On:
In: AP, erosion, Indiana, Lake Michigan, lake michigann, News
Boulders in place to protect lakefront at Indiana Dunes Park

PORTAGE, Ind. (AP) — The National Park Service says the Portage Lakefront at Indiana Dunes National Park has reopened after a project to install boulders to protect the pavilion and assure safer access to the shoreline.

It says the joint effort by the City of Portage and the Park Service involved the installation of more than 1,000 tons of boulders needed to protect the lakefront and the Riverwalk from erosion.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/06/ap-boulders-lakefront-indiana-dunes-lake-michigan/

The Associated Press

On:
In: Uncategorized
...PATCHY DENSE FOG EXPECTED EARLY THIS MORNING ACROSS NORTHEAST WISCONSIN... Look for patchy dense fog across northeast Wisconsin during the early morning hours, which is expected to affect the morning commute. The fog will reduce visibilities below one mile, with some locations approaching one quarter of a mile at times.

Original Article

Current Watches, Warnings and Advisories for Brown (WIC009) Wisconsin Issued by the National Weather Service

Current Watches, Warnings and Advisories for Brown (WIC009) Wisconsin Issued by the National Weather Service

https://alerts.weather.gov/cap/wwacapget.php?x=WI1261A5B2C3FC.SpecialWeatherStatement.1261A5B35100WI.GRBSPSGRB.3b77a733acfe35fc01f412b80021d336

w-nws.webmaster@noaa.gov

On:
In: electric vehicles, ev, transportation

As electric vehicle demands grow, one focus of concern is how to make them more environmentally sustainable. 

The post Companies team up to support electric vehicle recycling in Michigan first appeared on Great Lakes Echo.

Original Article

Great Lakes Echo

Great Lakes Echo

http://greatlakesecho.org/2021/06/01/companies-team-up-to-support-electric-vehicle-recycling-in-michigan/

Guest Contributor

On:
In: Uncategorized
...SIGNIFICANT WEATHER ADVISORY FOR SOUTHEASTERN BROWN...SOUTHWESTERN KEWAUNEE...CALUMET...WINNEBAGO...SOUTHEASTERN WAUSHARA...SOUTH CENTRAL WAUPACA...SOUTHERN OUTAGAMIE AND MANITOWOC COUNTIES UNTIL 815 PM CDT... At 713 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong gust front extending from near Kewaunee to 7 miles south of Denmark to Menasha

Original Article

Current Watches, Warnings and Advisories for Brown (WIC009) Wisconsin Issued by the National Weather Service

Current Watches, Warnings and Advisories for Brown (WIC009) Wisconsin Issued by the National Weather Service

https://alerts.weather.gov/cap/wwacapget.php?x=WI1261A5B181B8.SpecialWeatherStatement.1261A5B1A92CWI.GRBSPSGRB.d65efe55088dd94d9c460efb2df919a6

w-nws.webmaster@noaa.gov

On:
In: Uncategorized
...SIGNIFICANT WEATHER ADVISORY FOR NORTHERN BROWN...NORTHERN PORTAGE...SOUTHEASTERN MARATHON...KEWAUNEE...SOUTHERN MARINETTE... DOOR...MENOMINEE...NORTHERN WAUPACA...SOUTHERN OCONTO...NORTHERN OUTAGAMIE...SOUTH CENTRAL LANGLADE AND SHAWANO COUNTIES UNTIL 700 PM CDT... At 555 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking strong thunderstorms

Original Article

Current Watches, Warnings and Advisories for Brown (WIC009) Wisconsin Issued by the National Weather Service

Current Watches, Warnings and Advisories for Brown (WIC009) Wisconsin Issued by the National Weather Service

https://alerts.weather.gov/cap/wwacapget.php?x=WI1261A188D0C8.SpecialWeatherStatement.1261A5B17C40WI.GRBSPSGRB.2b27bb8d0c111b78f563637880cb5c05

w-nws.webmaster@noaa.gov

On:
In: Uncategorized
...FROST ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 7 AM CDT THIS MORNING... * WHAT...Temperatures as low as 31 will result in frost formation. * WHERE...Portions of central, east central and northeast Wisconsin. * WHEN...Until 7 AM CDT this morning.

Original Article

Current Watches, Warnings and Advisories for Brown (WIC009) Wisconsin Issued by the National Weather Service

Current Watches, Warnings and Advisories for Brown (WIC009) Wisconsin Issued by the National Weather Service

https://alerts.weather.gov/cap/wwacapget.php?x=WI1261A1684BC8.FrostAdvisory.1261A168AF00WI.GRBNPWGRB.906bfc3bddfb0c1ea2d1e47483a25d75

w-nws.webmaster@noaa.gov

On:
In: Uncategorized
...FROST ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM MIDNIGHT TONIGHT TO 7 AM CDT SATURDAY... * WHAT...Temperatures in the lower to middle 30s will result in frost formation. * WHERE...Portions of central, east central, and northeast Wisconsin. * WHEN...From Midnight tonight to 7 AM CDT Saturday.

Original Article

Current Watches, Warnings and Advisories for Brown (WIC009) Wisconsin Issued by the National Weather Service

Current Watches, Warnings and Advisories for Brown (WIC009) Wisconsin Issued by the National Weather Service

https://alerts.weather.gov/cap/wwacapget.php?x=WI1261A15B29AC.FrostAdvisory.1261A168AF00WI.GRBNPWGRB.906bfc3bddfb0c1ea2d1e47483a25d75

w-nws.webmaster@noaa.gov

On:
In: AP, biden administration, epa, Feature Homepage, News, Policy, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice
EPA restoring state and tribal power to protect waterways

By Matthew Daly, Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — In the latest reversal of a Trump-era policy, the Biden administration’s Environmental Protection Agency is restoring a rule that grants states and Native American tribes authority to block pipelines and other energy projects that can pollute rivers, streams and other waterways.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/05/ap-epa-state-tribal-power-protect-waterways/

The Associated Press

On:
In: COVID-19, Drinking Water, Freshwater Weekly, News

May 28, 2021

THIS WEEK: Board Spotlight – Melanie Welch + Freshwater Future Spearheads Billion Dollar Ask to Ohio Legislature and Governor + Maryland Takes Positive Step with ‘Safe School Drinking Water Act’ + Studies Find PFAS in Breast Milk + COVID-19 Pandemic Shines a Light on Need for Safe, Clean, and Affordable Water

Board Spotlight – Melanie Welch

Time spent at Indiana Dunes as a youth sparked the interest in biology and the environment for Freshwater Future board member, Melanie Welch. Melanie is Deputy Director of the American Library Association’s Public Programs Office, where she develops national informal education programs and professional development opportunities for librarians and libraries of all types throughout the United States. Melanie is a veteran non-profit professional, with additional experience in outcomes-based work at museums and environmental organizations, including several years on staff with Freshwater Future. Click here to read more about Melanie.                                                                             

Freshwater Future Spearheads Billion Dollar Ask to Ohio Legislature and Governor

Freshwater Future and local partner Junction Coalition are spearheading a bold idea to ask the state of Ohio to utilize federal funds to remove toxic lead pipes in the state – a billion dollars worth. As a result, we are working with a diverse group of Ohio, Regional, and National organizations, representing medical, environmental, housing, and community interests, to request $1 billion of the proposed more than $5 billion the state of Ohio will receive in federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 to be dedicated to residential full lead service line replacements. These funds would supplement H2Ohio funding that is being used to replace lead service lines and fixtures in daycares and schools as well as other water infrastructure needs. Ohio is second in the nation for lead service lines at an estimated 650,000 lines. Read the full request here.

Maryland Takes Positive Step with ‘Safe School Drinking Water Act’

The efforts of many Maryland citizen action groups helped to move Governor Hogan to sign the ‘Safe School Drinking Water Act’. The legislation will require schools in Maryland to reduce allowable lead levels to 5ppb beginning June 1st. While zero lead in drinking water is the only safe level, this new regulation may be a step in the right direction in protecting children from the harmful effects of lead, as long as it doesn’t make people believe that 5ppb is safe – it is not.“EPA has set the maximum contaminant level goal for lead in drinking water at zero because lead is a toxic metal that can be harmful to human health even at low exposure levels.”

Study Finds Toxic PFAS in Breast Milk 

Recent research published in Environmental Science and Technology has found traces of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the breast milk of all 50 women studied in the Seattle area. Researchers found 16 different PFAS chemicals, ranging from 52 to more than 500 parts per trillion, in samples of breast milk tested. Evidence suggests that these women ingested PFAS through diet and indoor exposure. This research is further evidence among a growing body of studies that PFAS chemicals accumulate in our bodies and are toxic.

COVID-19 Pandemic Continues to Shine a Light on Need for Safe, Clean, and Affordable Water

During the COVID-19 pandemic, restrictions and closures meant most people were spending more time at home, shining a light on the essential need for clean, safe running water in every home. Since the height of the pandemic, congress has put more time and investment into the country’s dire need for water and wastewater infrastructure upgrades. An action long overdue, the Drinking Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Act S.914, recently passing the Senate, is now waiting for House approval. This legislation will provide $35 billion in federal funding for local projects to upgrade our water infrastructure over five years. Although not nearly enough to fix the myriad problems with our water infrastructure and pricing across the country, we hope this is a first step in the federal government returning to a focus on helping to ensure basic human rights such as clean, safe and affordable water.

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/drinking-water/freshwater-weekly-may-28-2021/

Freshwater Future

On:
In: Uncategorized

Chicago, IL (May 28, 2021) – Earlier today, President Biden released the President’s FY 2022 budget. In response, Alliance for the Great Lakes Director of Federal Relations Donald Jodrey released the following statement:

“The FY 2022 President’s Budget builds on the Administration’s drinking and wastewater infrastructure proposal and continues the theme of investing in America including programs that are critical here in the Great Lakes.

The budget includes $4.9 million for the Army Corps of Engineers to carry out design work for the Brandon Road Lock and Dam project which is critical to stopping the spread of invasive carp towards the Great Lakes.

In addition, $500,000 is included in the Corps’ budget to initiate the Great Lakes Coastal Resiliency Study which will assist states in dealing with fluctuating water levels and climate change.

We also note that the budget includes an additional $10 million for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative which will fund the program at $340 million and we are hopeful that Congress will increase that program further and fund it at the authorized level of $375 million.”

###

Media contact: Jennifer Caddick, jcaddick@greatlakes.org

The post Statement on President Biden’s Budget appeared first on Alliance for the Great Lakes.

Original Article

News – Alliance for the Great Lakes

News – Alliance for the Great Lakes

https://greatlakes.org/2021/05/statement-on-president-bidens-budget/

Judy Freed

On:
In: Uncategorized

Chicago, IL (May 28, 2021) – Earlier today, President Biden released the President’s FY 2022 budget. In response, Alliance for the Great Lakes Director of Federal Relations Donald Jodrey released the following statement:

“The FY 2022 President’s Budget builds on the Administration’s drinking and wastewater infrastructure proposal and continues the theme of investing in America including programs that are critical here in the Great Lakes.

The budget includes $4.9 million for the Army Corps of Engineers to carry out design work for the Brandon Road Lock and Dam project which is critical to stopping the spread of invasive carp towards the Great Lakes.

In addition, $500,000 is included in the Corps’ budget to initiate the Great Lakes Coastal Resiliency Study which will assist states in dealing with fluctuating water levels and climate change.

We also note that the budget includes an additional $10 million for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative which will fund the program at $340 million and we are hopeful that Congress will increase that program further and fund it at the authorized level of $375 million.”

###

Media contact: Jennifer Caddick, jcaddick@greatlakes.org

The post Statement on President Biden’s Budget appeared first on Alliance for the Great Lakes.

Original Article

News – Alliance for the Great Lakes

News – Alliance for the Great Lakes

https://greatlakes.org/2021/05/statement-on-president-bidens-budget/

Judy Freed

On:
In: Energy, Energy, Clean Energy, Ethanol and Fracking, Feature Homepage, Illinois, Latest News, Michigan, Minnesota, News, Ohio
Energy News Roundup: Solar-powered pork in Illinois, Michigan gas prices rise, Bitcoin creates Mining Council

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:

Illinois:

  • At long last, a new Illinois energy bill is likely imminent – Energy News Network

An ambitious clean energy bill appears poised to pass in Illinois before the end of the legislative session this month, with stakeholders feverishly negotiating to find common ground and hash out crucial details.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/05/energy-news-solar-illinois-michigan-gas-bitcoin-mining-council/

Rachel Duckett

On:
In: Energy, Energy, Clean Energy, Ethanol and Fracking, Feature Homepage, Illinois, Latest News, Michigan, Minnesota, News, Ohio
Energy News Roundup: Solar-powered pork in Illinois, Michigan gas prices rise, Bitcoin creates Mining Council

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:

Illinois:

  • At long last, a new Illinois energy bill is likely imminent – Energy News Network

An ambitious clean energy bill appears poised to pass in Illinois before the end of the legislative session this month, with stakeholders feverishly negotiating to find common ground and hash out crucial details.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/05/energy-news-solar-illinois-michigan-gas-bitcoin-mining-council/

Rachel Duckett

On:
In: Uncategorized

Summary

The Water Policy Fellow works with the Agriculture and Water team on a range of issues and activities related to the Alliance’s Great Lakes and agriculture nutrient policy priorities and research. The Fellow will support work across the Great Lakes region through research, writing, and policy analysis. The Fellow will work both independently and collaboratively on varying tasks to ensure timely and high-quality deliverables. Additionally, the Fellow may be asked to represent the Alliance in a public-facing capacity, attending community events, public hearings, and events hosted by partners and decision-makers. The Water Policy Fellow reports to the Senior Policy Manager. The Alliance for the Great Lakes sets a protection agenda for the Great Lakes, a resource of global significance and the world’s largest source of surface freshwater. The Alliance seeks to protect the Great Lakes from their greatest threats, build a resilient future for communities and instill the value of clean water throughout the region. Learn more about the Alliance at www.greatlakes.org.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities

Compile an agriculture and water governance and policy outline for the Great Lakes region to be shared internally with the Alliance and close partners
• Research and draft report detailing the cost of intervention for nutrients and algae blooms for water utilities in key geographies in the basin
• Assess and develop a process for tracking agriculture-related permits in key geographies in the basin
• Assess current information and processes for quantifying nutrient sources in the Lake Erie Watershed
• Research a prioritized lists of current and alternative funding and policy mechanisms for achieving nutrient reduction targets in Green Bay, conduct a gap analyses, and report on findings
• Review literature focused on agriculture and nutrient pollution management, policy, socioeconomic, and governance and contribute to an annotated bibliography and resource sharing process
• Support the Alliance’s policy positions through public-facing communications, including writing, attending community events, participating in public hearings and events hosted by partners and decision-makers as needed

Knowledge/Skills

  • The ideal candidate will have experience in water policy, law, and/or planning with some background related to agricultural impacts on water and communities preferred
  • Bachelor’s degree plus 1 year of experience in policy research or a related field preferred (1 year of graduate-level school work would meet this preference)
  • Strong listening, written, and verbal communications skills
  • Ability to review multiple source documents (including peer-reviewed academic literature), filter important information, and summarize key points from research and meetings respectively
  • Ability to manage multiple pieces of work in a fast-paced environment and shift focus quickly from one priority to another
  • Ability to work collaboratively with a staff team located in different offices with varying types of expertise and priorities
  • Some knowledge of large-scale or watershed planning or water law is a bonus
  • Attraction to mission-driven public interest work
  • Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint

Job Parameters/Expectations

  •  Work with Supervisor to design the plan of work with clearly defined outcomes and timelines subject to the Fellow’s abilities and the Fellowship’s aims
  •  Participate in regularly scheduled meetings virtually and possibly some in-person
  • This is a part-time, temporary, paid position for June – October 2021, with extension option pending performance and project development
  • Compensation is hourly with an average goal per week
  •  “Office hours” are expected but flexibility can be discussed, as needed, with supervisor’s prior approval

 Application Process

Please e-mail a cover letter, resume, references, and writing sample to: hr@greatlakes.org. Include job title in the subject line.

The application period may stay open until June 29 or the position is filled, whichever is earlier. Materials should be compatible with Microsoft Word or Adobe Acrobat. Applicants will receive confirmation of receipt of their materials and further guidance and updates about the hiring process by e-mail, with interviews provided for finalists. No phone inquiries, please.

 About the Alliance for the Great Lakes

The Alliance for the Great Lakes is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The search process will reinforce the Alliance’s belief that achieving diversity requires an enduring commitment to inclusion that must find full expression in our organizational culture, values, norms, and behaviors.

The Alliance’s vision is a healthy Great Lakes for people and wildlife, forever. Its mission is to conserve and restore the world’s largest freshwater resource using policy, education and local efforts, ensuring a healthy Great Lakes and clean water for generations of people and wildlife.

 

The post We’re Hiring a Water Quality Policy Fellow appeared first on Alliance for the Great Lakes.

Original Article

News – Alliance for the Great Lakes

News – Alliance for the Great Lakes

https://greatlakes.org/2021/05/were-hiring-a-water-quality-policy-fellow/

Michelle Farley

On:
In: Daily News

The Memorial Day weekend is on the horizon and it just won’t be the same for several Mid-Michigan communities. After a dam failure caused Wixom Lake to drain last year, many businesses are bracing for a summer with less tourism. Read the full story by WJRT-TV- Sanford, MI.

Original Article

Great Lakes Commission

Great Lakes Commission

https://www.glc.org/dailynews/20210528-lakeless

Ken Gibbons

On:
In: Uncategorized
...FROST ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM MIDNIGHT TONIGHT TO 7 AM CDT SATURDAY... * WHAT...Temperatures in the lower to middle 30s will result in frost formation. * WHERE...Portions of central, east central, and northeast Wisconsin. * WHEN...From Midnight tonight to 7 AM CDT Saturday.

Original Article

Current Watches, Warnings and Advisories for Brown (WIC009) Wisconsin Issued by the National Weather Service

Current Watches, Warnings and Advisories for Brown (WIC009) Wisconsin Issued by the National Weather Service

https://alerts.weather.gov/cap/wwacapget.php?x=WI1261A159EAEC.FrostAdvisory.1261A168AF00WI.GRBNPWGRB.906bfc3bddfb0c1ea2d1e47483a25d75

w-nws.webmaster@noaa.gov

On:
In: Daily News

Paul Smith’s College Adirondack Watershed Institute is offering free boat inspections and decontaminations starting on Memorial Day weekend at more than 60 boat launches and road-side locations across the Adirondack region in New York to help the public stop the spread of aquatic invasive species. Read the full story by Upstate New York.

Original Article

Great Lakes Commission

Great Lakes Commission

https://www.glc.org/dailynews/20210528-decontamination

Ken Gibbons

On:
In: Daily News

Great Lakes steel production rose by 5,000 tons last week, while U.S. steel mills remained close to 80% capacity utilization. National steel output is up 8.7% so far this year and more than 46% over the same time last year. Read the full story by the Northwest Indiana Times.

Original Article

Great Lakes Commission

Great Lakes Commission

https://www.glc.org/dailynews/20210528-steel

Ken Gibbons

On:
In: Daily News

When it comes to the plants and animals that you may see on your trip to the beach, most people likely don’t give them much thought. However, some of those plants and animals are invasive in the waters or shores of Lake Michigan, causing environmental or socio-economic harm. Read the full story by WZZM-TV- Grand Rapids, MI.

Original Article

Great Lakes Commission

Great Lakes Commission

https://www.glc.org/dailynews/20210528-invasive

Ken Gibbons

On:
In: Beaches, Boating, Paddle Sports and Sailing, Collaboration, indigenous communities, invasive species, Latest News, mussels, News
If it’s summerish time, it’s mussel time

This article is part of a collaboration between The Char-Koosta News and Great Lakes Now at Detroit Public Television. Our partnership brings readers stories about issues of, research about and solutions to the invasive mussel problem – a challenge that’s shared by communities around Flathead Lake, its nearby waters and the Great Lakes.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/05/summer-time-invasive-mussel-boat-inspections/

Char-Koosta News

On:
In: Beaches, Boating, Paddle Sports and Sailing, Collaboration, indigenous communities, invasive species, Latest News, mussels, News
If it’s summerish time, it’s mussel time

This article is part of a collaboration between The Char-Koosta News and Great Lakes Now at Detroit Public Television. Our partnership brings readers stories about issues of, research about and solutions to the invasive mussel problem – a challenge that’s shared by communities around Flathead Lake, its nearby waters and the Great Lakes.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/05/summer-time-invasive-mussel-boat-inspections/

Char-Koosta News

On:
In: Collaboration, indigenous communities, invasive species, Latest News, mussels, News
Cost of a quagga and zebra mussel infestation

This article is part of a collaboration between The Char-Koosta News and Great Lakes Now at Detroit Public Television. Our partnership brings readers stories about issues of, research about and solutions to the invasive mussel problem – a challenge that’s shared by communities around Flathead Lake, its nearby waters and the Great Lakes.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/05/cost-quagga-zebra-mussel-infestation/

Char-Koosta News

On:
In: Collaboration, indigenous communities, invasive species, Latest News, mussels, News
Cost of a quagga and zebra mussel infestation

This article is part of a collaboration between The Char-Koosta News and Great Lakes Now at Detroit Public Television. Our partnership brings readers stories about issues of, research about and solutions to the invasive mussel problem – a challenge that’s shared by communities around Flathead Lake, its nearby waters and the Great Lakes.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/05/cost-quagga-zebra-mussel-infestation/

Char-Koosta News

On:
In: Collaboration, invasive species, Latest News, mussels, News
Invasive mussels found in aquarium moss balls sold in Montana

This article is part of a collaboration between The Char-Koosta News and Great Lakes Now at Detroit Public Television. Our partnership brings readers stories about issues of, research about and solutions to the invasive mussel problem – a challenge that’s shared by communities around Flathead Lake, its nearby waters and the Great Lakes.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/05/invasive-mussels-aquarium-moss-balls-montana/

Char-Koosta News

On:
In: Collaboration, invasive species, Latest News, mussels, News
Invasive mussels found in aquarium moss balls sold in Montana

This article is part of a collaboration between The Char-Koosta News and Great Lakes Now at Detroit Public Television. Our partnership brings readers stories about issues of, research about and solutions to the invasive mussel problem – a challenge that’s shared by communities around Flathead Lake, its nearby waters and the Great Lakes.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/05/invasive-mussels-aquarium-moss-balls-montana/

Char-Koosta News

On:
In: announcement, Collaboration, Feature Homepage, invasive species, Latest News, mussels
Combined Mussels: Great Lakes Now and Flathead Reservation newspaper partner to share stories

As the official newspaper of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes of the Flathead Indian Reservation, the Char-Koosta News has frequent coverage of environmental issues in western Montana especially in tribal lands and waters.

One of those issues is invasive mussels – the same zebra and quagga mussels that plague the Great Lakes and inland rivers and lakes throughout the region.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/05/great-lakes-now-flathead-reservation-newspaper-partner-invasive-mussels-stories/

GLN Editor

On:
In: contaminants, Green Gavel, Law, pollution, Waste

By Eric Freedman A federal judge has sentenced a Flint, Michigan, polluter to one year behind bars for illegally discharging more than 47 million gallons of untreated waste into the city’s sewer system. Robert Massey, the 70-year-old president and owner of family-owned Oil Chem Inc., pleaded guilty to violating the Clean Water Act over an […]

The post Michigan polluter ordered to jail for illegally discharging untreated waste first appeared on Great Lakes Echo.

Original Article

Great Lakes Echo

Great Lakes Echo

http://greatlakesecho.org/2021/05/28/michigan-polluter-ordered-to-jail-for-illegally-discharging-untreated-waste/

Eric Freedman

On:
In: Uncategorized
...STRONG GUSTS AT TIMES MIXING WITH RAIN SHOWERS THIS AFTERNOON... Strong winds will mix down to the surface at times this afternoon. Gusts up to 35 mph, with isolated higher gusts, are possible as showers cross the area.

Original Article

Current Watches, Warnings and Advisories for Brown (WIC009) Wisconsin Issued by the National Weather Service

Current Watches, Warnings and Advisories for Brown (WIC009) Wisconsin Issued by the National Weather Service

https://alerts.weather.gov/cap/wwacapget.php?x=WI1261A14B3F10.SpecialWeatherStatement.1261A14BB6FCWI.GRBSPSGRB.494cf03b682e092eb57578d83349b4a7

w-nws.webmaster@noaa.gov

On:
In: News

Melanie Welch is currently a Board Member of Freshwater Future and the Deputy Director of the American Library Association’s Public Programs Office, where she develops national informal education programs and professional development opportunities for libraries, and librarians, of all types throughout the United States. Melanie is a veteran non-profit professional, with additional experience in outcomes-based work at museums and environmental organizations, including several years on staff with Freshwater Future. She has expertise in informal education, public programs and community engagement and outreach. She received a BS degree in environmental biology from Bradley University and a MS degree in biology from Northern Illinois University, and is a member of the Second Nature class of Catto Fellows at the Aspen Institute. She lives in Chicago with her family.

I grew up in a south suburb of Chicago, not too far from the Indiana border. My parents always made time in the summers to take us to the Indiana Dunes. I loved to swim, but I would always spend some time hiking the dunes and exploring the area. I was always fascinated by what I saw: oak forests growing in the sand dunes, cactus growing in Indiana. I also remember dead alewives on the beach, and a display about sea lamprey that scared me half to death. Those experiences, plus a love of PBS nature programming and being inspired by trailblazing women scientists like Jane Goodall sparked a deep curiosity about the natural world and science.

In 1990, during the 20th anniversary of Earth Day, a lightbulb went off: I wanted to help our environment. I majored in environmental biology, and I immediately went on to pursue a master’s degree in biology. I started my career in environmental education in museums and eventually founded the Great Lakes conservation program at Shedd Aquarium. While engaged in Great Lakes work at the aquarium, I got to know other organizations working in the space, like Freshwater Future. I enjoyed getting to know the staff, the mission of the organization and was delighted to serve on an ad hoc committee to help with their strategic planning.

Eventually, I accepted an opportunity to join the staff of Freshwater Future. For nearly four years, I got to know many amazing people doing critical work on the ground in communities large and small all across the Great Lakes region. One of the groups I started helping very early on while on staff at Freshwater Future is Sturgeon for Tomorrow – Black Lake Chapter. I still follow them on Facebook and keep up with their activities to restore and protect lake sturgeon, one of my favorite Great Lakes fish.

Now that I work at the American Library Association, I’m proud to maintain my connection to the work of Freshwater Future and its many grassroots advocates and members as a board member. I like that I’m still connected to ensuring the healthy future of our waters in the Great Lakes region in this governance role. The health of the environment and specifically, the Great Lakes region where I live and raise my family, is a personal passion of mine and I still learn so much from the work of this organization. As I get involved locally in organizing efforts around issues such as replacing lead service lines (Illinois has the most lead pipes in the United States), I draw upon the knowledge and resources Freshwater Future offers.

 

Original Article

Blog – Freshwater Future

Blog – Freshwater Future

https://freshwaterfuture.org/news/board-spotlight-melanie-welch/

Freshwater Future

On:
In: Jobs, News and Announcements

Job Opportunities

 

Position Available: Aquatic Invasive Species Program Specialist

Application deadline: June 25, 2021  |   Download PDF

Description

The Great Lakes Commission (GLC) has an immediate opening for a self-starting, highly motivated team player to join our Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Prevention and Control program. This position will work under the direction of GLC AIS program staff and will assist with implementation of various AIS projects and provide support to regional collaboratives coordinated by the GLC. The GLC’s portfolio of invasive species projects target a variety of invasive species issues and rely heavily on regional coordination and collaboration to achieve desired outcomes.

Responsibilities

The Aquatic Invasive Species Program Specialist will be responsible for a variety of activities in support of the GLC’s AIS program, including project planning and implementation; communication with multiple partners; outreach to diverse stakeholder audiences; preparation of presentations and written documents; meeting planning, coordination and facilitation; assisting with grant reporting; and related responsibilities.

Specific responsibilities include:

  • Provide staff support to invasive species forums including the Great Lakes Panel on Aquatic Nuisance Species, the Great Lakes Phragmites Collaborative and the Invasive Mussel Collaborative

  • Assist with the coordination, planning, facilitation and documentation of collaborative meetings and workshops, including committee/work group meetings

  • Conduct literature reviews, policy analysis and other research to support the development of fact sheets, reports, briefing papers and other written materials

  • Organize educational webinars for diverse audiences on priority invasive species topics

  • Develop content for and assist in maintenance of electronic communications, including biweekly
    e-newsletters, websites (www.greatlakesphragmites.net and www.invasivemusselcollaborative.net)

  • Provide clear written and verbal communications to diverse partners and stakeholder groups

Qualifications

A master’s degree in natural resources, environmental science or a related field; or a bachelor’s degree plus two or more years of experience is required, along with the following qualifications:

  • Working knowledge of natural resources management, ecology and/or aquatic sciences

  • Experience with Microsoft Office products

  • Ability to work independently and as part of internal and external teams

  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing

  • Self-motivated and organized with strong attention to detail

  • Excellent communication and time management skills

The ideal candidate would also bring one or more of the following skills and experience to the position:

  • Knowledge of Great Lakes issues and programs, regional government, water quality, land use and/or resource management

  • Knowledge of aquatic invasive species prevention and management

  • Familiarity with social media, website content management (e.g., WordPress), and webinar platforms

  • Communications experience

Appointment

Position Classification
The position is classified as regular – full-time as defined by the GLC’s personnel policies.

Compensation and Benefits
The starting salary range for this position is $54,000 – $57,000 per year depending on education, skills and experience. The GLC offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits, including generous leave time, flexible schedules, medical, dental and vision insurance, and a retirement match program.

Work Environment
The GLC is located in Ann Arbor, Michigan. It is expected that the majority of work is performed in the GLC’s office; however, telework may be considered. This position requires occasional travel.

Application Process
Applicants must submit a cover letter and resume stating their interest in and qualifications for the position in a single e-mail to vacancy@glc.org. All required items must be provided for an application to receive consideration. No phone calls, please.

About the Great Lakes Commission

The Great Lakes Commission (GLC) is a binational government agency established by the eight Great Lakes states and Congress to protect the Great Lakes and the economies and ecosystems they support. The Canadian provinces of Ontario and Québec serve as associate members of the GLC. The GLC is an integral component of the governance structure of the Great Lakes basin – enabling the states and provinces to develop consensus and speak with a unified, powerful voice on behalf of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River region. The GLC staff manage a wide range of programs and projects on behalf of the states, provinces, and basin. Learn more at www.glc.org.

Equal Opportunity Employer
The Great Lakes Commission strives to create an inclusive, diverse and non-discriminatory workplace. The Great Lakes Commission is an equal opportunity employer; the Great Lakes Commission complies with applicable federal, state and local laws prohibiting discrimination. It is Great Lakes Commission policy that no person shall be discriminated against, as an employee or applicant for employment, because of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, marital status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

 

Contact

For media inquiries, please contact Beth Wanamaker, beth@glc.org.

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Great Lakes Commission

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https://www.glc.org/news/position-available-ais-program-specialist-2021

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On:
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Note: This blog is part of a periodic series of updates from Don Jodrey, the Alliance’s Director of Federal Government Relations, with his view on Great Lakes policy from Washington, DC.

Don Jodrey
Don Jodrey, Director of Federal Government Relations

A call to increase drinking water and wastewater infrastructure funding was near the top of the Alliance’s annual list of federal legislative priorities. And now the issue is front and center in Washington.

Before I share a rundown of where legislation stands, first a quick refresher on the issue. Communities across the Great Lakes region continue to grapple with crumbling, antiquated drinking water and wastewater infrastructure, which includes drinking water and sewage treatment plants and the pipes that carry water to and from our homes. It’s not just a Great Lakes problem. Our nation’s drinking water infrastructure is woefully in need of repair. In 2021, the American Society of Civil Engineers gave the nation’s drinking water system a “C minus” and said that much of our drinking water infrastructure is nearing the end of its useful life. But, fixing infrastructure is expensive. The eight Great Lakes states need $188 billion over the next 20 years for improvements, upgrades, and repairs to this infrastructure

Back in March, President Biden unveiled a massive infrastructure spending proposal – the American Jobs Plan – and his FY22 budget also includes investments in drinking and wastewater infrastructure. The President’s budget and legislative proposals respond to our advocacy on behalf of Great Lakes citizens who deserve clean and affordable drinking water and clean water for recreation. The key question now is, how will the Congress respond to the President’s efforts to invest in fixing our massive infrastructure problems?

The initial legislative action in Congress is encouraging and it’s notable that one of the first bi-partisan bills to pass the United States Senate last month centered on water infrastructure needs. The Senate’s Drinking Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Act of 2021 passed the Senate 89-2 and proposes to spend $35 billion over five years to upgrade drinking and wastewater infrastructure around the country and to target communities most in need in doing so. The Senate’s proposed $35 billion investment is a good first step to address the needs of the Great Lakes, but we know that more is necessary. The bill still has hurdles before it can become law as it has only passed the Senate.

The House of Representatives is also tackling infrastructure legislation. In an encouraging development, two committees in the House are currently considering larger water-related investments. The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee’s Water Quality Protection and Job Creation Act of 2021 and the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s Leading Infrastructure for Tomorrow’s America Act together propose to invest $101 billion in drinking and wastewater infrastructure. Committee hearings and markups – the process by which legislators debate bills by suggesting rewrites or amendments – are underway.

But where is all this going and how will it come together? The President’s American Jobs Plan proposed $111 billion for drinking and wastewater infrastructure spending over eight years, and that amount is much larger than either the Senate or House legislation considered to date. The President’s plan is being met with some resistance in Congress, with concerns being expressed by some House and Senate members over cost and scope of the plans. It is very much a subject of legislative negotiation and discussion with compromises still to be reached. But as with any domestic investment of this size and scale, this negotiation is to be expected.

So we remain engaged in the legislative process to inform Congress of our water needs. And, you can too. Hundreds of Great Lakes advocates sent letters to their Members of Congress in late April and it’s not too late to weigh in. It’s important that Congress hear from people like you as they debate these bills. We make it easy for you to send a letter in our Great Lakes Action Center.

The post Water Infrastructure Front and Center in Washington, DC appeared first on Alliance for the Great Lakes.

Original Article

News – Alliance for the Great Lakes

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