Agriculture Great Lakes Now Michigan

Empowering Environmental Stewardship: How Barn Sanctuary Champions Compassion and Conservation in the Great Lakes

11 min read

Empowering Environmental Stewardship: How Barn Sanctuary Champions Compassion and Conservation in the Great Lakes

The Great Lakes, a vital freshwater expanse for millions, face an ongoing environmental crisis. Beneath the vast waters lies a significant threat: pollution stemming largely from agricultural runoff. This flow of excess nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen contributes to harmful algal blooms and expanding “dead zones,” jeopardizing ecosystems, water quality and public health across the region.

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Great Lakes Now

Easy summer foraging adventures the whole family will remember

6 min read

Easy summer foraging adventures the whole family will remember

This is a part of “A Year in the Wild Kitchen of the Great Lakes,” a series in partnership with expert forager Lisa M. Rose, with the mission of nurturing a deeper connection with the natural world through foraging. To get started with your foraging journey, begin here with our “Framework to Sustainable and Safe Practices.” 

As Michigan’s fields burst into berry-laden glory, summer invites us to celebrate nature’s sweet, sun-ripened gifts.

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Climate change Great Lakes Now Lake Erie Research

Toxic algae blooms are lasting longer in Lake Erie − why that’s a worry for people and pets

7 min read

Toxic algae blooms are lasting longer in Lake Erie − why that’s a worry for people and pets

By Gregory J. Dick, University of Michigan

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

Federal scientists released their annual forecast for Lake Erie’s harmful algal blooms on June 26, 2025, and they expect a mild to moderate season.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.