Great Lakes Echo

How Downriver Detroit’s working communities fought for their region’s environment

6 min read

By Kyrmyzy Turebayeva

Downriver Detroit developed during the 20th century as an industrial region, but it was never just an industrial space. Alongside factories and working-class neighborhoods, there were wetlands, waterfront areas, nature preserves, farms and residential communities with different types of environments that shaped the region. This relationship lies at the heart of Lisa Fine’s new book, “Downriver Detroit: The Working Class, the Environment and the Bonds of Place.”

Great Lakes Echo

Invasives, oak wilt threaten Skyline High School natural areas, adjacent neighborhoods

11 min read

By Domonic Marroni

In Ann Arbor, Michigan, Skyline High School’s natural areas are home to several species of invasive plants causing widespread destruction of surrounding trees. These species pose potential fire hazards and are dangerous to public health.  Action is needed, say several environmental experts, to avert future disasters and to preserve the natural areas for future students.