Ontario (Page 4)

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/06/drinking-water-bottled-lead-infrastructure-bill-streams/

Rachel Duckett

New anglers could depress Great Lakes fish populations more than invasive species

On: June 2, 2021

In: Asian carp, Collaboration, Feature Homepage, fish, Fish, Birds and Animals, invasive species, Lake Superior, Latest News, News, Ontario, recreational fishing, Recreational Hunting and Fishing, Toronto

New anglers could depress Great Lakes fish populations more than invasive species

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

By Brandon Chew, Great Lakes Echo

More fishing trips could cause more damage to native fish populations in the Canadian portion of the Great Lakes than aquatic invasive species, according to a recent study.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/06/new-anglers-great-lakes-fish-populations-invasive-species/

Great Lakes Echo

Sarah Douglas: From Lake Ontario to the Tokyo Olympics

On: May 26, 2021

In: Beaches, Boating, Paddle Sports and Sailing, canada, Feature Homepage, Lake Ontario, Latest News, olympics, Ontario, Recreation, Recreation and Tourism, sailing, sports, Toronto

Sarah Douglas: From Lake Ontario to the Tokyo Olympics

Canada has nine sailors heading to the Olympics, six of which hail from the Great Lakes. Sarah Douglas is one of them.

“I’m excited, you know, I’m trying to treat it like any other competition,” Douglas said, “I think with the restrictions that we have, it’s going to be easier, the less distractions, but I’m just going out there to race.”

Douglas, a Toronto native who grew up in Barbados, will be competing in the Laser class in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/05/douglas-lake-ontario-tokyo-olympics/

GLN Editor

Chemical Impact: Microplastic pollution more complex than we think, says new research

On: May 4, 2021

In: Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Collaboration, Drinking Water, Feature Homepage, fish, Fish, Birds and Animals, Lake Ontario, Latest News, microplastics, News, Ontario, plastic, Research, Research, Data and Technology, science, Science, Technology, Research, Toronto, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts

Chemical Impact: Microplastic pollution more complex than we think, says new research

Microplastics act like a chemical sponge, soaking up contaminants such as persistent organic pollutants and heavy metals.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/05/chemical-impact-microplastic-pollution/

How Microfishing Took the Angling World by (Very Small) Storm

On: April 21, 2021

In: Collaboration, Feature Homepage, fish, Fish, Birds and Animals, history, History and Culture, Latest News, Minnesota, News, Ontario, Recreation and Tourism, recreational fishing, Recreational Hunting and Fishing, Research, Research, Data and Technology, science, Science, Technology, Research

How Microfishing Took the Angling World by (Very Small) Storm

By Ben Goldfarb, 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.

In the world of competitive sportfishing, the name Arostegui is royalty.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/04/microfishing-angling-recreational-fishing/

Hakai Magazine

Water Access: As moratoria on shutoffs end, old problems return to the forefront

On: April 20, 2021

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

Water Access: As moratoria on shutoffs end, old problems return to the forefront

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

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

Kari Lydersen

Drinking Water News Roundup: Ontario Indigenous lawsuit over water dispute, 50,000 sign up for Flint settlement, Ohio infrastructure loans

On: April 8, 2021

In: Drinking Water, Feature Homepage, Indiana, indigenous communities, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Quebec, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Wisconsin

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

Click on the headline to read the full story:

Indiana:

Indiana Lawmakers Amend Environment Bills as Deadlines Near – Chicago Tribune

Dozens of amendments to bills affecting Indiana environmental policy have sparked debate among lawmakers as the Legislature enters its final stretch of the session.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/04/drinking-water-ontario-dispute-flint-settlement-ohio-infrastructure/

Bolder Fish: New study looks at how pandemic antidepressant use might affect freshwater ecosystems

On: April 8, 2021

In: Feature Homepage, fish, Fish, Birds and Animals, Groundwater Contamination, Latest News, News, Ontario, Research, Research, Data and Technology, science, Science, Technology, Research

Bolder Fish: New study looks at how pandemic antidepressant use might affect freshwater ecosystems

As the pandemic wears on, antidepressant use is on the rise.

Claims for selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors increased by 17% in Canada between 2019 and 2020, according to one report. In the United States, the number of prescriptions filled per week for antidepressant, anti-anxiety and anti-insomnia medications increased 21% between Feb.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/04/fish-study-pandemic-antidepressant-freshwater-ecosystems/

Is the Line 5 tunnel a bridge to Michigan’s energy future or a bad deal?

On: April 1, 2021

In: Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Climate change, Collaboration, Drinking Water, enbridge, Enbridge Line 5 and Other Pipelines, Energy, Energy, Clean Energy, Ethanol and Fracking, Feature Homepage, Latest News, line 5, Michigan, News, oil pipelines, Ontario, Politics, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts

Is the Line 5 tunnel a bridge to Michigan’s energy future or a bad deal?

With climate action on the state and national agenda, critics of Enbridge Line 5 warn that investing in new pipeline infrastructure undermines Michigan’s pathway to carbon neutrality. Experts say it’s not so simple.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/04/enbridge-line-5-tunnel-michigan-energy-future-or-bad-deal/

Bridge Michigan

Salt Levels: The effects of wintertime de-icing linger in Toronto-area rivers in the summer

On: March 25, 2021

In: Feature Homepage, fish, Fish, Birds and Animals, Latest News, News, Ontario, Research, Research, Data and Technology, science, Science, Technology, Research, Toronto, Water quality, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts

Salt Levels: The effects of wintertime de-icing linger in Toronto-area rivers in the summer

As spring comes to the Great Lakes region and icy roads and sidewalks become a distant memory, a new study shows the salt we apply over the winter can linger in summertime rivers at alarming levels.

The University of Toronto study measured chloride in four Greater Toronto Area rivers and found it was high enough in many locations to put at least two-thirds of aquatic life at risk during early stages of their development.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/03/salt-levels-wintertime-de-icing-toronto-rivers-summer/

Canada Speaks: In Enbridge Line 5 debate, Canadian representatives point to the impact on their economy

On: March 17, 2021

In: canada, enbridge, Enbridge Line 5 and Other Pipelines, Energy, Energy, Clean Energy, Ethanol and Fracking, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Latest News, line 5, Michigan, Natasha Blakely, News, oil pipelines, Ontario, Policy, Politics, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, The States, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments

Canada Speaks: In Enbridge Line 5 debate, Canadian representatives point to the impact on their economy

In the ongoing conflict over Line 5’s presence and future in Michigan, much of the debate has been between the Canadian energy company Enbridge, Inc. and the state of Michigan, or between Michigan environmentalists and Michigan businesses.

A recent joint committee session in the Michigan Senate heard from a third party: Canada.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/03/enbridge-line-5-debate-canadian-representatives-impact-economy/

Drinking Water News Roundup: Lead in NY schools, Minnesota water exhibit, Wisconsin water week

On: March 12, 2021

In: Books, Authors, Art and Music, Drinking Water, History and Culture, Illinois, Latest News, Lead, Minnesota, New York, News, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin

Drinking Water News Roundup: Lead in NY schools, Minnesota water exhibit, Wisconsin water week

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

Click on the headline to read the full story:

Illinois:

Eaton Boil Water Advisory Lifted – Star Press

A boil water advisory announced Thursday for the town of Eaton has been lifted after the issue was repaired and testing showed the water was safe, the town announced Saturday night.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/03/drinking-water-great-lakes-lead-schools-minnesota-water-exhibit-wisconsin/

HotSpots H2O: Canadian Government Misses Target to End Water Insecurity for First Nations Communities

On: March 12, 2021

In: canada, Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Collaboration, Drinking Water, First Nations, Groundwater Contamination, indigenous communities, infrastructure, Latest News, News, Ontario, Quebec, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments, Water quality, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts

HotSpots H2O: Canadian Government Misses Target to End Water Insecurity for First Nations Communities

By Elena Bruess, 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.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/03/canadian-government-water-insecurity-first-nations-communities/

Circle of Blue

Too few farmers are curbing pollution in Lake Erie. Should they be forced?

On: March 9, 2021

In: Agriculture, Algae Blooms, Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Climate change, Collaboration, Drinking Water, harmful algal blooms, lake erie, Latest News, Michigan, News, Ohio, Ontario, Policy, toxic algae, Water quality, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts

Too few farmers are curbing pollution in Lake Erie. Should they be forced?

As climate change complicates Lake Erie’s algae problem, scientists say farmers must do far more to reduce phosphorus runoff. But will enough farmers change their ways without a government mandate?

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/03/farmers-pollution-lake-erie-regulations/

Bridge Michigan

Energy News Roundup: Q&A with energy secretary Granholm, Indiana enviromental bills struggle, Ontario rate payers prepare for hike

On: March 7, 2021

In: Climate change, Enbridge Line 5 and Other Pipelines, Energy, Energy, Clean Energy, Ethanol and Fracking, Indiana, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Latest News, line 5, Michigan, Minnesota, Natasha Blakely, News, Ohio, Ontario, Wisconsin

Energy News Roundup: Q&A with energy secretary Granholm, Indiana enviromental bills struggle, Ontario rate payers prepare for hike

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

In this edition: Environmentalists in Wisconsin sue EPA over regulation rollback favoring coal plants, bankruptcy plan for Ohio nuclear power company upheld by appeals court, Prairie Island tribe prepares for massive investment in renewable energy, and Ford Motors to invest millions for electric vehicle construction in southeast Michigan

Click on the headline to read the full story:

Indiana:

75 environmental bills were filed this session; more than two-thirds of them are now dead – Indianapolis Star

When the 2021 legislative session began, more than 75 bills related to the environment had been filed in Indiana’s General Assembly.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/03/energy-news-indiana-bills-ontario-hike-line-5-oversight-panel/

Drinking Water News Roundup: Climate change and Illinois water withdrawals, clean water for Michigan students

On: February 26, 2021

In: Chicago, Drinking Water, Feature-Chicago, Illinois, indigenous communities, Lake Michigan, Latest News, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, News, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Quebec, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Water Withdrawals

Drinking Water News Roundup: Climate change and Illinois water withdrawals, clean water for Michigan students

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

Click on the headline to read the full story:

Illinois:

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

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

Cross-border Concerns: Biden administration a new opportunity for Canadian cooperation over Great Lakes

On: February 24, 2021

In: biden administration, Budget, canada, green infrastructure, infrastructure, Latest News, News, Ontario, Politics, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Quebec, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments

Cross-border Concerns: Biden administration a new opportunity for Canadian cooperation over Great Lakes

Great Lakes watchers were pleased that newly elected President Joe Biden’s first phone call to a foreign leader went to Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, hoping the call signals the beginning of more harmonious relations in the basin.

The previous four years under Donald Trump had been rocky.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/02/cross-border-biden-administration-canada-cooperation-great-lakes/

Andrew Reeves

Nestlé Exit: North American bottled water brands sold to investment firm

On: February 18, 2021

In: Drinking Water, Latest News, Michigan, Natasha Blakely, Nestle, News, Ontario, Water Withdrawals

Nestlé Exit: North American bottled water brands sold to investment firm

The years-long saga surrounding Nestlé and its Michigan groundwater withdrawals comes to an end – in a way – as Nestlé withdraws from the situation, selling its North American water brands to another corporation.

Nestlé announced this week that it unloaded a number of U.S. and Canadian brands, including Poland Spring Brand 100% Natural Spring Water, Ice Mountain Brand 100% Natural Spring Water and Pure Life.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/02/nestle-north-america-bottled-water-brands-sold-investment-firm/

Road Salt: Researchers look at vegetables and juices for alternatives to salt

On: February 17, 2021

In: Drinking Water, Groundwater Contamination, Illinois, Kathy Johnson, Latest News, Michigan, News, Ontario, Research, Research, Data and Technology, Science, Technology, Research, snow, Water quality, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts

Road Salt: Researchers look at vegetables and juices for alternatives to salt

Salt-speckled sidewalks, driveways and highways are synonymous with winter in the Great Lakes region. But while road salt is highly effective at deicing surfaces, the safety that salt provides for humans places a heavy burden on freshwater ecosystems.

“We have an unhealthy addiction to road salt,” said Claire Oswald, a hydrologist and associate professor at Ryerson University in Toronto, Ontario.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/02/road-salt-reducing-usage-great-lakes-freshwater-ecosystem/

Kathy Johnson

Drinking Water Roundup: Dispute between two Waukeshas over Lake Michigan diversion, Ontario infrastructure grants

On: February 12, 2021

In: Drinking Water, Energy, Clean Energy, Ethanol and Fracking, Groundwater Contamination, Illinois, Indiana, infrastructure, Lake Michigan, Latest News, Minnesota, News, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Water Withdrawals, waukesha, Wisconsin

Drinking Water Roundup: Dispute between two Waukeshas over Lake Michigan diversion, Ontario infrastructure grants

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

Click on the headline to read the full story:

Illinois:

Joliet Under Boil Advisory After Water Main Breaks – WGN9 TV

A series of water main breaks in Joliet this week prompted a boil water order in case of cross contamination during repairs.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/02/drinking-water-waukesha-lake-michigan-groundwater-contamination-ontario/

U.S., Canadian researchers conduct binational birds conservation research

On: February 5, 2021

In: birds, Collaboration, Fish, Birds and Animals, Habitat Restoration, Latest News, News, Ontario, Research, Research, Data and Technology, science, Science, Technology, Research

U.S., Canadian researchers conduct binational birds conservation research

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

By Yue Jiang, Great Lakes Echo

They glide over the lake, waiting for the best time to catch fish.

In the blink of an eye, they dive into the water without hesitation.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/02/u-s-canadian-researchers-birds-conservation-research/

Great Lakes Echo

Drinking Water News Roundup: Joliet picks Chicago, Minnesota road salt, Ohio EPA loans

On: January 29, 2021

In: Chicago, Drinking Water, Feature-Chicago, Illinois, Indiana, infrastructure, Lake Michigan, Latest News, Minnesota, New York, News, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Water Withdrawals

Drinking Water News Roundup: Joliet picks Chicago, Minnesota road salt, Ohio EPA loans

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

Click on the headline to read the full story:

Illinois:

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

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

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

Mussel-Phosphorus Puzzle: Invasive mussels are reshaping the chemistry of the Great Lakes

On: January 27, 2021

In: Algae Blooms, invasive species, lake erie, Lake Huron, Lake Michigan, Lake Ontario, Latest News, Lorraine Boissoneault, Minnesota, News, Ontario, quagga mussels, Research, Research, Data and Technology, science, Science, Technology, Research, Water quality, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, zebra mussels

Mussel-Phosphorus Puzzle: Invasive mussels are reshaping the chemistry of the Great Lakes

Since the late 1980s, four of the five Great Lakes have played host to an increasing number of invasive mussels. First came zebra mussels, followed shortly thereafter by quagga mussels, both members of the Dreissenid family whose native range includes the waters around Ukraine.

Today, the filter-feeders comprise more than 90% of the total animal biomass of the Great Lakes (barring Lake Superior, whose depth and water chemistry make it a less suitable habitat for the two species of mussel).

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/01/invasive-mussels-phosphorus-chemistry-great-lakes/

Lorraine Boissoneault

Lifeblood: Photographer shares the Lake Erie connection uniting shoreline residents

On: January 19, 2021

In: Algae Blooms, Beaches, Boating, Paddle Sports and Sailing, Books, Authors, Art and Music, Climate change, culture, harmful algal blooms, indigenous communities, lake erie, Latest News, News, Ontario, Recreation, Tourism and Culture

Lifeblood: Photographer shares the Lake Erie connection uniting shoreline residents

Along the shores of Lake Erie live a wide range of people whose lives might seem very familiar to or wildly distinctive from your own.

In the documentary photo series North of Long Tail, photographer Colin Boyd Shafer tells the stories of more than 20 residents of Lake Erie’s north shore.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/01/lifeblood-photographer-lake-erie-shoreline-residents/

Great Lakes Moment: It’s a UFO. No, the aurora borealis. No, it’s Leamington greenhouses!

On: January 4, 2021

In: Agriculture, Detroit, detroit river, Feature Detroit, John Hartig, Latest News, light pollution, Michigan, News, Ontario, Policy, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice

Great Lakes Moment: It’s a UFO. No, the aurora borealis. No, it’s Leamington greenhouses!

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.

If you gaze off to the east from Detroit, Grosse Pointe or Downriver, chances are you will see bright lights adrift in the night sky.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/01/great-lakes-moment-leamington-greenhouses-lights/

John Hartig

2020 Vision: Great Lakes Now year in review predicts 2021

On: December 28, 2020

In: Algae Blooms, Climate change, harmful algal blooms, invasive species, Latest News, Michigan, News, Ontario, Sandra Svoboda, Wisconsin

2020 Vision: Great Lakes Now year in review predicts 2021

This is part of a series in which the Great Lakes Now staff looks back on 2020.

It’s probably futile to try to find ONE moment that captures 2020 for Great Lakes Now, at least from my view today at my dining room table/desk on a grey winter day.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/12/great-lakes-now-year-in-review-predicts-2021/

Sandra Svoboda

Drinking Water News Roundup: Joliet water supply, contaminated water, support for Wisconsin farmers and water quality

On: December 23, 2020

In: Agriculture, Chicago, contaminated groundwater, Drinking Water, Feature-Chicago, Groundwater Contamination, Illinois, Indiana, indigenous communities, infrastructure, Lake Michigan, Latest News, Michigan, New York, News, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Quebec, Water Withdrawals, Wisconsin

Drinking Water News Roundup: Joliet water supply, contaminated water, support for Wisconsin farmers and water quality

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

Click on the headline to read the full story:

Illinois:

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

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

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

Great Lakes Gift Guide 2020: Remember that road trip, boat ride, microbrew or sweatshirt you should’ve bought with this list

On: December 16, 2020

In: Books, Books, Authors, Art and Music, Buffalo, Chicago, Cleveland, Detroit, Duluth, Feature Cleveland, Feature Detroit, Feature Milwaukee, Feature-Chicago, Food, Grand Rapids, Illinois, Indiana, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Latest News, Michigan, Milwaukee, Minnesota, Natasha Blakely, New York, News, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Recreation, Recreation, Tourism and Culture, shopping, small business, Toronto, Traverse City, Wisconsin

Great Lakes Gift Guide 2020: Remember that road trip, boat ride, microbrew or sweatshirt you should’ve bought with this list

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

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

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

Family-owned fishing businesses displaced by waterfront developments on Great Lakes

On: December 11, 2020

In: Collaboration, Commercial Fishing, COVID-19, Cruise Ships, cruises, industry, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, lake erie, Latest News, News, Ontario, Policy, Waterfront Development

Family-owned fishing businesses displaced by waterfront developments on Great Lakes

By Hannah L. Harrison, University of Guelph, The Conversation

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

For three generations, the Minor family — today brothers Carson and Landon and their father Paul — have been up before first light to board their fishing tug and make their way to their fishing grounds on Lake Erie.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/12/family-owned-fishing-businesses-displaced-waterfront-developments-great-lakes/

The Conversation

Drinking Water News Roundup: Indiana utilities plan for climate change, Waukesha pipeline construction begins

On: December 4, 2020

In: Climate change, Drinking Water, Groundwater Contamination, Indiana, indigenous communities, infrastructure, Lake Michigan, Latest News, Lead, Michigan, Minnesota, News, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Quebec, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Water Withdrawals, waukesha, Wisconsin

Drinking Water News Roundup: Indiana utilities plan for climate change, Waukesha pipeline construction begins

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

Click on the headline to read the full story:

Indiana:

‘Will We Have Water When We Need It?’: How Indiana Utilities Are Preparing for Climate Change – Indiana Star

Just 150 miles from Lake Michigan, utility planners are worried about finding enough water to supply a growing Indianapolis because of climate change.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/12/drinking-water-climate-change-lead-first-nations-waukesha-pipeline/

Drinking Water News Roundup: Wisconsin sets caps for 22 contaminants, lead pipes more likely in POC communities

On: November 20, 2020

In: Drinking Water, Enbridge Line 5 and Other Pipelines, flint, Groundwater Contamination, Illinois, Indiana, indigenous communities, Latest News, Lead, line 3, Michigan, Minnesota, News, oil pipelines, Ontario, Wisconsin

Drinking Water News Roundup: Wisconsin sets caps for 22 contaminants, lead pipes more likely in POC communities

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

Click on the headline to read the full story:

Illinois:

People of Color in Illinois More Likely to Live in Communities with Lead Pipes – WBEZ.org Chicago NPR

Research has long shown that pollution often disproportionately affects low income — especially Black and brown — communities.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/11/drinking-water-wisconsin-contaminants-lead-pipes/

Plastic Trap: New project pulls plastics out of the lakes, one floating garbage can at a time

On: November 10, 2020

In: canada, Latest News, News, Ontario, plastic, plastics in the great lakes, Research, Research, Data and Technology, Science, Technology, Research, Toronto

Plastic Trap: New project pulls plastics out of the lakes, one floating garbage can at a time

An estimated 9,887 metric tonnes (22 million pounds) of plastics make their way into the Great Lakes every year. Now a new project aims not only to suck out some of that plastic but stop it from getting into the lakes in the first place.

It began last summer with Toronto Harbour’s installation of three Seabins – devices that look like trash cans in the water but behave like vacuum cleaners, said Christopher Hilkene, CEO of Pollution Probe.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/11/seabins-trap-plastics-great-lakes-canada/

PFAS News Roundup: PFOS in fish, Wisconsin standards in dispute, lacking regulations in Canada

On: November 6, 2020

In: canada, fish, Fish, Birds and Animals, forever chemicals, Groundwater Contamination, Indiana, Latest News, Michigan, Natasha Blakely, News, Ontario, PFAS, Research, Research, Data and Technology, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments, Wisconsin

PFAS News Roundup: PFOS in fish, Wisconsin standards in dispute, lacking regulations in Canada

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.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/11/pfas-news-fish-wisconsin-canada/

Drinking Water News Roundup: Illinois lead issues, Michigan citizen reporting, Canada First Nations water access

On: November 6, 2020

In: Drinking Water, Illinois, Indiana, indigenous communities, Latest News, Lead, Michigan, New York, News, Ontario, Quebec, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Wisconsin

Drinking Water News Roundup: Illinois lead issues, Michigan citizen reporting, Canada First Nations water access

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

Click on the headline to read the full story:

Illinois:

Sycamore, Illinois, Residents Sue City for Toxic Tap Water That Sickens Residents – Businesswire

Residents of Sycamore, Illinois, have filed a class-action lawsuit against the city of Sycamore, alleging that it knowingly failed to maintain its water supply and ignored problems with its corrosion control treatment.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/11/drinking-water-news-lead-illinois-michigan-first-nations/

Great Lakes produce new record for waterspouts in one week

On: November 5, 2020

In: Climate change, Collaboration, Latest News, News, Ontario, Toronto, weather

Great Lakes produce new record for waterspouts in one week

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

By Audrey Porter, Great Lakes Echo

The Great Lakes produced a new high record in its number of 232 waterspouts from Sept. 28 through Oct. 4.

It tops the previous highest waterspout outbreak of 88 waterspouts in the month of August.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/11/great-lakes-record-waterspouts/

Great Lakes Echo

Great Lakes Moment: Sacred Land of the Wyandot of Anderdon Nation

On: November 2, 2020

In: culture, Detroit, Feature Detroit, indigenous communities, John Hartig, Latest News, Lighthouses, Museums and Cultural Institutions, Michigan, News, Ontario, Recreation, Tourism and Culture

Great Lakes Moment: Sacred Land of the Wyandot of Anderdon Nation

Metropolitan Detroit sits on the traditional territory of the Wyandot of Anderdon Nation.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/11/great-lakes-moment-wyandot-anderdon-nation-six-points/

John Hartig

Summertime Spike: Great Lakes parks a source of balm and vexation for many during COVID-19

On: October 26, 2020

In: Beaches, Boating, Paddle Sports and Sailing, Cleveland, Climate change, COVID-19, Feature Cleveland, Indiana, Latest News, News, Ohio, Ontario, outdoor recreation, parks, Recreation, Tourism and Culture, Tourism, Wisconsin

Summertime Spike: Great Lakes parks a source of balm and vexation for many during COVID-19

Great Lakes parks have always been popular among outdoor enthusiasts. This summer, however, pandemic-weary residents on both sides of the border flocked to them – many for the first time – just as services such as campsites, visitors’ centers, washrooms and interpretive programs were closed to help contain COVID-19.

The spike in summertime numbers was doubly challenging this year as the lakes’ record-high water levels have washed away some beaches and trails.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/10/summertime-spike-great-lakes-parks-covid-19/

Drinking Water News Roundup: Illinois COVID-19 shutoff protections, Ontario First Nation evacuation

On: October 23, 2020

In: COVID-19, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Groundwater Contamination, Illinois, Indiana, indigenous communities, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, Minnesota, News, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Water quality, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts

Drinking Water News Roundup: Illinois COVID-19 shutoff protections, Ontario First Nation evacuation

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

Click on the headline to read the full story:

Illinois:

Illinois Activists Push for Stronger COVID-19 Utility Shut-Off Protections as Winter Nears – The Intercept

In March, the Illinois Commerce Commission announced an emergency moratorium on utility shut-offs to protect customers during the COVID-19 health crisis, but most major Illinois providers resumed service disconnections by late summer.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/10/drinking-water-illinois-covid-19-coronavirus-ontario/

Legionella and other dangerous pathogens still lurk in U.S. drinking water

On: October 19, 2020

In: Collaboration, Drinking Water, flint, Groundwater Contamination, Illinois, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, News, Ohio, Ontario, pipes, Water quality, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts

Legionella and other dangerous pathogens still lurk in U.S. drinking water

By Lynne Peeples, Ensia, through the Institute for Nonprofit News network

Before her 73-year-old mom contracted Legionnaires’ disease at a nursing home earlier this year, Monique Barlow knew little about the deadly pneumonia and the waterborne pathogen that causes it.

“Until then, I didn’t give it much thought,” says Barlow.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/10/legionella-dangerous-pathogens-drinking-water/

Ensia

Banned: Canada takes next step toward zero plastic waste by 2030

On: October 14, 2020

In: canada, Gary Wilson, industry, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Latest News, News, Ontario, plastic, plastics in the great lakes, Quebec, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments

Banned: Canada takes next step toward zero plastic waste by 2030

Canada took the next step in its effort to achieve zero plastic waste by 2030 last week when it announced a ban on certain single-use plastic items that its environmental protection and policy agency says are not often recycled.

The ban includes check-out bags, straws, stir sticks, six-pack rings, cutlery and foodware items, according to a press release from Environment and Climate Change Canada.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/10/canada-zero-plastic-waste-toxic-ban/

Gary Wilson

Drinking Water News Roundup: Wisconsin wells contaminated by sewage, First Nations boil advisories, lead pipes

On: October 12, 2020

In: Drinking Water, groundwater, Groundwater Contamination, Indiana, indigenous communities, Latest News, Lead, News, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Wisconsin

Drinking Water News Roundup: Wisconsin wells contaminated by sewage, First Nations boil advisories, lead pipes

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

Click on the headline to read the full story:

Indiana:

EPA Installing Monitors to Investigate City’s Tainted Water Plume – Kokomo Tribune

The Environmental Protection Agency is set to install six groundwater monitoring wells to investigate the contaminated water plume beneath much of Kokomo.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/10/drinking-water-wisconsin-wells-septic-first-nations-lead-pipes/

C+: Western Lake Erie receives mediocre score on new report card

On: October 6, 2020

In: fish, Fish, Birds and Animals, Indiana, James Proffitt, lake erie, Latest News, Michigan, News, Ohio, Ontario, Research, Research, Data and Technology, science, Science, Technology, Research, Water quality, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts

C+: Western Lake Erie receives mediocre score on new report card

Lake Erie’s Western Basin didn’t do well on its first big test: a report card produced by the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science.

The report card gave it a mediocre score, an overall C+, based on a various factors regarding the lake’s condition. The watershed surrounding western Lake Erie scored a C.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/10/western-lake-erie-mediocre-score-report-card/

James Proffitt

Canada Water Agency: Government hopes to consolidate water data and management

On: October 1, 2020

In: canada, data, Drinking Water, government, Latest News, News, One Detroit, Ontario, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Quebec, Research, Research, Data and Technology, Science, Technology, Research, The Provinces, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments, water, Water quality, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts

Canada Water Agency: Government hopes to consolidate water data and management

Canada is home to the third largest renewable supply of fresh water in the world, spread across a vast swath of lakes, rivers, aquifers and glaciers. Fresh water is critical to the country’s economy and health, and a key part of the nation’s identity – paddling a canoe through northern waterways is a rite of passage, and more than 30% of Canadians live surrounded by water in the Great Lakes region.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/10/canada-water-agency-government-consolidate-water-data-management/

Blue Jeans Blues: Researchers find denim microfibers in Great Lakes

On: September 14, 2020

In: industry, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Lake Ontario, Latest News, Ontario, pollution, Research, Research, Data and Technology, Science, Technology, Research, Toronto, Water quality, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts

Blue Jeans Blues: Researchers find denim microfibers in Great Lakes

At any given moment about half the world’s population is wearing blue jeans or other denim clothing. And every time we launder our jeans, tiny string-like particles called microfibers come loose, flow out of our washing machines, down sewers and into lakes and oceans.

Now researchers at the University of Toronto say they have found denim microfibers in sediment taken from the Great Lakes.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/09/researchers-denim-microfibers-great-lakes/

One key solution to the world’s climate woes? Canada’s natural landscapes

On: August 19, 2020

In: Advocacy, canada, Climate change, Collaboration, Forests, Forests and Plants, indigenous communities, Latest News, News, Ontario, Quebec, Research, Research, Data and Technology, science, Science, Technology, Research

One key solution to the world’s climate woes? Canada’s natural landscapes

By Jimmy Thomson, The Narwhal

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

This is the first part of Carbon Cache, an ongoing series about nature-based climate solutions.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/08/climate-change-carbon-canada-natural-landscapes/

The Narwhal

Drinking Water News Roundup: lead in Pittsburgh, NY stream protection bill

On: July 31, 2020

In: Drinking Water, Groundwater Contamination, Indiana, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Latest News, Lead, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, News, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Water quality, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts

Drinking Water News Roundup: lead in Pittsburgh, NY stream protection bill

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

Click on the headline to read the full ory:

Indiana:

Third Annual Indiana Water Summit Goes Virtual, Presents Strategies For Water Protection And Local Management – WBIW.com

The White River Alliance, the premier organization for regional water resource protection in Indiana, is going virtual for the third annual Indiana Water Summit, a forum developed to examine the complex interests and issues that face Indiana’s water supply.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/07/drinking-water-lead-pittsburgh-ny-stream-protection/

Emily Simroth

Great Lakes Energy News Roundup: Ohio nuclear bailout repeal, Minnesota coal plants, Georgian Bay hydroelectric plant

On: July 29, 2020

In: Cleveland, Energy, Energy, Clean Energy, Ethanol and Fracking, epa, Feature Cleveland, Ian Wendrow, industry, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Latest News, Minnesota, News, Ohio, Ontario, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, renewable energy, Water quality, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts

Great Lakes Energy News Roundup: Ohio nuclear bailout repeal, Minnesota coal plants, Georgian Bay hydroelectric plant

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

In this edition: Great Lakes states join others to sue EPA over new reading of Clean Water Act rule limiting their oversight capacities, Minnesota regulators allow utility company to let coal plants sit idle for half the year, Ontario residents of Georgian Bay lobby against proposed hydroelectric plant, and Ohio’s governor seeks to repeal nuclear bailout.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/07/ohio-nuclear-bailout-minnesota-coal-georgian-bay-hydroelectric-epa/

Ian Wendrow

Drinking Water News Roundup: Ohio Resumes Water Shutoffs, Lead Exposure More Likely from Private Wells

On: July 15, 2020

In: Drinking Water, Groundwater Contamination, Indiana, industry, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, News, Ohio, Ontario, Research, Research, Data and Technology, science, Science, Technology, Research, Toronto, Water quality, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Wisconsin

Drinking Water News Roundup: Ohio Resumes Water Shutoffs, Lead Exposure More Likely from Private Wells

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

Click on the headline to read the full story:

Indiana:

Andrews Residents Told Drinking Water Is Safe, But Issues Remain – Indiana Public Media

When its water supply was running low in May, Andrews tapped into an unused well but was forced to shut it down again after the town found high levels of cancer-causing chemical vinyl chloride left over from a factory now owned by Raytheon Technologies.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2020/07/drinking-water-ohio-shutoffs-lead-exposure-private-wells/

Emily Simroth

Outdoor Escape: Visitors flock to parks, beaches, lakes as states reopen

On: July 14, 2020

In: Beaches, Boating, Paddle Sports and Sailing, Chicago, COVID-19, Duluth, Feature-Chicago, Illinois, Indiana, Latest News, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, News, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Quebec, Recreation, Recreation, Tourism and Culture, Recreational Hunting and Fishing, Tourism, Wisconsin

Outdoor Escape: Visitors flock to parks, beaches, lakes as states reopen

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

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

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

Emily Simroth

Unchanged Mission: Activists say a Nestle Great Lakes exit doesn’t resolve bottled water issue

On: July 9, 2020

In: Gary Wilson, Latest News, Michigan, Nestle, News, Ontario, Water Withdrawals

Unchanged Mission: Activists say a Nestle Great Lakes exit doesn’t resolve bottled water issue

Nestle might be selling its contentious Michigan bottled water brand, but water rights activists in the Great Lakes region aren’t so quick to let go of the issue.

Swiss-based Nestle recently announced it’s looking for buyers for its North America regional brands including Ice Mountain which has operated in Michigan since the early 2000’s.