Engaging future generations of water stewards, Michigan’s actions to protect drinking water and the impact of high lake levels across the state are among the topics featured in the annual State of the Great Lakes report, released today by the Office of the Great Lakes (OGL) in conjunction with Great Lakes and Fresh Water Week.

The report looks at significant issues that affected the Great Lakes and Michigan’s residents in 2019. It also recognizes accomplishments in protecting and restoring water resources for public use, recreation, fish and wildlife, and commerce.

“Michigan and its community partners are committed to supporting restoration efforts that will keep the Great Lakes fishable, swimmable and drinkable today and in the future,” said Liesl Clark, director of the Michigan Department of the Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). “It’s imperative that we continue to build collaborations to achieve significant water improvements for the benefit of generations to come.”

The State of the Great Lakes report includes features about new offices within EGLE responsible for climate, environmental justice, and clean drinking water; new lead and copper and PFAS standards for drinking water; work to halt Asian carp from advancing into the Great Lakes; research into harmful algal blooms; student and community water literacy programs; Soo Lock expansion developments; high water impacts around the state; and the status of cruising on the Great Lakes.

Stewardship of the Great Lakes was reiterated by OGL’s Emily Finnell in a Great Lakes and Fresh Water Week kick-off webinar led by the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG). Finnell said stewardship of Michigan’s freshwater resources is a shared responsibility for everyone as our legacy to future generations.

The Office of the Great Lakes, which is part of EGLE, works to protect and restore Michigan’s waters. It works with partners to support sustainable communities, restore degraded waters, manage water quality and quantity, and prevent aquatic invasive species. Its mission is to ensure a healthy environment, strong blue economy and high quality of life for Michiganders.