 22nd

Freshwater Future has been fortunate to provide Grant Programs for grassroots community organizations for over 26 years. Learn more about our Grants Program on Tuesday, February 22nd– noon (EST). To register online, please click HERE. To register by email or phone, please contact laurie@freshwaterfuture.org, (231)348-8200. Also, visit the map on our website to learn more about our Grant Programs funding initiatives and their impact on past projects.

Securing Federal Infrastructure Dollars Focus of All About Water Symposium, Feb 17th 

Freshwater Future and All About Water invite you to join experts, peer groups and municipal officials to learn about federal dollars coming to states for water infrastructure projects. By participating you will gain valuable information about how your municipality can benefit from available federal funding to help replace lead lines, update water and wastewater treatment plants, utilize green infrastructure to prevent or reduce flooding, and more. REGISTER NOW! Thursday, February 17th, 9:30 am – noon EST.

Personal and Organizational Wellness Online Kicks-Off

2022’s first Water Watchers & Wellness forum was a wonderful turn out! The session included meditative self-care and a discussion on year-end financial management for nonprofits and community-based organizations. It’s still not too late to join this monthly seminar forum scheduled on the 4th Thursday of every month.  The next session will be February 24th, 2022, from 11:30am-1pm ET.  Register today!

Sand Sculptures Form on Lake Michigan Shore  

Strong icy winds on the southern Lake Michigan shoreline whipped wet sand into formations reminiscent of Star Wars. Check out these cool photos of these short-lived sand sculptures.

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/freshwater-weekly/freshwater-future-weekly-january-28-2022/

Alana Honaker

THIS WEEK: Contact Your Local Officials to Ensure Your Community Benefits from Recent Federal Investments in Water; Registration: All About Water Symposium, Securing Federal Infrastructure Dollars; Personal and Organizational Wellness Online Series 2022; Chemicals in Water Systems in Indiana Communities

Time is NOW – Contact Your Local Officials to Ensure Your Community Benefits from Recent Federal Investments in Water

With the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law last year, there is cause to be excited yet focused and vocal in anticipation of a one-time, 5-year program (2022-2026) that will increase the amount of grants and low-interest loans available to local governments, especially those considered disadvantaged communities, to fund lead service line replacements and other large water storage, treatment, and distribution upgrades. Because the process of securing funds can be daunting, especially for smaller communities, we encourage you to connect with your local officials to help ensure applications are being prepared and plans are being made to secure and utilize these funds for community needs.  Find application deadlines and other information here.

Registration is Now Live: All About Water Symposium, Securing Federal Infrastructure Dollars

As promised, Freshwater Future and All About Water invite you to join experts, peer groups and municipal officials to learn about federal dollars that will be coming to states for water infrastructure projects, and how your municipality can benefit. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to secure funding through State Revolving Funds that are provided by Congress to help replace lead lines, update water and wastewater treatment plants, utilize green infrastructure to prevent or reduce flooding and more. REGISTER NOW!  February 17th, 10:30 am – noon EST.

Personal and Organizational Wellness Online Series 2022

Water Watchers & Wellness is a FREE program designed to support individuals and organizations working to protect and restore water.  This free online forum series is designed to help connect you to others doing similar work, provide you with expert and peer conversations about issues of importance to you, and offer one-on-one consulting assistance to help you speed past the bumps in the road we all experience in building, organizing and conducting our water work. Monthly forums are scheduled on the 4th Thursday of every month beginning January 27th, 2022, from 11:30am-1pm ET.  Register today!

Toxic Forever Chemicals Found in Indiana Community Water Systems 

The Indiana Department of Environmental Management recently detected PFAS chemicals in drinking water in several communities. Since the 1940s, PFAS chemicals have been used in nonstick cookware, fire retardants, flame and water-proof clothing, food wrappers, automotive and industrial applications, and stain prevention products. Scientific studies have linked PFAS to health impacts such as cancer, thyroid disease, weakened immunity, and other health problems. The Indiana communities where PFAS chemicals were detected are all downstream from potential industrial sources of chemical pollution. The situation in Indiana is similar to states across the country. These chemicals have gone undetected in drinking water for decades, and only when states and municipalities step up to conduct testing do communities become aware of the concerns.  For more information and resources check out our PFAS resource page.

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/freshwater-weekly/freshwater-future-weekly-january-21-2022/

Alana Honaker

THIS WEEK: You Are Invited: All About Water Symposium, Securing Federal Infrastructure Dollars + Personal and Organizational Wellness Online Series 2022 + Ontario government plans to build new highways through provincial Greenbelt + You May Be Eligible for Financial Assistance for Your Water Bill

You Are Invited: All About Water Symposium, Securing Federal Infrastructure Dollars

Freshwater Future and All About Water invite you to join experts, peer groups and municipal officials to learn about federal dollars that will be coming to states for water infrastructure projects, and how your municipality can benefit. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to secure funding through State Revolving Funds that are provided by Congress to help replace lead lines, update water and wastewater treatment plants, utilize green infrastructure to prevent or reduce flooding and more. SAVE THE DATE!  February 17th, 10:30 am – noon EST.  Registration information will be in next week’s Weekly.

Personal and Organizational Wellness Online Series 2022

Water Watchers & Wellness is a FREE program designed to support individuals and organizations working to protect and restore water.  This free online forum series is designed to help connect you to others doing similar work, provide you with expert and peer conversations about issues of importance to you, and offer one-on-one consulting assistance to help you speed past the bumps in the road we all experience in building, organizing and conducting our water work. Monthly forums are scheduled on the 4th Thursday of every month beginning January 27th, 2022, from 11:30am-1pm ET.  Register today!

Ontario Government Plans to Build New Highways Through Provincial Greenbelt

Planning for two new highways, Highway 413 and the Bradford Bypass, is underway.  While the provincial government claims that the highways are needed to reduce commute times through the Greater Toronto Area, conservation organizations and many local communities (including Toronto, Markham, and Vaughan) are opposed to the proposed highways.  The proposed routes are through the Greenbelt and will have potential impacts on fish and wildlife habitat, water quality and will increase greenhouse gas emissions.    The provincial environmental assessment process has been streamlined, and there are concerns that environmental issues are not being adequately considered and addressed.  Additionally, there have been concerns with the consultation process.  The federal Impact Assessment Agency of Canada will be reviewing the process and deciding whether a full federal impact assessment is required.  

You May Be Eligible for Financial Assistance for Your Water Bill

Are you or someone you know struggling to pay their water bill? You may be eligible to receive financial assistance.  Most states are providing assistance to prevent water shut offs during COVID-19.  Water is a human right, and water utility bills have in some cases skyrocketed, so we want to be sure residents have easy access to the programs that may be able to help.  Visit our list of assistance programs available in Great Lakes states and Cities.

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/uncategorized/freshwater-future-weekly-january-14-2022/

Alana Honaker

THIS WEEK: Happy New Year and New Opportunities Coming + Do You Know a Freshwater Hero? Nominate Them Today! + Wondering Where the Ice Is?

Happy New Year and New Opportunities Coming!

First and foremost, Freshwater Future wants to wish you a Happy New Year and send you positive thoughts for 2022. It can seem overwhelming to meet the challenges of today’s world, but together, we can continue to meet those challenges.  Because we are stronger together, we want to encourage collective work and solutions in the coming year, and we will be rolling out some new opportunities for you to connect with peers and experts to keep your work moving forward and keep you connected. Stay tuned as we will have descriptions and ways to register next week!

Do You Know a Freshwater Hero? Nominate Them Today!

Every year, Freshwater Future recognizes champions across the Great Lakes region who work tirelessly to protect the waters in their Great Lakes community. Do you know of an individual or organization that is deserving to be recognized as a Freshwater Hero? If  so, send in your nomination by including, 1) name of the individual or organization; 2) community they work in; and 3) what makes them a water champion. Please submit nominations by January 21, 2022 to ann@freshwaterfuture.org. You can check out our past award recipients here.

Wondering Where the Ice Is? Check out Great Lakes Ice Coverage Maps

Ice cover is almost nonexistent on the Great Lakes so far this winter, and this can have impacts on flooding, evaporation from the lakes, and more.  To track where the ice is, check out this resource from the Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory where you can see current ice coverage maps and even compare with historical maps.  As climate change is altering the weather patterns in the region, impacts such as changes in normal ice cover can result.

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/freshwater-weekly/freshwater-future-weekly-january-7-2021/

Alana Honaker

THIS WEEK: Say YES to a better Great Lakes Future by donating today! + Freshwater Voices Newsletter: Latest Issue Now Available Online

Say YES to a Better Great Lakes Future by Donating Today! 

It’s not too late to make an impact with your Year-End Gift today! Together, we can stand stronger than ever to uplift our Great Lakes communities, help get water resources to those in need, while protecting Great Lakes waters and public health. Please say YES to a better Great Lakes Future by donating HERE. Thank you!

Freshwater Voices Newsletter – Latest Issue Now Available Online

The most recent issue of our Freshwater Voices Newsletter is now available online. Click HERE to access a full pdf version of Voices highlighting people and projects making an impact around the Great Lakes Region. If you would like a print version of the newsletter mailed to you, just send a request to leslie@freshwaterfuture.org.

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/freshwater-weekly/freshwater-future-weekly-december-30-2021/

Alana Honaker

THIS WEEK: There Is Still Time to say YES to a better Great Lakes Future by donating today! + Freshwater Future Still Benefiting from Environmental Fellow – Thank You Sanchez! + Administration Requests Input from U.S. Tribes on Line 5 Treaty Talks

There Is Still Time to say YES to a better Great Lakes Future by donating today! 

Make an Impact with Your Year-End Gift Today! Together, we can stand stronger than ever to uplift our Great Lakes communities, help get water resources to those in need, while protecting Great Lakes waters and public health. Please say YES to a better Great Lakes Future by donating HERE. Thank you!

Freshwater Future Still Benefiting from Environmental Fellow – Thank You Sanchez!

This year, we were fortunate to connect with Sanchez Rolle through the Yale Environmental Fellows Program.  Sanchez worked on projects with Freshwater Future to ensure educational information about lead in drinking water would get to families in the region. Sanchez put it this way, “Freshwater Future has been a driving force impacting policies to protect the water for communities surrounding the Great Lakes Region. This organization is intentional about achieving their goal of promoting safe, clean, accessible and sustainable water. It has been echoed that water should be a basic right for every individual but if it is not potable, it will serve no purpose.” Check out Sanchez’ full article about his program here.

Administration Requests Input from U.S. Tribes on Line 5 Treaty Talks

The Biden Administration has responded to a request by Great Lakes tribes to decommission Line 5 with a request for input before talks between the U.S. and Canada under the Transit Pipeline Treaty of 1977, which has never before been utilized. This dispute resolution process is intended to provide a structure for resolving transboundary disputes, but the focus will no doubt have to consider the balance between safety of the drinking water for over 40 million people and economic interests.  Freshwater Future supports the tribes in their efforts, along with others, to curtail the use of this 63-year-old pipeline carrying toxic fuels under Lakes Michigan and Huron.

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/freshwater-weekly/freshwater-future-weekly-december-22-2021/

Alana Honaker

THIS WEEK: Give the Gift of Helping to Ensure the Healthy Future of Our Great Lakes Waters! + Manufacturing Giant Dumps Over 400 Gallons of Oil into Wisconsin’s Menomonee River + Ontario Study: Laundry Filter Can Reduce Plastic Pollution + Lead in Drinking Water Have You Worried? 

Give the Gift of Helping to Ensure the Healthy Future of Our Great Lakes Waters!

Do you have someone on your holiday list that already has it all? Why not make a donation in honor of family and friends to Freshwater Future this holiday season. The recipient gets to be a part of helping more people and communities in the Great Lakes Region access clean and safe water resources. Freshwater Future will also send a greeting card acknowledging your gift. Click HERE to make a donation today!

Manufacturing Giant Dumps Over 400 Gallons Of Oil Into Wisconsin’s Menomonee River

In Milwaukee, Wisconsin a 400 gallon spill of oil was dumped into the stormwater sewage line that leads into the Menomonee River. Milwaukee Riverkeeper was frustrated with the slow response because delay can allow oil to sink and increase the potential for long term impacts. This is yet another example of the need for stronger oversight and monitoring to ensure these events don’t happen and keep human life and aquatic life alike safe with clean water.

Ontario Study: Laundry Filter Can Reduce Plastic Pollution

Research undertaken by the University of Toronto and Georgian Bay Forever found that installing a filter on household washing machines can significantly reduce the amount of microfibers in waste water.  Microfibers are shed from synthetic fabrics (polyester) and treated natural fabrics (wool, cotton) every time they are washed.  These microfibers flow through the wastewater system and enter lakes and rivers.  Microfibers are now the most common type of microplastic pollution in the Great Lakes and are present in water samples, sediment, fish and humans. In spring 2021, opposition MPPs introduced a private members bill that would require filters in new washing machines in the province of Ontario, but it has not progressed to second reading. France will require filters on all washing machines by 2025 and California is considering similar legislation.

Lead in Drinking Water Have You Worried? 

Are you worried about whether you have lead in your drinking water? Lead materials in pipes, solder or faucets increase the risk that lead can leach into your water. But it isn’t always easy to know what materials are in your pipes. It can seem overwhelming to understand what to do and how to keep your family safe. To help you–here are some simple steps to turn that worry into actions.

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/freshwater-weekly/freshwater-future-weekly-december-17-2021/

Alana Honaker

THIS WEEK: Won’t you say YES to a better Great Lakes Future by donating today! + Michigan’s Stricter Lead and Copper Rule Still Has Limitations + Growing Percentage of Residents Worried about Great Lakes Health + New York Offers Assistance to Pay Water Bills for Low-Income Residents + Canadian and U.S. Funding Opportunities

Won’t You Say YES to a Better Great Lakes Future by Donating Today! 

Over the past two years, we have had to say “NO” to doing many things we normally take for granted: NO to social and family gatherings, NO to visiting our favorite Great Lakes destinations, NO to community events, NO to in-person volunteer opportunities, and the list goes on. Freshwater Future has something you can say YES to: helping more people and communities in the Great Lakes Region access clean and safe water resources.

Please say YES to a year-end financial gift to Freshwater Future to support our impactful programs. Click HERE to donate today.

Michigan’s Stricter Lead and Copper Rule Still Has Limitations

After the Flint Water Crisis, Michigan adopted stricter Lead and Copper Rule regulations and new testing requirements for water systems. These new protocols focused on whether water systems provide appropriate measures to reduce metals leaching from pipes. However, these new rules don’t go far enough and lack resources and enforcement to give a truly accurate picture of lead-levels. Without more robust sampling procedures and public outreach, Michigan residents are still left unsure whether their water is safe to drink. The bottom line for resident safety is that only a test at each home can tell whether residents are consuming lead in their drinking water. And remember when reviewing test results, NO lead is safe.

Growing Percentage of Residents Worried about Great Lakes Health

A recent poll of 4,500 residents provides a snapshot of Canadian and U.S. Great Lakes residents’ views about the importance of protecting the health and water quality of the Great Lakes.  The survey conducted every three years by the Great Lakes Water Quality Board informs decision makers on the public’s understanding of threats and solutions.  One encouraging result of the poll showed 78 percent felt that the economy of the region will suffer without healthy lakes.

Similarly, 84 percent recognized that individuals or households play an important role in protecting the lakes. One of our goals at Freshwater Future is to provide our supporters with opportunities to take actions to keep our waters healthy from source to tap.

New York Offers Assistance to Pay Water Bills for Low-Income Residents

New York is offering up to $5,000 in assistance to low-income residents to pay their drinking water and stormwater bills. An estimated 105,000 households can benefit from the program. New York’s moratorium on water shutoffs expires after the new year. Helping to pay off outstanding water bills is an important step toward addressing the increasing costs of utility bills and the need for affordability policies that ensure everyone has access to clean, safe and affordable water.

Canadian and U.S. Funding Opportunities

The Five Star and Urban Waters Restoration Grant Program 2022 in the U.S. will make awards between $20,000 and $50,000 for projects that develop community capacity to sustain local natural resources for future generations. For more information check out the Request for Proposals.

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change will be spending $3.1 million over three years on thirty-two new projects under the Great Lakes Protection Initiative. These projects focus on restoring water quality and ecosystem health in Areas of Concern, preventing toxic and nuisance algae, and enhancing engagement with Indigenous Peoples and the public. Recipients of the funding include Raisin Region Conservation Authority, Royal Botanical Gardens’ Wetlands Rehabilitation Program and Wasauksing First Nation.  The Great Lakes Protection Initiative is currently accepting new applications for 2022-2023.

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/freshwater-weekly/freshwater-future-weekly-december-10-2021/

Alana Honaker

THIS WEEK: Canadian Federal Government Underfunding First Nations’ Water Systems + Thank you for Your #GivingTuesday Generosity + U.S. Supreme Court Opinion Rules Groundwater Must Be Shared + Groups Convene to Talk Transboundary Water Issues at the Great Lakes Network Fall Gathering

Canadian Federal Government Underfunding First Nations’ Water Systems

The parliamentary budget officers report says the Liberals are not allocating enough funds for First Nations communities to operate their water and wastewater systems.  While the government has budgeted enough to address the capital costs to build water and wastewater systems over the next five years, they are short an estimated $138 million annually to maintain water and wastewater services on reserves, when compared to non-First Nations communities of the same size.  The Liberals made a promise in 2015 to end all boiled-water advisories of First Nations communities by 2021.  There are still 43 advisories on 31 communities with federally supported systems.  There are also a number of water systems that are deemed moderate to high risk of failure if not adequately supported. The human right to safe water should be of highest priority for everyone.

Thank you for Your #GivingTuesday Generosity

On November 30th, people around the world came together to thank, help, give, show kindness, and share what they have with those in need. Freshwater Future extends a heartfelt thank you to everyone who made donations to our #GivingTuesday campaign!  Your donations help us continue our impactful work to help people access safe, clean drinking water around the Great Lakes region.

U.S. Supreme Court Opinion Rules Groundwater Must Be Shared 

A long running dispute between Mississippi and Tennessee over ownership of a groundwater aquifer was recently ruled on by the U.S. Supreme Court.  They unanimously ruled that the aquifer must be shared, setting  a precedent for other states in the future on how they will handle water disputes as water becomes more scarce in the midst of climate change. This ruling affirms the idea behind eastern water law of reasonable use.  In other words, you can’t claim rights to all of the water by being the first to use it, instead you have to use shared water reasonably so it doesn’t impact your neighbors.

Groups Convene to Talk Transboundary Water Issues at the Great Lakes Network Fall Gathering

Big threats to the health of our Great Lakes require partnerships and teamwork. The Great Lakes Network was created to bring together an array of diverse perspectives and backgrounds to foster creative problem solving and innovation to advance water policy. More than 40 people representing grassroots groups to large non-profits, from Minnesota to New York and Ontario, and everywhere in-between, convened virtually on November 17-18 to celebrate and strengthen collaborative efforts.  Kristy Meyer, Associate Director for Freshwater Future and coordinator of the Great Lakes Network shared, “When we unite we can create win-win-win solutions for the health of the Great Lakes, people, and wildlife.”  Visit the Great Lakes Network webpage to learn more and to become a member.

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/freshwater-weekly/freshwater-future-weekly-december-3-2021/

Alana Honaker

THIS WEEK: Give the Gift of Clean Water on #GivingTuesday – Nov. 30th + Communities Working Together to Solve Lead in Water Problems! + Cookbook Features History and Recipes from Tribal Communities + Ontario’s Carruthers Creek Faces Threats from Hospital Development

Give the Gift of Clean Water on #GivingTuesday – November 30th

#GivingTuesday is a global day of generosity taking place on November 30th. This day is an opportunity for people around the world to come together to thank, help, give, show kindness, and share what they have with those in need. Across the Great Lakes, Freshwater Future believes building the capacity of local groups and community is the best way to help everyone in the region access clean, safe, and affordable water. We are committed to finding solutions that make real, lasting change for every Great Lakes community. Please support these efforts on #GivingTuesday by making a financial gift, no matter the size. Click here to give your gift today. Thank you!

Communities Working Together to Solve Lead in Water Problems!

The Flint Community Water Lab and the Benton Harbor Community Water Council have both been ensuring residents in their communities have access to safe drinking water.  In Flint, the Water Lab was created specifically to help residents understand and trust the water in their own homes.  In Benton Harbor, the Water Council has been key in advocating for solutions to the high lead levels in public water and are now delivering water door to door on behalf of the state.  The youth leaders in these communities will soon come together in Benton Harbor to collect water samples that will be analyzed at the Water Lab.

As the Water Lab recently celebrated achieving its weekly goal for helping 100 residents per week understand the water safety in their own homes, the youth and adult leaders couldn’t wait to extend their services to helping residents in another city with a similar problem.  We congratulate both of these amazing community groups in achieving their goals of helping their respective communities and working together to find community driven and centered solutions.

Cookbook Features History and Recipes from Tribal Communities

Manoomin or wild rice means the good berry in Anishinaabemowin and is highly valued not only for food but culturally and spiritually.  Tashia Hart, an ethnobotanist who has learned the food of her ancestors authored a cookbook that celebrates manoomin and other wild food with recipes entitled The Good Berry Cookbook.

Ontario’s Carruthers Creek Faces Threats from Hospital Development

A proposal to develop a new hospital is being proposed in the sensitive headwaters of Carruthers Creek, a narrow cold water creek that flows into Lake Ontario. This small watershed in Durham region is currently in the ‘white belt’, an area of intense growth and development surrounding Ontario’s Greenbelt.  Development would significantly impact the watershed’s wetlands and other green infrastructure.  The Carruthers Creek watershed plan indicates a significant increase in flooding if these lands are developed.  Inclusion in the Greenbelt would ensure the long-term protection of this watershed. Freshwater Future Canada and Freshwater Future support the inclusion of the Carruthers watershed in the Greenbelt to prevent impacts to wetlands and green infrastructure and prevent increased flooding.

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/freshwater-weekly/freshwater-future-weekly-november-24-2021/

Alana Honaker

THIS WEEK: Special Focus Edition: Multi-Nation Negotiations

Indigenous Governments Invoking Their Treaty Rights in Line 5 Talks

In the ongoing battle to ensure the twin, five-mile pipelines that run under the Straits of Mackinac, carrying 23 million gallons of petroleum liquids daily, don’t leak into Lakes Michigan and Huron, twelve Michigan tribes have asked for representation at the Canada/United States treaty discussions recently invoked by the Canadian government.  The treaties between the tribes and the U.S. government of course far predate the 1977 treaty between the U.S. and Canada on the free flow of oil between the two countries.

Trudeau and Biden to Discuss Potential Nuclear Waste Storage In Great Lakes

The leaders of Canada, the U.S. and Mexico are meeting on November 18, with discussions to include, among many critical issues, the siting of Canada’s permanent nuclear waste repository – which could be on the shores of Lake Huron.  Michigan Congressional Representatives Kildee, Levin and Meijer are asking “President Biden to work with Prime Minister Trudeau to ensure that no nuclear waste is permanently stored in the shared Great Lakes water basin. In the 1980s, when the United States was exploring sites to permanently store our nuclear waste, the Canadian government opposed any potential sites that were in our shared water basins. Ultimately, the United States did not pursue this permanent storage site out of respect for our Canadian friends. Now, we urge our Canadian neighbors to extend us this same courtesy. We must work together to protect the Great Lakes.”

Great Lakes Reflections from COP26

Stephanie Smith, Freshwater Future’s Board Chair and principal at Zephyr Mangata, a consultancy accelerating positive change for people and the planet, traveled to Scotland for the COP26 Climate Change Conference.  Read about Stephanie’s reflections on the conference, both positive results and clear needs for more urgent and accelerated actions. For more on the results of the governments’ actions at the conference, click here.

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/freshwater-weekly/freshwater-future-weekly-november-19-2021/

Alana Honaker

THIS WEEK: U.S. Passes Over $1 Trillion Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act + Benton Harbor Community Water Council Persistence Results in Actions + Ontario government provides $2.5 million for community-based Great Lakes initiatives + Five Things You Can Do to Protect the Great Lakes + Funding for Fish and Wildlife Restoration Available + Update on Asphalt Plant Near Flint, Michigan

U.S. Passes Over $1 Trillion Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act

Late Friday night, November 5th, the U.S. House passed the Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act, which awaits President Biden’s signature. The bill provides investments in our nation’s drinking water, wastewater, stormwater infrastructure, and includes grants to environmental justice and disadvantaged communities. Freshwater Future staff have been meeting with Congressional members to stress the importance of fully funding lead service line replacement and water access programs to ensure no parent worries if the water they are providing their children is tainted with lead and everyone has access to clean, safe, and affordable water in their homes. Learn more about what the Bi-partisan Infrastructure Bill and Build Back Better Act mean for water funding.

Benton Harbor Community Water Council: Persistence Results in Actions

For over three years Freshwater Future has worked closely with the Benton Harbor Community Water Council (BHCWC) of Benton Harbor, Michigan to protect its residents from high levels of lead found in the city’s drinking water.  Because no amount of lead is safe, residents have needed alternative water, filters and educational information.

Recently Governor Whitmer announced an all-hands-on-deck approach directing all of the state’s resources to Benton Harbor’s water crisis. This action comes after years of struggle by Benton Harbor residents to be heard outside of their community in order to secure the resources needed to safeguard public health in the city from lead.  Benton Harbor’s story is another lesson and opportunity for decision makers to listen to residents’ priorities and concerns.  Click here to learn more

Ontario Government Provides $2.5 Million for Community-Based Great Lakes Initiatives

Ontario approved $2.5 funding for 19 projects to reduce contaminants and nutrients that enter the Great Lakes and lead to issues such as harmful algal blooms (HABs).  A couple of projects funded include the Ausable Bayfield, Conservation Authority to provide soil management and crop production support to farmers and support to the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association to develop a Soil Health Mobile Technology Suite to demonstrate the impacts of soil compaction on soil health. These projects are part of the Canada-Ontario Great Lakes Agreement that Freshwater Future Canada and our partners helped to establish.

Five Things You Can Do to Protect the Great Lakes

Small actions can make a big difference! At Freshwater Future, we help thousands of communities around the Great Lakes protect their drinking water and local waters. Individual actions are powerful, too! Here are five little things with big impact that you can do to help keep our lakes healthy and clean.

Funding for Fish and Wildlife Restoration Available

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is accepting project proposals to protect, restore and enhance Great Lakes fish and wildlife habitat that fulfill one or more of the six goals of the Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act. Click here to learn more.

Update on Asphalt Plant Near Flint, Michigan

A virtual town hall is scheduled for Flint Community residents to discuss Ajax Pavement, environmental justice, and what’s to come with the proposed pavement factory on Monday, November 15 from 11 am – 12 pm.

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy is expected to announce the permit decision for the facility on the same day. You can register for the town hall here.

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/freshwater-weekly/freshwater-future-weekly-november-12-2021/

Alana Honaker

THIS WEEK: All About Water’s Convening Returns Beginning of Next Year + Michigan Governor Using State’s Purchasing Power to Reduce PFAS + It’s at the Tap that Drinking Water Must Be Safe!

All About Water’s Convening Returns Beginning of Next Year

Freshwater Future’s All About Water convening in October was incredibly impactful. The focus was how communities can access federal water funds that are coming due to COVID-19, what the processes require, how residents can participate in the process and more.  We are especially grateful for a community-oriented State Revolving Fund 101 session that helped provide the basics of how these federal funds pass to states and are then utilized by municipalities.  Keep your eyes peeled for information in the coming months about additional convenings in 2022.  Remember to check out our Events page for a variety of future opportunities!

Michigan Governor Using State’s Purchasing Power to Reduce PFAS

Governor Whitmer recently issued an executive order requiring state purchasing to prioritize products not containing PFAS.  Although just a step in the right direction, it is a step we can all take.  Ensuring we use our personal spending power to move companies to prioritize elimination of PFAS in their products is a great way to create personal impact while we also push for the needed regulations to control, ban and clean up these toxic chemicals.

It’s at the Tap that Drinking Water Must Be Safe!

Chicago is estimated to have one of the largest inventory of lead lines within its drinking water infrastructure in the country. Yet Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot was quoted as saying “the water that we push out is pure and good.” And while that may be a true statement for what comes out of the plant, the problem with lead lines is that the water from the plant picks up contaminants like lead on the trip to the faucet.  At the end of the day, what every resident wants and deserves is clean, safe and affordable water at their tap, regardless of what may be at the plant.

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/freshwater-weekly/freshwater-future-weekly-november-5-2021/

Alana Honaker

THIS WEEK: WIN – States’ and Tribes’ Authority to Prevent Harm from Federal Projects Restored + Radio-Canada Interview with Freshwater Future Canada on the Warming Lakes + Michigan Water Bottler Changing Permit Request + Opportunity to Provide Input to Ontario on Great Lakes Strategy

WIN: States’ and Tribes’ Authority to Prevent Harm from Federal Projects Restored 

A federal judge in California vacated a rule from the last administration that limited the power of states and tribes to prevent harmful impacts to their waters from federal projects including pipelines. Environmental groups and states brought suits against the rule, because this is an important safeguard for water, air and other resources.  The U.S. EPA is in the process of developing a new rule, but until then the previous rule will apply, allowing tribes and states previous authority.

Radio-Canada Interview with Freshwater Future Canada on the Warming Lakes

Andrea Dube, Program Director for Freshwater Future Canada recently spoke on Radio-Canada about the impact of climate change on warming of the Great Lakes.  Even historically cold, deep Lake Superior is warming and at a fast rate.  Check out  the conversation here.

Michigan Water Bottler Changing Permit Request   

Freshwater Future has supported Michigan Citizens for Water Conservation in its amazing, decades-long battles to protect streams and wetlands where the former owner Nestle and current owner Blue Triton pump their water for bottling. With a recent announcement by the bottler that they are no longer seeking an increase to their permitted pumping amount, Michigan Citizens for Water Conservation explains why their court battle remains so important.

Opportunity to Provide Input to Ontario on Great Lakes Strategy

The Great Lakes Protection Act, 2015 requires the Ontario government to report on progress made to protect and restore the Great Lakes every 3 years and to review and renew the Great Lakes Strategy every 6 years.  The first progress report on the Act was released in 2016.  This fall, the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks is planning to seek input on key priorities for the Great Lakes basin in 2021 and beyond, including emerging risks/issues and opportunities.  Details on the ministry’s engagement process are not yet available. To be notified of opportunities for input, contact the Great Lakes Office at GLO@ontario.ca.

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/freshwater-weekly/freshwater-future-weekly-october-29-2021/

Alana Honaker

THIS WEEK: Don’t Miss the All About Water November Session on Water Affordability! + U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Finally Taking Steps to Regulate Some PFAS + Funds for Full Lead Line Replacement for Benton Harbor Announced but Continued Action Still Needed + Raw Sewage Spills Continue from Ontario Cities + Tribal & Indigenous Climate Adaptation Session Offered Oct 27

Don’t Miss the All About Water November Session on Water Affordability!

About 30 participants gathered virtually on Wednesday to learn about and plan to ensure that federal funds are targeting community needs in our communities during the 2021 All About Water Convening Session 1. Don’t miss out on Session 2 on November 17th where we will strategize and develop solutions to ensure water is affordable and safe for all. Register today! Please share with others that may be interested.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Finally Taking Steps to Regulate Some PFAS

We’ve covered the health impacts and long-life of PFAS chemicals, which have been known by industry and beyond for decades, many times. Yet until now, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has declined to regulate these harmful forever chemicals, leaving states to create their own regulations.  While the steps announced by the agency do not go far enough to protect human health, we are glad to see the administration move forward in taking these dangerous chemicals seriously.

Funds for Full Lead Line Replacement for Benton Harbor Announced but Continued Action Still Needed

Michigan’s Governor announced that Benton Harbor, MI will have all of their lead lines replaced in 18 months, a major reduction from their previous 5-year estimate. The State of Michigan finally stepped up its efforts after three years of high levels of lead in Benton Harbor drinking water.  Bottled water and filters are being provided until pipes are replaced and a water filter efficacy study is being conducted to determine their effectiveness at removing lead. However, ensuring that corrosion control is working in the city and that efforts are coordinated with local entities such as the Benton Harbor Community Water Council are critical to making sure disruptions to residents’ lives can be minimized.

Raw Sewage Spills Continue from Ontario Cities

Heavy rains and equipment failure led to over 350 million liters of sewage being discharged into Hamilton Harbour on October 3 and 4.  This is not an isolated incident.  Cities throughout Ontario are trying to manage increasing amounts of sewage and municipal runoff with obsolete sewage treatment systems.  Combined sewer systems, which manage storm water and sewage collectively, can handle moderate rain volumes. However, extreme storm events with large amounts of rainfall (which are increasing because of climate change) combined with increased development in urban areas, generate excess volume for treatment facilities.  Unfortunately, this results in raw sewage flowing directly into the lake.  Cities such as Toronto, Kingston and Ottawa are taking steps to address inadequate wastewater systems; however, large infrastructure improvements are far in the future.

Tribal & Indigenous Climate Adaptation Session Offered Oct 27

Many tribes and indigenous communities are leading on plans and approaches to adapt to climate change.  The National Adaptation Forum is sponsoring a four-part series to advance discussions about climate adaptation in Tribal and Indigenous communities. The first session is Wednesday, October 27th at 2 pm ET and will detail how the Pala Band of Mission Indians used its own adaptation experiences to plan for climate impacts such as the health impacts of climate-induced wildfire, drought, heat, storms, and flooding.

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/freshwater-weekly/freshwater-future-weekly-october-22-2021/

Alana Honaker

THIS WEEK: Learn About Federal Funding for Infrastructure: October 20 and November 17 + Benton Harbor, MI Draws National Media Attention for Lead Contamination + John Oliver Show Features Impacts of PFAS + Detroit Residents Please Consider Completing This Survey!

Learn About Federal Funding for Infrastructure: October 20 and November 17

Join us next Wednesday, October 20 for the first session of the 2021 All About Water convenings. Don’t miss out on these interactive events, register today. Please share with others that may be interested in these events.

Benton Harbor, MI Draws National Media Attention for Lead Contamination

After three years, the city of Benton Harbor remains out of compliance with state and federal Lead and Copper Rules (LCR). Since high lead levels were found in 2018, the Benton Harbor Community Water Council has been instrumental in collecting compliance samples required of the City, distributing bottled water and filters to residents, and providing education and advocacy for the community about the lead issue. A petition to the EPA asking for intervention to address the problem is receiving national media attention.  The Director of the Michigan’s Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy department stated that there have been improvements in corrosion control and “in general improvement overall.”  Freshwater Future will be reaching out to review the data.  Governor Whitmer announced additional support this week for Benton Harbor residents to access bottled water, filters, and prepared baby formula.

John Oliver Show Features Impacts of PFAS

Last week, the HBO late night show “Last Week Tonight with John Oliver” featured the toxic chemicals called PFAS.  The 19-minute segment provides a humorous but insightful summary of the complexity of the issue, including the need to regulate PFAS as a family of chemicals, instead of one by one, which has been the current approach of states.

Warning: Offensive language is used in the HBO segment of Late Night with John Oliver.  For adults only.

Detroit Residents Please Consider Completing This Survey!

The Center for Water Security and Cooperation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring law and practice guarantee equitable access to water and sanitation, is conducting a survey to better understand the challenges households face in maintaining access to water. The results from this survey will be used to advance more equitable access to water in Detroit and other communities. This data is critical to raising awareness of the experience low-income households face in maintaining access to water, and this will be highlighted prominently in the report. To help provide information, you can take the survey here. If you’d prefer to speak with someone directly, click here to provide your name and contact information.

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/freshwater-weekly/freshwater-future-weekly-october-15-2021/

Alana Honaker

THIS WEEK: All About Water Virtual Convenings, October 20 and November 17–Save The Date!+ Canadian Government Uses 1977 Pipeline Treaty to Keep Line 5 Open + Ohio Carries Second Highest Rate of Children With Elevated Blood Levels + Freshwater Future’s 2020 Annual Report Available Now

All About Water Virtual Convenings, October 20 and November 17–Save The Date!

The All About Water convenings will be held October 20 and November 17 from 9:30 am to Noon virtually due to the standing restrictions and risks of COVID-19. The October 20th session will focus on ensuring federal funds target community needs.  Water affordability strategy and solutions will be the topic for November 17.  Please join us to learn more about how incoming federal funds can be accessed and used to address water safety, climate adaptation and affordability at the community level. Don’t miss out on these dynamic events, register today. Please share with others that may be interested in these events.

Canadian Government Uses 1977 Pipeline Treaty to Keep Line 5 Running

The Canadian government has intervened in the dispute between Michigan and a Canadian oil company (Enbridge) regarding the on-going use of the Line 5 pipeline. The Line 5 pipeline carries up to 540,000 barrels of crude oil and natural gas liquids a day to Ontario and Quebec through the ecologically sensitive Straits of Mackinac, which connects Lake Michigan to Lake Huron. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has revoked the easement that allows the pipeline to cross state-owned lands because of the catastrophic risk it poses to the Great Lakes.  According to the Canadian government, the 1977 Pipeline Treaty guarantees an uninterrupted flow of oil and gas across the border and that disputes should be settled with bilateral negotiations or arbitration.

Line 5 was designed to have a 50-year lifespan but has been operational since 1953. There have been 29 reported spills to date. The leaking of over 126,000 gallons of crude oil offshore of southern California on Sunday is a harsh reminder of what is at risk to the environment and the economy.  Environmental organizations and Indigenous groups in Canada support Michigan’s efforts to shut the pipeline down and stress that there are viable alternatives to Line 5 that have not been appropriately explored.

Ohio Carries Second Highest Rate of Children With Elevated Blood Levels

According to the American Medical Association, studies show the state of Ohio ranked number two for highest recorded lead levels in children’s blood. In Ohio children, 5.2 percent have elevated blood lead levels, more than twice the national average of 1.9 percent. Older housing with lead-based paints and lead pipes carrying drinking water are significant sources of lead.  No level of lead is safe for anyone because lead is a neurotoxin that impairs motor skills and deteriorates cognitive abilities especially in young children.  Freshwater Future will continue to support efforts to replace the lead service lines in water systems to further reduce exposure to lead.

Freshwater Future’s 2020 Annual Report Has Been Released 

Freshwater Future’s 2020 annual report highlights our year’s work and demonstrates the strength and resiliency of our communities in the face of turmoil. Together, Freshwater with our partners from all over the Great Lakes region stepped up to redefine what impact meant, adapting to COVID-19, and furthering efforts to ensure drinking water is clean, safe, and affordable. To learn more about the work of Freshwater Future with its partners over the last year, click here.

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/freshwater-weekly/freshwater-future-weekly-october-8-2021/

Alana Honaker

THIS WEEK: Final Push to Support Freshwater Future + Millions of People in The U.S. Without Water + Industrial Spill Shuts Down Indiana Dunes Beach + Lake Erie Lawsuit Expects to Be the Largest Court Approved Total Maximum Daily Load In America + Canada’s First National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Final Push to Support Freshwater Future 

It’s our final push to donate to our Walk, Paddle, and Roll Fundraising Campaign. Freshwater Future staff and board have been raising awareness and funds by walking, paddling, biking, swimming, and other activities around the Great Lakes. We’ve almost reached our campaign goal! Thank you to everyone who has already generously donated to Walk Paddle & Roll. But we still need YOUR support to reach our campaign goal of $10,000 to support community groups across the Great Lakes with the tools and resources they need to help make their water sources safer and cleaner. Click here to donate today!

Millions of People in The U.S. Without Water

A compelling new video #KeepWaterOnTellCongress released by Human Rights Watch is urging Congress to make sure water assistance funding is included in the current infrastructure and budget reconciliation bills. Featured in the video, Water Warrior Monica-Lewis Patrick of We the People of Detroit and other advocates discuss clean water as a fundamental human right and highlight water equity disparities across the U.S. Click here to watch.

Industrial Spill Shuts Down Indiana Dunes Beach

Last week, Lake Michigan beaches were shut down at Indiana Dunes National Park after discolored discharge was reported following an industrial spill at the U.S. Steel plant in Portage, IN. Plant and local water treatment facilities are also temporarily offline pending further investigation and testing. While elevated iron concentrations are believed to be causing the discolored plume entering Lake Michigan, test results indicate that discharge of the toxic metal hexavalent chromium remains below permit limits. This comes after the company recently agreed to pay more than $1 million in fines and cleanup costs for a prior 2017 plant spill of 300 pounds of hexavalent chromium, more than 500 times the daily maximum limit allowed by the state.

Lake Erie Lawsuit Nearing Settlement That Targets Prevention of Algal Blooms

It appears a significant lawsuit on behalf of Lake Erie could be resolved by October 29th or sooner. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has agreed on a consent decree with attorneys for environmental advocates that will bind the state of Ohio to a restoration plan aiming to reduce harmful seasonal algal blooms in Lake Erie. After final approval, the agreement will be made available for public review and comment. The consent-decree lays the groundwork for creating the Largest Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL), limits for runoff pollution, in the nation.

Canada’s First National Day For Truth And Reconciliation – September 30th

Orange Shirt Day is a grassroots, Indigenous-led initiative that is designed “to commemorate the residential school experience, to witness and honour the healing journey of the survivors and their families, and to commit to the ongoing process of reconciliation”.  The day is named in honour of former residential day school student Phyllis (Jack) Webstad, who as a six-year old girl, had her shiny new orange shirt, bought by her grandmother, taken away from her on her first day of school.  While September 30th is meant to bring national attention to Truth and Reconciliation, all Canadians should make the commitment, every day, to listen and take action to move towards reconciliation.

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/freshwater-weekly/freshwater-future-weekly-october-1-2021/

Alana Honaker

THIS WEEK: Fall Project Grants Due September 30! + Minnesota Fines Oil Company $3 Million After Violation + A Cost-Effective Approach to Removing Heavy Metals from Drinking Water + Canadian Voters Elect a Minority Liberal Government (Again) + Water is Life Festival, Wins Grassroots Environmentalist of the Year

Fall Project Grants Due September 30!

The Freshwater Future Fall Grant cycle deadline is approaching quickly. Check out Freshwater Future’s 2021 grant opportunities guidelines to see if your organization is eligible.  For examples of past successful projects, check out our grant map. If you would like to apply and time is not on your side, contact us before September 30 to discuss how we may best assist you.

Minnesota Fines Oil Company $3 Million After Violation

In January, a Canadian oil company violated its pipeline construction permit by digging too deeply and hitting a groundwater aquifer that released millions of gallons of water into rare and sensitive wetlands. The company didn’t report the violation until June, six months after.  The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources ordered over $3 million in fines and is requiring restoration of wetlands.  A failure to report is reminiscent of this company’s response to a broken pipeline that leaked nearly one million gallons of oil into the Kalamazoo River in Michigan, one of the biggest oil spills in the U.S.

A Cost-Effective Approach to Removing Heavy Metals from Drinking Water

Scientists at Massachusetts Institute of Technology have been developing technology that could be much more efficient and cost effective in removing lead from drinking water at the residential level as well as industrial. The new approach uses energy shockwaves to detect and separate lead without having to remove the things that make drinking water healthy. The next step is to try it in a commercial setting.  If successful, it could prove useful in helping communities with lead service lines temporarily and cost- effectively protect public health.

Canadian Voters Elect A Minority Liberal Government (Again)

Canadians went to the polls on September 20 for a federal election.  The governing Liberals called an election in August in the hopes of receiving a majority mandate, but the vote resulted in an almost identical status to the pre-election government.  First Nations and environmental organizations worked diligently to ensure that there was national attention on issues such access to clean drinking water and climate change. The Liberal platform continues its commitment to ensuring that all First Nations communities have access to safe and clean drinking water. Although previous commitments have fallen short in terms of timing and actions, the broader Protecting Nature agenda includes a commitment to establish a 10-year, $1 billion Freshwater Protection Plan to protect and restore large lake and river systems, including the Great Lakes. On-going pressure to keep these commitments will be essential.

Water is Life Festival, Wins Grassroots Environmentalist of the Year!

The Water is Life Festival was recognized as Grassroots Environmentalist of the Year by the Northern Michigan Environmental Action Council.  Freshwater Future would like to congratulate all the candidates for their hard work to protect our water and natural resources, and special congratulations to Jannan Cornstalk and the entire Water is Life Festival team for their ongoing efforts!

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/freshwater-weekly/freshwater-future-weekly-september-24-2021/

Alana Honaker

THIS WEEK: Still Time to Support Freshwater Future + Emergency Petition on Behalf of Benton Harbor, MI Residents + Chicago Mayor’s Lead Line Replacements Far from Goal + Boil Advisories in Ontario Disproportionately Occurring Among Native Communities + Freshwater Voices Newsletter – Summer Issue Now Available Online

Still Time to Support Freshwater Future 

It’s not too late to donate to our Walk, Paddle, and Roll Fundraising Campaign. Through September, Freshwater Future staff and board have been raising awareness and funds by walking, paddling, biking, swimming, and other activities around the Great Lakes. We need YOUR support to reach our campaign goal of $10,000 to help make sure that community groups across the Great Lakes have the tools and resources they need to help make their water sources safer and cleaner. Click here to donate today!

Emergency Petition on Behalf of Benton Harbor, MI Residents

Benton Harbor, MI is finally receiving attention after three years of inaction on the high lead levels in the city’s drinking water. Last week, Freshwater Future was among a large contingency of organizations that filed an emergency petition with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) on behalf of Benton Harbor residents to provide immediate alternate safe drinking water sources, better education and outreach efforts to city residents, and ensure actions are taken to address corrosion of the pipes. While Gov. Whitmer’s recent announcement of $20 million to replace lead lines in Benton Harbor is a good solution in the long-term; the five-year timeline doesn’t address immediate concerns as the city continues to test high for lead in drinking water.

Chicago Mayor’s Lead Line Replacements Far from Goal

Mayor Lightfoot of Chicago, admired for her strong position on water security and safety, is sliding behind her lead line replacement goal of 650 for 2021, only replacing 3 lead lines thus far. Chicago’s estimated cost per lead line replacement far exceeds other cities at $27,000, while Denver’s totaled $10,000 and Detroit’s has been $5,000. The city has stated that it will hire outside contractors to speed up the replacement, but protecting public health, especially our youth from lead exposure, deserves action sooner rather than later.

Boil Advisories in Ontario Disproportionately Occurring Among Native Communities

While many Canadians consider access to safe drinking water to be a given; this is not the reality for many First Nations communities across Canada. Boil water advisories disproportionately impact First Nations communities. There are currently more than 40 boil water advisories on water systems that support First Nations communities in Ontario. Some of these advisories have been in place for over 25 years. Boil water advisories have significant, long-term impacts on the physical and mental health of multiple generations of First Nations people. While subsequent federal governments have made efforts to address this crisis, there is still much that needs to be accomplished to address decades of systemic inequity, insufficient funding and inadequate planning and implementation.

Freshwater Voices Newsletter – Summer Issue Now Available Online

The most recent issue of our Freshwater Voices Newsletter is now available online. Click here to access a full pdf version of Voices highlighting people and projects making an impact around the Great Lakes Region. If you would like a print version of the newsletter mailed to you, just send a request to leslie@freshwaterfuture.org.

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/freshwater-weekly/freshwater-future-weekly-september-17-2021/

Alana Honaker