Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice (Page 8)

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

Great Lakes researchers predict record-low ice coverage

On: January 18, 2022

In: Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, ice cover, Lake Huron, Lake Michigan, Latest News, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect, Recreation and Tourism, Research, Data and Technology, Science, Technology, Research

Great Lakes researchers predict record-low ice coverage

By 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.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/01/low-ice-coverage/

Work continues on removing lead water lines in Benton Harbor

On: January 18, 2022

In: AP, benton harbor, Drinking Water, Feature Lead, Lead, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice

Work continues on removing lead water lines in Benton Harbor

BENTON HARBOR, Mich. (AP) — More than 400 water service lines in Benton Harbor have been replaced or verified to be free of lead, according to state officials.

City officials also are reviewing bids from contractors for removal of an estimated 3,900 lead service lines, Michigan’s Department of Health and Human Services said this week in a release.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/01/ap-lead-water-lines-benton/

Drinking Water News Roundup: Toxic algae blooms in Indiana, First Nations $8B settlement, Wisconsin lead pipe replacement funding

On: January 14, 2022

In: Algae Blooms, Drinking Water, Indiana, Latest News, News, News Roundup Drinking Water, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect, Science, Technology, Research, toxic algae, Water quality, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Wisconsin

Drinking Water News Roundup: Toxic algae blooms in Indiana, First Nations $8B settlement, Wisconsin lead pipe replacement funding

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:

Indiana:

More blue-green algae could drive up drinking water bills in Indiana’s larger cities —WFYI Indianapolis

The increasingly warm air and heavy rain showers have caused a rise in toxic algae blooms, which has led to fish sickness, beach closures, and drinking water pollution.

In: AP, coal ash, Energy, Clean Energy, Ethanol and Fracking, environmental protection agency, Groundwater Contamination, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/01/drinking-water-news-roundup-toxic-algae-blooms/

Maya Sundaresan

EPA moves to crack down on dangerous coal ash storage ponds

On: January 12, 2022

EPA moves to crack down on dangerous coal ash storage ponds

By Matthew Daly, Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Environmental Protection Agency is taking its first major action to address toxic wastewater from coal-burning power plants, ordering utilities to stop dumping waste into unlined storage ponds and speed up plans to close leaking or otherwise dangerous coal ash sites.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/01/ap-epa-dangerous-coal-ash/

Judge: Lawsuit can proceed against Flint water contractor

On: January 11, 2022

In: AP, Drinking Water, Feature Lead, flint, Flint Water Crisis, Lead, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice

Judge: Lawsuit can proceed against Flint water contractor

FLINT, Mich. (AP) — A judge on Monday refused to dismiss a lawsuit against an engineering company, which is accused of not doing enough to stop the flow of lead-contaminated water in Flint in 2015.

Four families are suing Veolia North America. The company did not participate in the recent $626 million settlement with Flint residents, mostly paid by the state.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/01/ap-lawsuit-flint-water-contractor/

In: biden administration, Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, endangered species, fish and wildlife service, Fish, Birds and Animals, Habitat Restoration, Latest News, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments

A small, red-bellied snake might be reconsidered for protection under the Endangered Species Act

On: January 10, 2022

A small, red-bellied snake might be reconsidered for protection under the Endangered Species Act

By Lester Graham, Michigan Radio

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/01/red-bellied-snake-endangered/

Flint water crisis settlement claims process begins this week

On: January 10, 2022

In: Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Drinking Water, Feature Lead, flint, Flint Water Crisis, Latest News, Lead, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice

Flint water crisis settlement claims process begins this week

By Michigan Radio

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/01/flint-water-crisis-settlement-claims/

Environmental justice in spotlight as WH official departs

On: January 7, 2022

In: Advocacy, AP, biden administration, Climate change, Environmental Justice, Equity and Environmental Justice, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Trump Administration, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments

Environmental justice in spotlight as WH official departs

By Drew Costley, Associated Press

The White House’s top official on environmental justice is stepping down a year after President Joe Biden took office with an ambitious plan to help disadvantaged communities and overhaul policies that have historically hurt them.

The departure Friday of Cecilia Martinez, senior director for environmental justice at the Council for Environmental Quality, puts a spotlight on both the administration’s successes and promises yet to be fulfilled.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/01/ap-environmental-justice-official/

Ohio company will pay nearly $250K for Michigan fish kill

On: January 7, 2022

In: AP, fish, Fish, Birds and Animals, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Michigan, News, Ohio, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect, upper peninsula, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts

Ohio company will pay nearly $250K for Michigan fish kill

ESCANABA, Mich. (AP) — A paper mill in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula has agreed to pay nearly $250,000 to settle an investigation of a fish kill in the Escanaba River, state regulators said.

A “catastrophic pipe failure” at the Verso Corp. site in Escanaba resulted in a discharge of partially treated wastewater in August 2020, regulators said.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/01/ap-ohio-company-pay-250k/

South Haven adds Lake Michigan restrictions in bad weather

On: January 6, 2022

In: AP, drownings, Lake Michigan, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Recreation and Tourism, swimming

South Haven adds Lake Michigan restrictions in bad weather

SOUTH HAVEN, Mich. (AP) — A southwestern Michigan town that swells with summer visitors is taking steps to keep people out of Lake Michigan during hazardous conditions.

The city council in South Haven agreed to install gates to close popular piers at certain times. Swimmers also could be fined if they’re in the lake, though surfers or kite boarders who embrace big wind and waves would be exempt.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/01/ap-south-haven-restrictions/

Breeze Boost: What’s the connection between breezy Lake Michigan days and high ozone levels?

On: January 6, 2022

In: Climate change, Feature Homepage, Lake Michigan, Latest News, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Science, Technology, Research, wind

Breeze Boost: What’s the connection between breezy Lake Michigan days and high ozone levels?

The day was like any other in summer on the Lake Michigan coast: hot. But Charles Stanier remembers the breeze.

It was the summer of 2017, and he’d been working up a sweat in a trailer in Illinois Beach State Park. A professor of chemical and biochemical engineering at the University of Iowa, Stanier spent the morning checking instruments, climbing up and down ladders, and wondering if anything would come of all his team’s work.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/01/lake-michigan-ozone-levels/

Lina Tran

Bugs, Shorter Winters, Climate: Great Lakes vineyards face changing circumstances

On: January 4, 2022

In: Agriculture, Climate change, Feature Homepage, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Latest News, News, plants, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Recreation and Tourism, Research, Science, Technology, Research

Bugs, Shorter Winters, Climate: Great Lakes vineyards face changing circumstances

The Erie County Ag Research Corporation facility started as a small building in northeast Pennsylvania near the Lake Erie shore in 1948. Pennsylvania State University bought it just four years later.

Now, Penn State’s grape research center boasts 43 acres and has a joint program with Cornell University’s Grape Research Lab in New York.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/01/great-lakes-vineyards-changing/

Capri S. Cafaro

Road salt threatens Michigan lakes and rivers. Can an alternative take hold?

On: January 3, 2022

In: Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Lake Michigan, Latest News, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect, road salt, Science, Technology, Research

Road salt threatens Michigan lakes and rivers. Can an alternative take hold?

By Kelly House, Bridge Michigan

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/01/road-salt-michigan-lakes/

Bridge Michigan

Adapting to Climate Change Will Only Get More Expensive

On: January 3, 2022

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.

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

Hakai Magazine

Great Lakes Moment: Kirtland’s warblers are thriving in Michigan

On: January 3, 2022

In: birds, conservation, endangered species, Feature Homepage, Fish, Birds and Animals, Habitat Restoration, John Hartig, Latest News, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice

Great Lakes Moment: Kirtland’s warblers are thriving in Michigan

Once living on the brink of extinction, the Kirtland’s warbler is now thriving thanks to collaborative conservation efforts.

The Kirtland’s warbler is one of the largest and rarest songbirds in North America. This handsome yellow-and-gray warbler is named for Dr. Jared Kirtland, on whose farm near Cleveland, Ohio, the first specimen was collected in 1851.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/01/great-lakes-moment-warblers/

John Hartig

Minnesota regulators reaffirm air permit for proposed mine

On: December 30, 2021

In: AP, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, local economics, mines, Minnesota, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice

Minnesota regulators reaffirm air permit for proposed mine

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — State regulators who three years ago issued an air quality permit for a proposed copper-nickel mine in northwestern Minnesota stood by their decision in a report released Monday that said the mine did not provide misleading information on its plans.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency report is a blow to several environmental groups and the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, although it does not clear the way for construction.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/ap-minnesota-regulators-mine/

Environmental group says Gov. Whitmer’s plan to reduce harmful algal blooms ‘won’t work’

On: December 30, 2021

In: Algae Blooms, algal blooms, Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Feature Homepage, harmful algal blooms, lake erie, Latest News, News, Ohio, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts

Environmental group says Gov. Whitmer’s plan to reduce harmful algal blooms ‘won’t work’

By Lester Graham, Michigan Radio

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/environmental-groups-algal-blooms/

Minnesota Supreme Court to review drainage projects ruling

On: December 29, 2021

In: Advocacy, AP, drainage, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Minnesota, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect

Minnesota Supreme Court to review drainage projects ruling

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — The Minnesota Supreme Court announced Tuesday it will review a ruling by the Minnesota Court of Appeals that provided environmental protections for Renville County’s last free-flowing stream.

The October appeals court decision called for an environmental review to determine whether a proposed drainage ditch improvement could harm the stream in the heavily agricultural western county.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/ap-minnesota-supreme-court-drainage-projects/

Year in Review 2021: Change is good, really, and proof is in the Great Lakes pudding

On: December 29, 2021

In: Climate change, Collaboration, great lakes now, Great Lakes Now's Year-End Posts, Latest News, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice

Year in Review 2021: Change is good, really, and proof is in the Great Lakes pudding

Not to overshare and get too personal, but I don’t deal well with change.

Unfortunately, as evidenced by the past two years, unexpected change is unavoidable.

What a lot of people – including me for a while – don’t seem to realize about change is that it isn’t temporary.

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

EPA to test, measure longtime Buffalo River cleanup efforts

On: December 29, 2021

In: AP, Buffalo, Feature Homepage, New York, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, river cleanup, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts

EPA to test, measure longtime Buffalo River cleanup efforts

BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) — The lengthy effort to clean up the Buffalo River could pay off in the next few years.

The Buffalo News reported Sunday that the federal Environmental Protection Agency has told a local U.S. representative that the winding waterway could lose its status as an environmental danger zone, or “area of concern,” by 2025.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/ap-buffalo-river-cleanup-efforts/

Great Lakes region WWII armory preserves Indigenous village

On: December 27, 2021

In: Agriculture, Collaboration, Illinois, indigenous communities, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Lake Michigan, Latest News, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Research

Great Lakes region WWII armory preserves Indigenous village

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

By Hannah Brock, Great Lakes Echo

Researchers are studying a long-vanished village near southern Lake Michigan that a World War II arsenal helped preserve.

A recent study by archaeologists sought to learn about those who lived at what is now the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie in Illinois.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/wwii-armory-preserves-indigenous/

Great Lakes Echo

PFAS News Roundup: PFAS can move from water to air, DoD efforts to clean up PFAS skewered

On: December 23, 2021

In: Drinking Water, forever chemicals, Indiana, Latest News, News, News Roundup PFAS, Pennsylvania, PFAS, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Wisconsin

PFAS News Roundup: PFAS can move from water to air, DoD efforts to clean up PFAS skewered

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/2021/12/pfas-news-roundup-water/

Historic coal ash raises concerns at iconic Illinois coal plant site

On: December 23, 2021

In: coal, coal ash, Collaboration, Energy, Clean Energy, Ethanol and Fracking, Illinois, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Lake Michigan, Latest News, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice

Historic coal ash raises concerns at iconic Illinois coal plant site

By Kari Lydersen

This story was republished with permission from Energy News Network.

Coal ash will remain in the ground at the site of a closing coal plant on the shores of Lake Michigan in Waukegan, Illinois.

Owner NRG explained its plans on Dec.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/historic-coal-ash-concerns/

Energy News Network

Monty and Rose: Those Chicago piping plovers, where are they now, what are they doing?

On: December 23, 2021

In: birds, birdwatching, Chicago, Feature Homepage, Fish, Birds and Animals, Latest News, News, Ohio, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Recreation and Tourism

Monty and Rose: Those Chicago piping plovers, where are they now, what are they doing?

Everyone loves Monty and Rose – and Great Lakes Now featured the charming piping plover pair earlier this year.

Now Monty and Rose have chicks and even grand-chicks, many of whom are thriving as they fly south for the winter.

Chicago-based filmmaker Bob Dolgan has documented the progress of Monty and Rose and their offspring over the years.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/monty-rose-chicago-plovers/

GLN Editor

Should Benton Harbor residents have to pay for water they can’t drink?

On: December 22, 2021

In: benton harbor, Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Drinking Water, Feature Lead, Latest News, Lead, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice

Should Benton Harbor residents have to pay for water they can’t drink?

By Lindsey Smith, Michigan Radio

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/benton-harbor-residents-pay-water/

Superior Stewardship: In Duluth, the Great Lakes are more than a resource, they’re part of an identity

On: December 22, 2021

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.

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

O Christmas Tree: Is your Christmas tree environmentally friendly?

On: December 21, 2021

In: Agriculture, farms, Feature Homepage, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Latest News, local economics, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice

O Christmas Tree: Is your Christmas tree environmentally friendly?

Earlier this month, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared December 2021 as “Christmas Tree Month” in Michigan.

It’s a move that makes sense — the Christmas tree industry provides jobs and bolsters the national and state economy.

“Michigan’s integrated network of family farmers, processors, wholesalers and retailers, work together to ensure a quality product that is enjoyed by millions throughout our state and country,” Whitmer said in a statement.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/christmas-tree-environmentally-friendly/

Rachel Duckett

High costs, few customers: Benton Harbor water woes loom for Michigan cities

On: December 20, 2021

In: benton harbor, Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Drinking Water, Feature Lead, Latest News, Lead, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice

High costs, few customers: Benton Harbor water woes loom for Michigan cities

By Kelly House, Bridge Michigan

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/high-costs-benton-harbor-water/

Bridge Michigan

EPA releases $1B to clean up toxic waste sites in 24 states

On: December 20, 2021

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.

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

Court rules against proposed frac sand plant in Wisconsin

On: December 17, 2021

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.

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

US requires higher safety standards for more pipelines

On: December 17, 2021

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.

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

Public Perception: When it comes to nuclear waste in the Great Lakes region, what counts as safe?

On: December 17, 2021

In: Feature Homepage, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Lake Huron, Latest News, News, nuclear, Ontario, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Science, Technology, Research, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts

Public Perception: When it comes to nuclear waste in the Great Lakes region, what counts as safe?

Denia Djokić first got interested in nuclear engineering because of climate change. That was nearly two decades ago when she was a college student at UC Berkeley and learned how energy issues were central to create a more sustainable planet.

“When we’re 21, we want to go out and save the world,” she said.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/nuclear-waste-great-lakes-region/

Proposed eastern sandhill cranes hunt in breeding states stirs controversy

On: December 16, 2021

In: birds, Collaboration, Fish, Birds and Animals, Hunting, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Recreational Hunting and Fishing, Wisconsin

Proposed eastern sandhill cranes hunt in breeding states stirs controversy

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

By Nicholas Simon, Great Lakes Echo

Efforts by politicians to create a hunting season for eastern sandhill cranes in both Wisconsin and Michigan are stirring debates among hunters, farmers and birders.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/eastern-sandhill-cranes-hunt/

Great Lakes Echo

Tests show lead in Benton Harbor tap water finally dropping

On: December 16, 2021

In: AP, benton harbor, Drinking Water, Feature Lead, Lead, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice

Tests show lead in Benton Harbor tap water finally dropping

By Michael Phillis, Associated Press

ST. LOUIS (AP) — The amount of lead in Benton Harbor, Michigan’s drinking water has declined, new testing shows, after three straight years of elevated results compelled residents to consume bottled water and prompted a hurried effort to replace old pipes.

Lead levels in the majority Black city’s drinking water are now just within standards set by the state that if exceeded, force a utility to take corrective action and inform residents of a problem, according to state officials.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/ap-tests-lead-benton-harbor/

Enbridge seeks federal jurisdiction in oil pipeline dispute

On: December 16, 2021

In: AP, enbridge, Enbridge Line 5 and Other Pipelines, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, line 5, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice

Enbridge seeks federal jurisdiction in oil pipeline dispute

By John Flesher, Associated Press

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (AP) — Enbridge Energy moved Wednesday to shift to federal court a Michigan lawsuit seeking shutdown of an oil pipeline that runs beneath a channel linking two of the Great Lakes.

The Canadian company argued that a 2019 lawsuit filed in a state court by Attorney General Dana Nessel should be heard by U.S.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/ap-enbridge-federal-jurisdiction/

Old Business: EPA broadly designates legacy toxic sediment sites for funding priority

On: December 16, 2021

In: contaminated sediments, detroit river, Feature Homepage, GLRI, Latest News, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts

Old Business: EPA broadly designates legacy toxic sediment sites for funding priority

The seemingly endless process of crafting, negotiating and passing the infrastructure legislation is over.

The bill topped out at a trillion dollars, and $1 billion of that funding is coming to the Great Lakes region for continued restoration of the lakes. That’s in addition to the ongoing federal funding of over $300 million annually the lakes have received since 2010.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/epa-toxic-sediment-funding/

Gary Wilson

Banned decades ago, PCBs still posing threat to wildlife

On: December 14, 2021

In: birds, Fish, Birds and Animals, Habitat Restoration, New York, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, pollution, Protect, Research, Science, Technology, Research, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts

Banned decades ago, PCBs still posing threat to wildlife

By Michael Casey, Associated Press

HOLDERNESS, N.H. (AP) — Navigating her boat toward a wooden platform floating in an idyllic New Hampshire lake where “On Golden Pond” was filmed, biologist Tiffany Grade spotted what she had feared.

An olive brown loon’s egg with black speckles was sitting on an nest, abandoned by its parents and with no chance to hatch.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/ap-pcbs-threat-wildlife/

Filter Fix: Study shows washing machine filters keep harmful microfibers out of the Great Lakes

On: December 14, 2021

In: Feature Homepage, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Latest News, News, Ontario, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect, Research, Science, Technology, Research, wastewater, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts

Filter Fix: Study shows washing machine filters keep harmful microfibers out of the Great Lakes

Great Lakes communities on both sides of the border have diversion and reclamation programs for plastics, hoping to keep the trash out of the lakes.

But how everyday people can deal with microscopic pieces of plastic is a more challenging question. Now a two-year-long study into washing machine filters in an Ontario community shows something can be done.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/study-washing-machine-microfibers/

Sharon Oosthoek

Minnesota lake ice shrinking as climate change warms winters

On: December 13, 2021

In: AP, Climate change, economic development, Feature Homepage, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Minnesota, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice

Minnesota lake ice shrinking as climate change warms winters

By Mohamed Ibrahim, Associated Press

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesota lakes have lost nearly two weeks of lake ice over the past 50 years as climate change diminishes the state’s winters, officials from Minnesota’s natural resources and pollution control agencies said Friday.

According to newly released data from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and Department of Natural Resources, the state has lost an average of 10 to 14 days of lake ice over the past 50 years — a change officials say is hurting local economies, the environment and the Minnesota way of life.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/ap-minnesota-lake-climate-change/

Energy News Roundup: Duke Energy’s Financial Assistance Program, Propane Price Increases in Minnesota, Pennsylvania Prepares for Increased Energy Costs

On: December 10, 2021

In: energy roundup, Feature Homepage, Indiana, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Michigan, Minnesota, News, News Roundup Energy, Pennsylvania, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice

Energy News Roundup: Duke Energy’s Financial Assistance Program, Propane Price Increases in Minnesota, Pennsylvania Prepares for Increased Energy Costs

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

Click on the headline to read the full story:

Indiana:

More than $330,000 available in winter energy bill assistance for Duke Energy Indiana customers

Duke Energy Indiana set aside over $330,000 for customers facing difficulty paying their winter electricity bills.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/energy-news-roundup-financial-assistance-program/

Maya Sundaresan

Water utilities urge regulators to scrap new PFAS limits

On: December 10, 2021

In: AP, Drinking Water, environmental protection agency, News, PFAS, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts

Water utilities urge regulators to scrap new PFAS limits

A group of Wisconsin water utilities are urging the state Department of Natural Resources to scrap plans to impose limits on PFAS chemicals in drinking water, saying the agency hasn’t thought through the costs.

The Wisconsin State Journal reported Thursday that the Municipal Environmental Group’s water division submitted comments to the DNR on Tuesday saying the state should wait for the U.S.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/ap-water-utilities-pfas-limits/

You Can’t Beat Climate Change Without Tackling Disinformation

On: December 8, 2021

In: Climate, Climate change, Collaboration, COP26, Latest News, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Science, Technology, Research

You Can’t Beat Climate Change Without Tackling Disinformation

By Amy Westervelt, The Nation

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

In the past few months, climate disinformation has been making its way into the news more than usual.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/climate-change-disinformation/

The Nation

Drinking Water News Roundup: Infrastructure funding in Minnesota, Wisconsin, false confidence in Michigan water

On: December 8, 2021

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

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.

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

Maya Sundaresan

Lower Rates: New flood risk assessment will reduce insurance rates in the Great Lakes region

On: December 7, 2021

In: Feature Homepage, flood damage, flooding, Illinois, Indiana, Latest News, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, News, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, shoreline, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Wisconsin

Lower Rates: New flood risk assessment will reduce insurance rates in the Great Lakes region

Approximately 85,000 homeowners in the Great Lakes region will see rate reductions for the first time because of the National Flood Insurance Program’s new risk rating system, experts say.

The flood insurance program is managed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. It provides coverage to property owners, renters and businesses to help them recover from floods faster.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/flood-risk-assessment-reduce-insurance-rates/

Taylor Haelterman

BP agrees to $500K penalty, soot limits at Indiana refinery

On: December 3, 2021

In: AP, environmental protection agency, Indiana, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Lake Michigan, News, oil, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, pollution, Protect

BP agrees to $500K penalty, soot limits at Indiana refinery

By John Flesher, Associated Press

Oil giant BP agreed Thursday to pay a $512,450 penalty and reduce soot emissions from its Whiting refinery in Indiana under an agreement with regulators and activists who accused the company of violating an earlier deal.

The U.S. District Court settlement modifies a previous consent decree that required BP Products North America Inc.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/ap-bp-500k-penalty-soot-indiana/

Rising Cost of Water in Michigan Leads to Affordability Problems

On: December 3, 2021

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

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

Circle of Blue

Michigan drops oil pipeline suit, refocuses on separate case

On: December 1, 2021

In: AP, enbridge, Enbridge Line 5 and Other Pipelines, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, line 5, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice

Michigan drops oil pipeline suit, refocuses on separate case

By John Flesher, Associated Press

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer abandoned a lawsuit Tuesday aimed at shutting down an oil pipeline that runs through part of the Great Lakes but said the state would continue pursuing a separate case with the same goal.

Whitmer’s legal maneuver followed a federal judge’s decision earlier this month to retain jurisdiction over a suit brought by Enbridge Energy after the state revoked an easement allowing Line 5 to cross the Straits of Mackinac.

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/12/ap-michigan-drops-oil-pipeline-suit/

New lead testing method could reveal higher levels in water

On: November 30, 2021

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.

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