For Friday, Dec. 18, 2015
…
1 – The Christmas Bird Count is underway.
The Audubon event happens every year, when thousands of volunteers identify and count birds throughout the United States and Canada.
The Count, now in its 116th year, helps helps researchers, conservation biologists and others study North American bird populations.
Last year, more than 2,400 counts were completed, with more than 68 million birds reported.
Anyone can participate in the Christmas Bird Count, which takes place from Dec. 14 to Jan. 5. The event takes place in “count circles” that focus on specific geographic areas. Every circle has a leader, so even beginners can help contribute data.
There are count circles in Bay City, Midland and throughout the state. Last year’s count in Bay City – sponsored by the Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy and Saginaw Valley Audubon Society – recorded 52 species.
For more information, see birds.audubon.org.
– via NEEF
2 – The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality is taking steps to address E. coli bacteria contamination throughout the state.
The state is developing a Total Maximum Daily Load document for surface waters in impaired waters throughout the state.
The DEQ estimates that about half of river miles in Michigan are impaired by E. coli.
About 22 percent of beaches had closures due to E. coli contamination in 2014, including some in Bay County.
E. coli is used as an indicator for fecal contamination and a water quality standard is designed to protect human health during swimming and other recreation.
When the standard is exceeded, the Federal Clean Water Act requires that Michigan develop a Total Maximum Daily Load to provide a framework for restoration of water quality.
The DEQ says that due to the extent of this problem and the multitude of potential sources, a statewide approach will be most effective. A webinar on the process in planned for Jan. 19.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! See you in 2016.
– Mr. Great Lakes is heard at 9 a.m. Fridays in Bay City, Michigan, on Delta College Q-90.1 FM NPR.
Follow @jeffkart on Twitter #MrGreatLakes
Mr Great Lakes 