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In: Buffalo, Collaboration, COVID-19, Hamilton, Latest News, New York, News, Niagara Falls, Ontario, Toronto, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments
Shuttered Canada-US border highlights different approaches to the pandemic – and differences between the 2 countries

By Daniel Baldwin Hess, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York and Alex Bitterman, Alfred State College of Technology, The State University of New York, The Conversation

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

The United States and Canada have long enjoyed a stable relationship.

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https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/06/shuttered-canada-us-border-highlights-different-approaches-to-the-pandemic-and-differences-between-the-2-countries/

The Conversation

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In: Agriculture, AP, Indiana, News
Grant to improve soil conservation practices in Indiana

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — A $500,000 grant is expected to increase the number of soil conservation practices in Indiana and improve water quality in watersheds across the state.

The Indiana Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program announced the grant Monday.

The funding was provided from a legal settlement that was stewarded in part by the Indiana Wildlife Federation, according to the Indiana State Department of Agriculture.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/06/ap-grant-soil-conservation-practices-indiana/

The Associated Press

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In: Beaches, Boating, Paddle Sports and Sailing, Gary Abud Jr., Great Lakes, Great Lakes Learning, lake erie, Lake Huron, Lake Michigan, Lake Ontario, Lake Superior, Latest News, News
Great Lakes Learning: Take to the lakes without a boat

As the author of Great Lakes Now’s Collection of Lesson Plans, educational consultant Gary Abud Jr. is now providing more support for parents, teachers and caregivers who want to incorporate Great Lakes learning into their time with children and students. His series of writings can be found HERE along with the lesson plans and a Virtual Field Trip.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/06/great-lakes-learning-lakes-no-boat/

Gary Abud Jr.

On:
In: AP, Illinois, News, weather, Wisconsin
Cristobal to merge with new storm system after lashing South

By Jeff Martin, Associated Press Writer

Tropical Storm Cristobal could soon renew its strength by uniting with another storm system coming from the west to form one giant cyclone, forecasters say.

After drenching much of the South, forecasters now expect the remnants of Cristobal to bring fierce winds, heavy rain and thunderstorms to much of the Midwest by Tuesday.

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Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/06/ap-cristobal-new-storm-system-midwest/

The Associated Press

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In: AP, COVID-19, Detroit, Fatbergs, infrastructure, Michigan, News, Pennsylvania, plastic, pollution, water infrastructure
Epidemic of wipes and masks plagues sewers, storm drains

By Claudia Lauer and John Flesher, Associated Press Writers

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Mayor Jim Kenney kicked off a recent briefing on Philadelphia’s coronavirus response with an unusual request for residents: Be careful what you flush.

Between mid-March, when the city’s stay-at-home order was issued, and the end of April, most of the 19 sewer and storm water pumping stations in Philadelphia had experienced clogs from face masks, gloves and wipes residents had pitched into the potty, Kenney said.

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Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/06/ap-wipes-and-masks-sewers-storm-drains/

The Associated Press

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In: Cruise Ships, Gary Abud Jr., Great Lakes, Great Lakes Learning, lake erie, Lake Huron, Lake Michigan, Lake Ontario, Lake Superior, Latest News, News, Recreation, Tourism and Culture
Great Lakes Learning: Take a cruise and learn about the lakes

As the author of Great Lakes Now’s Collection of Lesson Plans, educational consultant Gary Abud Jr. is now providing more support for parents, teachers and caregivers who want to incorporate Great Lakes learning into their time with children and students. His series of writings can be found HERE along with the lesson plans and a Virtual Field Trip.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/06/great-lakes-learning-cruises/

Gary Abud Jr.

On:
In: Duluth, Latest News, Michigan, Minnesota, News, PFAS, Wisconsin
PFAS News Roundup: Hunting and fishing restrictions expanded, Duluth water safe, attorneys general urge stricter action

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/2020/06/pfas-hunting-fishing-michigan-duluth-water-epa/

Natasha Blakely

On:
In: Gary Abud Jr., Great Lakes, Great Lakes Learning, lake erie, Lake Huron, Lake Michigan, Lake Ontario, Lake Superior, Latest News, News
Great Lakes Learning: Water levels, currents and boating speed limits

As the author of Great Lakes Now’s Collection of Lesson Plans, educational consultant Gary Abud Jr. is now providing more support for parents, teachers and caregivers who want to incorporate Great Lakes learning into their time with children and students. His series of writings can be found HERE along with the lesson plans and a Virtual Field Trip.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/06/great-lakes-learning-water-levels-currents-boating-speed-limits/

Gary Abud Jr.

On:
In: COVID-19, Cruise Ships, cruises, Great Lakes, Ian Wendrow, Latest News, News, ports, Recreation, Tourism and Culture, Shipping and Ports, Tourism
COVID-19 Cruise Cut: Great Lakes cruise season postpones trips until 2021

Once left ambiguously up in the air, the rest of the 2020 cruising season in the Great Lakes has been officially postponed until 2021, due largely to preventative measures taken by both American and Canadian ports restricting cruise ship docking to halt the spread of COVID-19. 

When one of the largest players in the Great Lakes cruising industry, Victory Cruises, announced it would be cancelling its 2020 itinerary at the end of May, it became much more likely that others would follow suit.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/06/covid-19-cruise-great-lakes-season-2021/

Ian Wendrow

On:
In: Groundwater Contamination, indigenous communities, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Lake Superior, Latest News, Lorraine Boissoneault, Mining, Minnesota, News, Water quality, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Conflicted Over Copper: How the Mining Industry Developed Around Lake Superior

This is the first in a three-part series that will explore the history of Lake Superior and the Boundary waters, the communities affected by two proposed copper mines, the arguments in favor and against the mines, and what the mines might mean for the future of the Great Lakes.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

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Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/06/copper-mining-history-lake-superior-minnesota/

Lorraine Boissoneault

On:
In: AP, cleanup, epa, Groundwater Contamination, Indiana, News, restoration, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
EPA seeks comments on cleanup of Indianapolis Superfund site

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — The federal government is seeking the public’s input on its plan to clean up groundwater contamination at a Superfund site in Indianapolis that’s tainted with chemicals used by a dry cleaning company.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced Thursday that it would accept public comments from June 1 to June 30 on the agency’s proposed cleanup of the Keystone Corridor Ground Water Contamination site.

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Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/06/ap-epa-public-comment-indianapolis-superfund-site/

The Associated Press

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

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

That includes softening the impact we have on natural habitat.

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

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

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

Gary Wilson

On:
In: birds, Cleveland, Energy, Energy, Clean Energy, Ethanol and Fracking, Feature Cleveland, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, James Proffitt, lake erie, Latest News, News, Ohio, wind energy
Lake Erie Wind Farm: Siting board conditions might kill project

A $126 million, 20.7-megawatt wind turbine project on Lake Erie has the go-ahead from state regulators after years of halting progress.

If construction is completed, the six-turbine Icebreaker Wind farm in Lake Erie, 8 miles northwest of Cleveland, would be the first offshore freshwater site in the U.S.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

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Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/06/lake-erie-wind-farm-icebreaker-board-conditions/

James Proffitt

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In: detroit river, Habitat Restoration, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, John Hartig, Latest News, News, pollution, Region, Research, Research, Data and Technology, restoration, Science, Technology, Research, Water quality, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Waterfront Development
Great Lakes Moment: Investing in pollution prevention and restoration pays off

Great Lakes Moment is a monthly column written by Great Lakes Now Contributor John Hartig. Publishing the author’s views and assertions does not represent endorsement by Great Lakes Now or Detroit Public Television.

A new study on cleaning up Great Lakes pollution hotspots published in the Journal of Great Lakes Research finds that investing in pollution prevention and restoration pays off in the long run.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/06/pollution-prevention-restoration-study/

John Hartig

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

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

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

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Great Lakes Now

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

Natasha Blakely

On:
In: Gary Abud Jr., Great Lakes, Great Lakes Learning, lake erie, Lake Huron, Lake Michigan, Lake Ontario, Lake Superior, Latest News, News
Great Lakes Learning: Which is the best of the 5 Great Lakes?

As the author of Great Lakes Now’s Collection of Lesson Plans, educational consultant Gary Abud Jr. is now providing more support for parents, teachers and caregivers who want to incorporate Great Lakes learning into their time with children and students. His series of writings can be found HERE along with the lesson plans and a Virtual Field Trip.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/great-lakes-learning-best-of-the-5/

Gary Abud Jr.

On:
In: flooding, infrastructure, Latest News, Lighthouses, Museums and Cultural Institutions, Michigan, museums, News
Rescuing History: Museum experts across Michigan race to save the Midland archive

For three long days, Terri Trotter – president and CEO of the Midland Center for the Arts – waited anxiously for floodwaters to recede far enough that a team of experts could assess the damages at Heritage Park and the Doan Center in downtown Midland, Michigan.

The Midland County Historical Society Doan Center located in Heritage Park houses a research library and archive comprised of thousands of historical documents and photographs, Trotter said.

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Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/rescuing-history-museum-michigan-midland-flooding/

Kathy Johnson

On:
In: coal, Energy, Energy, Clean Energy, Ethanol and Fracking, Ian Wendrow, Illinois, industry, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Latest News, Minnesota, News, Ohio, Solar, wind, Wisconsin
Great Lakes Energy News Roundup: Ohio wind power in Lake Erie, solar projects stall in Illinois, major Wisconsin coal plant to close

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

In this edition: Wind farm project in Lake Erie approved by regulators with potentially major handicap, Minnesota legislature approves first-of-its-kind renewable energy project for Prairie Island Indian Community, COVID-19 choking solar power projects in Illinois, and Wisconsin’s Alliant Energy to close 400MW coal plant.

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Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/great-lakes-energy-news-ohio-wisconsin-minnesota-illinois/

Ian Wendrow

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

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

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

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Great Lakes Now

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

Natasha Blakely

On:
In: COVID-19, Detroit, Feature Detroit, fish, Fish, Birds and Animals, Latest News, Lighthouses, Museums and Cultural Institutions, Michigan, museums, News, Recreation, Tourism and Culture, Tourism
COVID-19 Connection: Pandemic provides an opportunity for fish and insects to bond

There are cockroaches roaming the aquarium at the Belle Isle Conservancy.

But don’t worry, they’re supposed to be there.

Unlike the smaller, more common roaches you might find in a dirty or old building, these cockroaches are Madagascar hissing cockroaches, who have their own exhibit at the conservancy and were given a chance to say hello to some fish while the aquarium is closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/covid-19-belle-isle-fish-and-insects-visitors/

Natasha Blakely

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In: enbridge, Enbridge Line 5 and Other Pipelines, Gary Wilson, industry, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Lake Michigan, Latest News, line 5, Michigan, News, oil pipelines, Water Withdrawals
Pollution, Permits: Enbridge, Michigan grapple with Line 5 tunnel project

The controversial project to replace the existing 67-year-old Line 5 pipeline in the Straits of Mackinac with a pipeline in a tunnel under the straits remains an issue between Enbridge Energy and the state of Michigan.

A new point of contention in the project is a new permit that would allow Enbridge to withdraw water from the Great Lakes and discharge wastewater.

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Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/pollution-permits-enbridge-michigan-line-5-tunnel-project/

Gary Wilson

On:
In: animals, COVID-19, fish, Fish, Birds and Animals, Latest News, News, Ontario, Recreation, Tourism and Culture, Tourism
Huge Interest: Aquatarium finds its feet during COVID-19 with virtual engagement

Masks or no, the otters at the Aquatarium at Tall Ships Landing in Brockville, Ontario, know exactly who’s in their den space.

“They really recognize us more by our smell and our boots,” said Jennipher Carter, senior aquarist at the Aquatarium. For the otters at least, adjusting to their caretakers all wearing masks didn’t take long.

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Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/ontario-aquatarium-covid-19-virtual-engagement/

Natasha Blakely

On:
In: AP, COVID-19, isle royale, Michigan, News, Recreation, Recreation, Tourism and Culture, Tourism
Virus upsets summer plans for Isle Royale park

HOUGHTON, Mich. (AP) — Wolves and moose won’t notice much human company at Isle Royale National Park.

The remote island in Lake Superior said it’s delaying the summer opening because of coronavirus restrictions. Camping might become available by late June or July but there will be no ferry service.

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Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/ap-isle-royale-covid-19/

The Associated Press

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In: AP, Beaches, Boating, Paddle Sports and Sailing, Climate change, COVID-19, erosion, Indiana, Lake Michigan, News, Recreation, Recreation, Tourism and Culture, Tourism
Indiana Dunes starts beach parking information line

PORTER, Ind. (AP) — Indiana Dunes National Park has started an information line to help visitors find an open beach with available parking amid severe shoreline erosion along Lake Michigan and the need for social distancing.

Beginning Saturday morning, visitors can call 219-395-1003 to hear recorded information on available parking at Indiana Dunes National Park beaches and nearby Indiana Dunes State Park.

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Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/ap-indiana-dunes-covid-19-beach-parking/

The Associated Press

On:
In: Climate change, Groundwater Contamination, infrastructure, Lake Huron, Latest News, Michigan, Natasha Blakely, News, pollution, Research, Data and Technology, Water quality, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
More Than Dow: Chemicals, contaminants and untreated sewage all washed out by Midland dam breaks

A lot of focus has been placed on Dow Chemical Company—which is headquartered in Midland, Michigan—after two dams breached and flooded many areas around Midland County including near a Superfund site.

Dow stated in a press release Thursday that there were “no reported product releases” and though the floodwaters entered an on-site brine pond used for groundwater remediation, “material from the brine pond does not create any risk to residents or the environment.”

But while there might not be new contamination issues to deal with, much of the progress on the cleanup of Dow’s last chemical contamination might be lost.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

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Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/chemicals-contaminants-untreated-sewage-midland-dam-breaks/

Natasha Blakely

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In: AP, Dioxins, flood, Groundwater Contamination, industry, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Lake Huron, Latest News, Michigan, News, pollution, Protect, Superfund, Water quality, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Flood raises fears of pollution at Michigan toxic waste site

By John Flesher, AP Environmental Writer

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (AP) — It took seven years to settle on a plan for cleansing two rivers and floodplains polluted with dioxins from a Dow Chemical Co. plant in central Michigan. The work itself has lasted nearly twice as long, with plenty still to do.

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Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/ap-michigan-flood-pollution-dioxins-superfund-site/

The Associated Press

On:
In: epa, Forever Chemicals Featured, Latest News, Michigan, Natasha Blakely, New York, News, PFAS, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Wisconsin
PFAS News Roundup: EPA says limits will take more than a year, Navy halts shipments to burn plant

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/2020/05/pfas-epa-limits-new-york-burn-plant-wisconsin/

Natasha Blakely

On:
In: AP, flooding, Illinois, national guard, News
Illinois governor activates Guard to help prepare for flooding

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — Gov. J.B. Pritzker has activated nearly 60 Illinois National Guard soldiers and ordered additional steps by the state to prepare for projected flooding along the Illinois River and other streams.

The National Weather Service forecasts the Illinois River will reach major flood stage Saturday morning at Meredosia, about 50 miles (80 kilometers) west of Springfield, and continue to rise through the middle of next week.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/ap-illinois-governor-national-guard-flood/

The Associated Press

On:
In: Climate change, Collaboration, COVID-19, flooding, infrastructure, Latest News, natural disasters, News
Is America prepared to handle natural disasters during the COVID-19 pandemic?

By Ari Kelo, theRising

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

From lengthened hurricane seasons to deadly bushfires, the natural disasters symptomatic of climate change are becoming more and more pronounced each year.

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Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/america-prepared-natural-disasters-covid-19-coronavirus/

theRising

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

By Patty Wetli, WTTW News

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

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

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

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

GLN Editor

On:
In: AP, associated press, COVID-19, economy, Food, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Michigan, News, Recreation, Tourism and Culture, Tourism, Traverse City
Virus threat creates unease in Michigan summer tourism haven

By John Flesher, Associated Press Writer

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (AP) — Clare Nagrant earns her living from tourism, so she’s taken a beating during the coronavirus-imposed shutdown. A few months ago, she was juggling four jobs. Now she’s down to one part-time gig with a distillery that stayed open by adding hand sanitizer to its product line.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

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Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/ap-coronavirus-covid-19-michigan-traverse-city-tourism/

The Associated Press

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

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

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

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

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

Gary Wilson

On:
In: AP, associated press, COVID-19, Lake Huron, Michigan, News, Tourism
Despite virus, Michigan groups aim to keep summer fireworks tradition

ALPENA, Mich. (AP) — Some small Michigan communities aren’t giving up on summer traditions despite the coronavirus.

The Alpena Municipal Council is giving people time to raise money for a July 4 fireworks show along Lake Huron in the northern Lower Peninsula.

Lafarge North America, which operates a cement plant in Alpena, will match donations up to $12,000, the Alpena News reported.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/ap-coronavirus-alpena-michigan-fireworks/

The Associated Press

On:
In: COVID-19, Detroit, detroit river, Feature Detroit, Feature Milwaukee, Lake St. Clair, Latest News, Michigan, Milwaukee, News, Ontario, Research, Research, Data and Technology, science, Science, Technology, Research, sewage, wastewater, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Wisconsin
Sewage Check: Great Lakes researchers look to wastewater for data on COVID-19

The virus can be detected in infected people’s feces – sometimes even before they begin exhibiting symptoms.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/sewage-check-researchers-look-to-wastewater-for-data-on-covid-19/

Sharon Oosthoek

On:
In: AP, associated press, crayfish, Fish, Birds and Animals, invasive species, Michigan, News
Marbled crayfish added to Michigan’s prohibited species list

LANSING, Mich. (AP) — A crayfish that reproduces by cloning has been added to Michigan’s prohibited species list.

All known specimens of marbled crayfish are genetically identical females that can produce up to 700 eggs per reproductive cycle without the need for fertilization, according to the state Department of Natural Resources.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/ap-marbled-crayfish-michigans-prohibited-species/

The Associated Press

On:
In: Climate change, Collaboration, COVID-19, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Latest News, News, oil, Pennsylvania, pollution, PublicSource, Waste
Four environmental issues in the Pittsburgh region to keep your eyes on in the age of COVID-19

By Oliver Morrison, PublicSource, through the Institute for Nonprofit News network

COVID-19 cost jobs, closed businesses and limited travel. But the economic ruin has also led to record low levels of pollution and huge reductions in climate change emissions globally.

Some of the changes, such as remote work, could have lasting benefits for the environment, even after the economy restarts.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/coronavirus-covid-19-pennsylvania-climate-change-pollution-oil-waste/

PublicSource

On:
In: Beaches, Boating, Paddle Sports and Sailing, Cleveland, coronavirus, COVID-19, Detroit, Duluth, Grand Rapids, Hamilton, James Proffitt, lake erie, Latest News, Michigan, Milwaukee, Minnesota, News, Ohio, Ontario, outdoor recreation, parks, Pennsylvania, Recreation, Tourism and Culture, Recreational Hunting and Fishing, The Provinces, The States, Toronto, Traverse City, Wisconsin
COVID-19 Next Steps: Great Lakes outdoor recreation begins move toward normalcy

After nearly two months of reduced access, various levels of restrictions and outright closures, thousands of national, state, provincial and municipal parks, boating ramps, wildlife areas and other outdoor recreation areas are making their return from COVID-19.

Officials are hoping the move will help push life closer to normal for millions of people.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/coronavirus-covid-19-great-lakes-outdoor-recreation-reopening/

James Proffitt

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

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

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

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

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

Ian Wendrow

On:
In: AP, enbridge, Enbridge Line 5 and Other Pipelines, Energy, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Lake Huron, Lake Michigan, Latest News, line 5, Michigan, News, oil pipelines
Army Corps to hear from public on Enbridge pipeline plan

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (AP) — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is preparing to hear from the public on Enbridge’s proposal to build an oil pipeline tunnel beneath Michigan’s Straits of Mackinac after determining the company submitted a complete application.

The Corps’ Detroit district office has scheduled a public comment period on the plan.

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https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/ap-army-corps-public-comment-enbridge-line-5-pipeline/

The Associated Press

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In: AP, Minnesota, News
Supreme Court: DNR can change name of Lake Calhoun

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — A divided Minnesota Supreme Court said Wednesday the state Department of Natural Resources has the authority to change the name of a popular lake back to its original Dakota name.

The state Court of Appeals ruled in April that the agency overstepped its authority in January 2018 when it changed the name to Bde Maka Ska.

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https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/ap-supreme-court-dnr-name-lake-calhoun/

The Associated Press

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In: Collaboration, Duluth, enbridge, Enbridge Line 5 and Other Pipelines, Equity and Environmental Justice, Groundwater Contamination, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Latest News, line 3, Mining, Minnesota, News, oil pipelines, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments, Water quality, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
What are Joe Biden’s views on two of the most controversial environmental projects in Minnesota?

By Walker Orenstein and Gabe Schneider, MinnPost, through the Institute for Nonprofit News network

In late April, former Vice President Joe Biden’s campaign held a virtual event with Minnesota supporters to promote the Democrat’s plans to address climate change and a clean environment.

But while U.S.

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https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/joe-biden-minnesota-mining-line-3-pipeline/

MinnPost

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In: AP, Buffalo, COVID-19, Latest News, New York, News, outdoor recreation, Recreation, Tourism and Culture
Locked down along with NYC, upstate areas prepare to reopen

By Mary Esch and Michael Hill, Associated Press Writers

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — As New York City confirms more than 1,000 new COVID-19 cases a day, bucolic Essex County four hours north tallied its 32nd case since the outbreak. But the mountainous corner of upstate New York is under the same statewide lockdown rules as the pandemic-besieged city.

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https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/ap-coronavirus-new-york-city-upstate-areas-reopen/

The Associated Press

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In: Collaboration, COVID-19, Duluth, Energy, Energy, Clean Energy, Ethanol and Fracking, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Latest News, Minnesota, News
In Minnesota, an innovative virtual approach to home energy inspections

By Frank Jossi, Energy News Network, through the Institute for Nonprofit News network

Armed with her cellphone, Ellen Biales spent an hour last month transmitting video of her St. Paul home to an energy expert who asked questions and dispensed advice.

Biales was among the first Minnesotans to receive a virtual Home Energy Squad visit from the Center for Energy and Environment.

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https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/minnesota-covid-19-coronavirus-home-energy-inspections/

Energy News Network

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In: enbridge, Enbridge Line 5 and Other Pipelines, Energy, Forests and Plants, Gary Wilson, Habitat Restoration, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Latest News, line 5, Michigan, News, oil pipelines, Science, Technology, Research, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, wetlands
Permit Pause: Michigan regulatory agency wants more info on Line 5

The state agency that has to green light Enbridge Energy’s controversial pipeline in a tunnel project in the Straits of Mackinac hit the pause button on the process last week when it told the company it needs additional information.

The new pipeline would replace the 67-year-old existing Line 5 that runs through the bottom of the straits.

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https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/permit-michigan-egle-enbridge-line-5/

Gary Wilson

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In: Groundwater Contamination, Latest News, Michigan, Minnesota, Natasha Blakely, New York, News, PFAS, Senate, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments, Wisconsin
PFAS News Roundup: Sen. seeks federal probe of Cohoes incinerator, PFAS actions added to Senate bills, DuPont foresees settlements

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.

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https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/pfas-new-york-incinerator-oscoda-senate-bills-settlements/

Natasha Blakely

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Minnesotans urged to fish close to home to slow COVID-19

By Steve Karnowski, Associated Press

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesotans should fish close to home to help curb the coronavirus pandemic when the walleye season opens this weekend, avoiding overnight stays and driving no further than they can go on one tank of gas, Department of Natural Resources officials said Wednesday.

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https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/ap-minnesota-fish-business-covid-19-coronavirus/

The Associated Press

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Shipwreck fragment emerges along Lake Michigan beach

LUDINGTON, Mich. (AP) — A portion of a shipwreck was recently discovered on a Lake Michigan beach near Ludington State Park and historians are working to identify the wreckage.

The fragment was revealed by waves amid high water levels on the Great Lakes. It was spotted by people walking on the beach, the Ludington Daily News reported.

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https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/shipwreck-fragment-emerges-along-lake-michigan-beach/

The Associated Press

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Great Lakes Learning: Freshwater science for the youngest learners – Part 2

As the author of Great Lakes Now’s Collection of Lesson Plans, educational consultant Gary Abud Jr. is now providing more support for parents, teachers and caregivers who want to incorporate Great Lakes learning into their time with children and students. His series of writings can be found HERE along with the lesson plans and a Virtual Field Trip.

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Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/great-lakes-learning-younger-learners-2/

Gary Abud Jr.

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In: Fish, Birds and Animals, Gary Abud Jr., Great Lakes, Great Lakes Learning, invasive species, lake erie, Lake Huron, Lake Michigan, Lake Ontario, Lake Superior, Latest News, News, watersheds
Great Lakes Learning: Freshwater science for the youngest learners – Part 1

As the author of Great Lakes Now’s Collection of Lesson Plans, educational consultant Gary Abud Jr. is now providing more support for parents, teachers and caregivers who want to incorporate Great Lakes learning into their time with children and students. His series of writings can be found HERE along with the lesson plans and a Virtual Field Trip.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

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Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/great-lakes-learning-younger-learners/

Gary Abud Jr.

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In: Detroit, detroit river, Fish, Birds and Animals, John Hartig, lake erie, Latest News, Michigan, News, Ontario, otters, Toronto
Great Lakes Moment: River otters return to western Lake Erie

Great Lakes Moment is a monthly column written by Great Lakes Now Contributor John Hartig. Publishing the author’s views and assertions does not represent endorsement by Great Lakes Now or Detroit Public Television.

Most people know river otters from zoos or YouTube videos as endearing playful creatures that can put a smile on anyone’s face.

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Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/05/river-otters-western-lake-erie/

John Hartig