On:
In: AP, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, flint, flint water, infrastructure, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Flint water main breaks prompt water conservation request

FLINT, Mich. (AP) — Water main breaks blamed on temperature fluctuations has prompted Flint officials to ask residents and businesses to temporarily cut back on water usage.

The water conservation request is through Wednesday, the city said Friday in a release.

Main breaks have impacted water storage supply in a reservoir and elevated water tower, according to the city.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/03/ap-flint-water-main-breaks/

The Associated Press

On:
In: AP, dam, Fish, Birds and Animals, Habitat Restoration, infrastructure, kalamazoo river, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, The States, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Michigan sues dam owner over sediment in Kalamazoo River

By David Eggert, Associated Press

LANSING, Mich. (AP) — The state of Michigan sued the owner and operator of a hydroelectric dam, alleging that its mismanaged drawdown of a lake to do repairs created sediment that has choked a 30-mile stretch of the Kalamazoo River, impeded recreational use and threatened public safety.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/03/ap-dam-owner-sediment-kalamazoo-river/

The Associated Press

On:
In: Buffalo, Cleveland, COVID-19, Duluth, economy, Feature Cleveland, Feature Homepage, freighters, Indiana, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Latest News, Minnesota, New York, News, Ohio, shipping, Shipping and Ports
The 2022 Great Lakes shipping season sets sail after COVID-19 hurdles

If you notice your packages arriving much faster than they did at the start of the pandemic, it isn’t just a minor coincidence – rather, it could be the Great Lakes shipping industry making a comeback after weathering the effects of COVID-19’s spread.

“(This) has been a bounce-back season from the COVID-induced lows of 2020,” said Jason Hron, director of communication and marketing for the Duluth Seaway Port Authority.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/03/2022-great-lakes-shipping-season-infrastructure-improvements-covid-19/

Maya Sundaresan

On:
In: AP, Drinking Water, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, wastewater, water infrastructure, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Task force looking at water infrastructure in SE Michigan

DETROIT (AP) — A group of government, business and nonprofit organizations is looking at water infrastructure in southeastern Michigan.

The current condition and actions needed for sustainable water infrastructure systems is the focus of the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments Water Infrastructure Task Force.

The task force also will address flooding issues, project funding, equity, affordability and other topics.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/03/ap-task-force-water-infrastructure-michigan/

The Associated Press

On:
In: AP, biden administration, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments, Wisconsin
Biden, Cabinet fan out around nation to sell domestic agenda

By Darlene Superville, Fatima Hussein and Chris Megerian, Associated Press

SUPERIOR, Wis. (AP) — President Joe Biden, struggling to regain his political footing as the midterm elections approach, visited the crucial state of Wisconsin on Wednesday to promote one of his top accomplishments, a bipartisan infrastructure measure that will distribute billions of dollars to fix roads, bridges and other public works.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/03/ap-biden-cabinet-domestic-agenda/

The Associated Press

On:
In: Budget, economy, Feature Homepage, Great Lakes Commission, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, New York, News, Ohio, Policy, Politics, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Sandra Svoboda
New national authority for Great Lakes region proposed by Ohio Congresswoman

Steadier federal funding instead of annual appropriations coming out of debates, direct investment for local communities to meet federal mandates, a dual focus on environmental clean up and economic development. 

Those would be three benefits of a Great Lakes Authority, according to Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-OH) who spoke today during the Great Lakes Week session organized by the Great Lakes Commission.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/03/great-lakes-authority-proposed-ohio-congress-marcy-kaptur/

Sandra Svoboda

On:
In: Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Climate change, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, flooding, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
What Michigan can do as global report details ‘closing window’ on climate

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.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/03/michigan-global-report-climate/

Bridge Michigan

On:
In: Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Drinking Water, funding, indigenous communities, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Latest News, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Billions Flow to Water Systems from Federal Pandemic Relief Funds

By Brett Walton, Circle of Blue

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

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/02/water-systems-pandemic-relief-funds/

Circle of Blue

On:
In: AP, biden administration, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments, Wisconsin
Biden to follow State of Union address with Wisconsin trip

SUPERIOR, Wis. (AP) — President Joe Biden travels to Wisconsin next week, the day after delivering his State of the Union speech in Washington.

According to the White House, Biden and first lady Jill Biden will stop in Superior on Wednesday to discuss how the $1 trillion infrastructure law will improve the state’s roads and bridges, among other things, and create jobs.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/02/biden-state-union-address-wisconsin/

The Associated Press

On:
In: Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Drinking Water, environmental equity, Environmental Justice, Equity and Environmental Justice, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Latest News, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Risky Drinking Water Pathogen Has Outsized Effect on Black Americans

By Brett Walton, Circle of Blue

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

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/02/drinking-water-pathogen-effect-black-americans/

Circle of Blue

On:
In: contaminated water, Drinking Water, Fish, Birds and Animals, Groundwater Contamination, Illinois, Indiana, infrastructure, Latest News, Lead, Michigan, News, News Roundup Drinking Water, Ohio, Ontario, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Drinking Water News Roundup: New DNA Computer can Reveal Water Contaminants, HydroOne Team Works Towards Cleaning up Oil Spill

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 Investing Over $16 Million in Jerseyville Water System – BusinessWire

Illinois American water plans to donate over $16 million to help maintain and transform the municipal water system for the city of Jerseyville.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/02/drinking-water-news-roundup-water-contaminants-oil-spill/

Maya Sundaresan

On:
In: AP, biden administration, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, lake erie, News, Ohio, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Biden: Infrastructure plan gives $1B for Great Lakes cleanup

By John Flesher and Zeke Miller, Associated Press

LORAIN, Ohio (AP) — President Joe Biden declared Thursday that a $1 billion infusion from the bipartisan infrastructure deal would restore the Great Lakes harbors and tributary rivers that have been polluted by industrial toxins.

The president ventured close to the banks of Lake Erie to speak in Lorain, Ohio, a small city that once housed a shipbuilder, a Ford plant and a U.S.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/02/ap-biden-infrastructure-great-lakes-cleanup/

The Associated Press

On:
In: contamination, Feature Homepage, forever chemicals, Indiana, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, Minnesota, News, News Roundup PFAS, Pennsylvania, PFAS, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
PFAS News Roundup: Bill proposes blood testing for Indiana firefighters, potential PFA contamination in Pennsylvania deer

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/2022/02/pfas-news-roundup-annual-blood-tests-pennsylvania-deer/

Maya Sundaresan

On:
In: Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Drinking Water, Feature Homepage, Grand Rapids, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect, road salt, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
A Grand Rapids lake and the consequences of Michigan’s road salt addiction

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.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/02/grand-rapids-lake-road-salt/

Bridge Michigan

On:
In: AP, biden administration, coal mines, Drinking Water, Illinois, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, News, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Biden plan to spend $725M to clean up abandoned coal mines

By John Raby, Associated Press

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) — Nearly $725 million in federal funding is available this fiscal year to 22 states and the Navajo Nation for the reclamation of abandoned coal mines and cleanup of acid mine drainage, the U.S. Department of the Interior announced Monday.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/02/ap-biden-abandoned-coal-mines/

The Associated Press

On:
In: AP, Climate change, Feature Homepage, infrastructure, lake erie, Lake Huron, Lake Michigan, Lake Ontario, Lake Superior, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Research, Research, Data and Technology, science, Science, Technology, Research
Scientists race to gather winter data on warming Great Lakes

By John Flesher, Associated Press

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (AP) — What’s happening in the Great Lakes during those long, frigid months when they’re often covered partially or completely with ice? A casual observer — and even experts — might be inclined to say, “Not much.”

Lake scientists have long considered winter a season when aquatic activity slows.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/02/ap-scientists-data-warming-great-lakes/

The Associated Press

On:
In: Chicago, Climate change, Collaboration, Detroit, economic development, Energy, Clean Energy, Ethanol and Fracking, Feature Homepage, green infrastructure, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, News, Ontario, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, renewable energy, Wisconsin
Great Lakes platform helps connect green investors with regional projects

By Kari Lydersen

This story was first published on the Energy News Network and was republished here with permission.

A two-year-old economic development partnership is helping to draw attention — and investment dollars — to sustainability projects in the Great Lakes region.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/02/great-lakes-platform-green-projects/

Energy News Network

On:
In: AP, Climate change, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, wells
Interior Department approves $1B to clean up abandoned wells

By Drew Costley, Associated Press

The Department of Interior is spending $1.15 billion to cap abandoned oil and gas wells across the United States.

There are over 3 million abandoned oil and gas wells in the U.S., according to the Environmental Protection Agency. And Interior officials say that wells have been exposing millions of people to air and water pollution for decades.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/02/ap-interior-department-abandoned-wells/

The Associated Press

On:
In: AP, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Lead, flint, infrastructure, Lead, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
US pushes for better tap water but must win over wary public

By Michael Phillis, Associated Press

ST. LOUIS (AP) — Angela Stamps won’t drink water from her faucet, showers less and no longer takes the baths she once found relaxing. She doesn’t cook with tap water and sometimes skips rinsing her produce.

Even though the amount of lead in Flint, Michigan’s tap water has been well below a key state threshold for several years, she hasn’t been able to stop worrying since going through the trauma of the city’s lead crisis.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/01/us-pushes-better-tap-water/

The Associated Press

On:
In: biden administration, Climate change, COP26, Enbridge Line 5 and Other Pipelines, Energy, Clean Energy, Ethanol and Fracking, Feature Homepage, Gary Wilson, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments
Biden’s First Year: An infrastructure win, but climate and justice plans struggle

In November 2020, shortly after President Joe Biden was elected, Great Lakes Now talked with University of Detroit Mercy  associate professor Nick Schroeck about the opportunities and challenges facing the president-elect. 

Schroeck is an environmental law attorney and urban policy expert who has a background in transboundary legal issues between the U.S.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/01/bidens-first-year/

Gary Wilson

On:
In: fluoride, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Some communities in Michigan opt out of fluoridation

This article was republished here with permission from Great Lakes Echo.

By Danielle James, Great Lakes Echo

Even as community water systems are praised by the state for maintaining fluoride levels, others are still holding out.

Fluoride strengthens teeth and reduces cavities by about 25% in children and adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/01/communities-michigan-fluoridation/

Great Lakes Echo

On:
In: AP, clean energy, Climate change, Energy, Clean Energy, Ethanol and Fracking, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect
Michigan governor releases plan draft for carbon neutrality

By Anna Liz Nichols, Associated Press

LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Michigan will build clean energy infrastructure and invest in green programs over the next 30 years with the goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2050 to confront climate change, a draft of a state plan says.

Gov.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/01/ap-plan-draft-carbon-neutrality/

The Associated Press

On:
In: Asian carp, Budget, Feature Homepage, Illinois, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, invasive carp, invasive species, Latest News, Michigan, Natasha Blakely, News, soo locks
U.S. Army Corps directs millions to Great Lakes coastal resiliency, Soo Locks and invasive carp barrier

The project to construct a new Soo Lock has been fully funded as of Wednesday, when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers released its Fiscal Year 2022 budget, which included $479 million directed to the new lock.

“In Michigan, we know how vital the Locks are to our economy and our national defense,” Sen.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/01/army-corps-millions-great-lakes-coastal-resiliency-soo-locks-invasive-carp/

Natasha Blakely

On:
In: Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Drinking Water, Feature Homepage, Groundwater Contamination, infrastructure, Michigan, News, septic systems, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Searching for help. Where can homeowners get money to fix failing septic systems?

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/2022/01/homeowners-money-fix-septic-systems/

Michigan Radio

On:
In: Climate change, Collaboration, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Latest News, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Research, Science, Technology, Research
Adapting to Climate Change Will Only Get More Expensive

By Michael Allen, Hakai Magazine 

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

 

As the climate warms, the price of adapting homes and infrastructure to cope with increasing temperatures, heavier rainfalls, stronger storms, and rising seas will be staggering.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/01/adapting-climate-change-expensive/

Hakai Magazine

On:
In: belle isle, Detroit, flooding, Great Lakes Now's Year-End Posts, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, News, Recreation and Tourism
Year in Review 2021: As the year ends, I’m still thinking about summer joy… and summer flooding

Like many people, I made some really big changes to my life in 2021. One of the more significant changes was leaving my former role at WDET, Detroit’s NPR station, and joining the team at Great Lakes Now as associate producer.  

Having joined the GLN team in October, it still feels like a brand new experience for me as the calendar year comes to a close, but so far, I’m learning a lot from Supervising Producer Rob Green and our fearless Program Director Sandra Svoboda.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/year-in-review-2021-summer-flooding/

Anna Sysling

On:
In: Duluth, Feature Homepage, infrastructure, Lake Superior, Latest News, Minnesota, Natasha Blakely, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice
Superior Stewardship: In Duluth, the Great Lakes are more than a resource, they’re part of an identity

Big waves pounding Midwestern city waterfronts are common images around the Great Lakes, which means communities are dealing with the impacts of storms that are increasing in frequency and severity.  

One of those cities has been making strides in improving its resiliency while preserving its culture – Duluth, Minnesota. 

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/superior-stewardship-duluth/

Natasha Blakely

On:
In: AP, contamination, Groundwater Contamination, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, infrastucture, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Waste, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
EPA releases $1B to clean up toxic waste sites in 24 states

By Michael Rubinkam, Associated Press

Nearly 50 toxic waste sites around the U.S. will be cleaned up, and ongoing work at dozens of others will get a funding boost, as federal environmental officials announced Friday a $1 billion infusion to the Superfund program.

The money comes from the $1 trillion infrastructure bill that President Joe Biden signed into law last month and will help officials tackle a backlog of highly polluted Superfund sites in 24 states that have languished for years because of a lack of funding, the Environmental Protection Agency said.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/ap-epa-toxic-waste-sites/

The Associated Press

On:
In: AP, Energy, Clean Energy, Ethanol and Fracking, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect, wetlands, Wisconsin
Court rules against proposed frac sand plant in Wisconsin

By Scott Bauer, Associated Press

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A state appeals court on Thursday refused to reinstate a permit for a proposed $75 million frac sand operation in western Wisconsin, a victory for environmentalists who have been fighting for years to protect the 16 acres (6.5 hectares) of pristine wetlands.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/ap-court-frac-sand-plant/

The Associated Press

On:
In: AP, Energy, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Michigan, News, pipelines, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice
US requires higher safety standards for more pipelines

By John Flesher, Associated Press

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (AP) — A new federal regulation requires higher safety standards for pipelines carrying oil and other hazardous liquids through the Great Lakes region, marine coastal waters and beaches, officials said Thursday.

The rule issued by the U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration designates those locations as “high consequence” zones where pipeline operators must step up inspections, repairs and other measures to avoid spills.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/ap-safety-standards-pipelines/

The Associated Press

On:
In: Drinking Water, Feature Homepage, Illinois, indigenous communities, infrastructure, Latest News, Lead, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, News, News Roundup Drinking Water, Ohio, Ontario, PFAS, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice
Drinking Water News Roundup: Infrastructure funding in Minnesota, Wisconsin, false confidence in Michigan 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 To Receive $1.7 Billion To Replace Lead Pipes—1340 WJOL 

Illinois is expected to receive roughly $1.7 billion from the federal infrastructure bill to help address the issue of lead pipes in the state. 

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/drinking-water-roundup-infrastructure-funding/

Maya Sundaresan

On:
In: Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, data, Drinking Water, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, News, PFAS, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Research, Data and Technology, water affordability
Rising Cost of Water in Michigan Leads to Affordability Problems

By Brett Walton, Circle of Blue

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

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/cost-water-michigan-affordability-problems/

Circle of Blue

On:
In: AP, Drinking Water, infrastructure, Latest News, Lead, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice
New lead testing method could reveal higher levels in water

By Michael Phillis, Associated Press

ST. LOUIS (AP) — For years, testing of the tap water in an upscale Detroit suburb showed the city was in the clear. Then residents got a notice seemingly out of the blue: Their water could be contaminated with elevated levels of lead.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/11/ap-lead-testing-method-higher-levels/

The Associated Press

On:
In: AP, Budget, Drinking Water, infrastructure, Lead, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice
Whitmer proposes $300M in water funding for communities

By David Eggert, Associated Press

LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on Thursday proposed $300 million in water spending to help local utilities address elevated lead levels, plan for pipe replacement and connect users of contaminated wells to municipal supplies.

The governor said the funding would expand her $500 million MI Clean Water Plan, some of which has been authorized since it was unveiled more than a year ago.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/11/ap-whitmer-300m-water-funding-communities/

The Associated Press

On:
In: AP, biden administration, indigenous communities, infrastructure, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Tribal Voices, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Tribes welcome infusion of money in infrastructure bill

By Felicia Fonseca, Associated Press

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) — Tribes welcomed an infusion of money in the massive infrastructure bill to expand broadband coverage, fix roads and address water and sanitation needs, but they say real change will come only with sustained investment.

President Joe Biden signed the $1.2 trillion deal earlier this week that includes about $11 billion in benefits for Indian Country, according to the U.S.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/11/ap-tribes-infusion-money-infrastructure-bill/

The Associated Press

On:
In: Buffalo, Cleveland, Feature Homepage, infrastructure, lake erie, Latest News, Natasha Blakely, News, Ohio, Science, Technology, Research, technology, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Erie Hack Finals: Is Lake Erie’s most pressing water problem toxins, agriculture or infrastructure design?

The objects wouldn’t look out of place as decorative lanterns or centerpieces. But the winner of the 2019 Erie Hack did more than look nice, it was designed to capture debris from stormwater – including plastic, waste and needles – that normally go rushing into Lake Erie whenever there’s bad weather. 

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/11/erie-hack-finals-toxins-agriculture-infrastructure/

Natasha Blakely

On:
In: benton harbor, Budget, Chicago, Drinking Water, epa, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, Feature Lead, Feature-Chicago, Gary Wilson, Illinois, infrastructure, Latest News, Lead, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice
Q&A: New EPA Great Lakes administrator talks Benton Harbor, infrastructure, AOC cleanup

Conservation action for Debra Shore started with the driveway at her suburban Chicago home.

It was asphalt, and she wanted to replace it with gravel to absorb the rain and keep pollutants out of the stormwater drains. But her town administration said no to the permit, though it eventually yielded.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/11/epa-great-lakes-administrator-benton-harbor-infrastructure-cleanup/

Gary Wilson

On:
In: Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, News, Research, Research, Data and Technology, Science, Technology, Research, sewer systems
Reduce flooding from backed up sewers? There’s an app for that

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/2021/11/flooding-sewers-app-research/

Michigan Radio

On:
In: Collaboration, Drinking Water, environmental protection agency, Illinois, infrastructure, Latest News, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect, Public Health, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Great Lakes groups hope EPA regional administrator revitalizes infrastructure, morale

This article was republished here with permission from Great Lakes Echo.

By Gabrielle Ahlborn, Great Lakes Echo

Environmental groups say they hope that a new Environmental Protection Agency administrator for the Great Lakes region works to restore infrastructure while revitalizing an agency they say is depleted and demoralized.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/11/epa-regional-administrator-infrastructure/

Great Lakes Echo

On:
In: AP, enbridge, Enbridge Line 5 and Other Pipelines, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, line 5, Michigan, News, Ontario, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments
White House: US will discuss Michigan pipeline with Canada

By John Flesher, Associated Press

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (AP) — The U.S. and Canada will discuss the future of an oil pipeline that crosses part of the Great Lakes and is the subject of rising tension over whether it should be shut down, the White House said Monday.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/11/white-ap-house-michigan-pipeline-canada/

The Associated Press

On:
In: Feature Homepage, freighters, infrastructure, infrsatructure, Latest News, Natasha Blakely, ports, shipping, Shipping and Ports, soo locks
In Progress: New Soo Lock looks at 2030 completion

The finish line is finally in view for the new Soo Lock, which was first authorized in 1986 and will help prevent the disruption of the supply chains in event of error or repairs.

“Having a new Soo Lock that has the same dimensions of the Poe and able to accommodate those largest freighters on the lakes will give us a great deal of resiliency and the ability to increase the time periods in which we do necessary repairs or maintenance or rehabilitation throughout the year,” said Lt.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/11/in-progress-new-soo-lock-2030-completion/

Natasha Blakely

On:
In: Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Climate change, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, News, Research, Data and Technology, stormwater
UM researchers think tech could help cities better manage stormwater

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/2021/11/researchers-tech-cities-manage-stormwater/

Michigan Radio

On:
In: Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Drinking Water, Feature Lead, infrastructure, Latest News, Lead, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice
Why are so many Michigan water systems finding lead? They’re looking harder

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.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/10/michigan-water-systems-finding-lead/

Bridge Michigan

On:
In: AP, Detroit, detroit river, Feature Homepage, flooding, infrastructure, Michigan, News
Soil hauled from Detroit park as part of storm water project

By Corey Williams, Associated Press

DETROIT (AP) — Tons of soil is being removed from a westside Detroit park as part of a storm water retention project to reduce flooding in streets and basements during periods of heavy rainfall.

The project at Rouge Park is expected to capture nearly 100 million gallons of storm water each year, alleviating pressure on the city’s combined sewer system, Detroit Water and Sewerage Deputy Director and Chief Engineer Palencia Mobley said Wednesday.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/10/ap-detroit-rouge-park-storm-water-project/

The Associated Press

On:
In: Climate change, Collaboration, Indiana, infrastructure, Latest News, Municipalities, News
Nearly Two Dozen Communities Awarded State Water Infrastructure Fund Grants

By Enrique Saenz, Indiana Environmental Reporter

Hundreds of Indiana municipalities applied for millions of dollars of state and federal money to fund much-needed water infrastructure projects, but only a few made the first cut.

The Indiana Finance Authority selected 22 municipalities out of more than 500 that applied to receive $63 million in grants from the first round of State Water Infrastructure Fund program funding.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/10/communities-awarded-state-water-infrastructure-fund-grants/

Indiana Environmental Reporter

On:
In: Budget, Chicago, Drinking Water, Feature Homepage, Feature-Chicago, Groundwater Contamination, Illinois, Indiana, indigenous communities, infrastructure, Latest News, Lead, Michigan, Minnesota, News, News Roundup Drinking Water, Ohio, Ontario, Toronto, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Wisconsin
Drinking Water News Roundup: Indiana iron spill, Michigan lead reduction plan, potential nuclear accident in Ontario

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.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/10/drinking-water-indiana-iron-michigan-lead-nuclear-ontario/

Maya Sundaresan

On:
In: AP, Budget, COVID-19, Drinking Water, infrastructure, Michigan
Whitmer signs bills to complete budget, hails bipartisanship

By David Eggert, Associated Press

LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on Wednesday signed off on $55 billion in spending to complete the state budget, hailing the bipartisan bills as an example of finding common ground with Republicans despite partisan tension during the coronavirus pandemic.

“This budget shows that divided government doesn’t have to be dysfunctional government,” the Democrat said at Lansing Community College.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/09/ap-whitmer-budget-bipartisanship/

The Associated Press

On:
In: AP, Drinking Water, infrastructure, Lead, Michigan, News
Michigan sending water, filters to Benton Harbor due to lead

BENTON HARBOR, Mich. (AP) — The state of Michigan will provide bottled water and water filters in Benton Harbor, where tests have revealed elevated levels of lead, a spokesman said Wednesday.

The action comes less than two weeks after about 20 groups urged the Biden administration to immediately step in.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/09/ap-michigan-sending-water-filters-to-benton-harbor-due-to-lead/

The Associated Press

On:
In: Budget, Drinking Water, equity, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, infrastructure, Latest News, Lead, Michigan, News, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Wisconsin
Community Assistance: Report finds disparities in drinking water fund distribution

Drinking water systems in small and more diverse communities nationwide are less likely to receive state funding through the Environmental Protection Agency’s Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, according to a recent report.

Through the fund, the EPA awards grants to each state and the states add a 20% match, according to the agency.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/09/report-disparities-drinking-water-fund-distribution-inequity/

Taylor Haelterman

On:
In: AP, Detroit, Feature Detroit, infrastructure, Michigan, News
Long-duration storm drops 1-4 inches of rain on Detroit area

By Corey Williams, Associated Press

WEST BLOOMFIELD, Mich. (AP) — Between an inch and 4 inches of rain fell on the Detroit area as of Wednesday morning during the latest batch of wet weather to roll through parts of Michigan and other Midwestern states.

The long duration of the storm, however, allowed rainfall runoff to enter storm drains, rivers and streams more slowly starting Tuesday afternoon, which helped the area avoid levels of flooding that submerged thousands of basements, dozens of streets and even freeways this summer.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/09/ap-long-duration-storm-rain-detroit-area/

The Associated Press