For Friday, Aug. 2, 2019

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1 – Installing solar panels can save you money on energy, and increase the value of your home.

This is according to research from Zillow, the online home shopping site. 

During the past year, homes with solar-energy systems sold for an average of 4.1 percent more than comparable homes without solar power. That translates to more than $9,000 for the median-valued home. 

Zillow says its research also shows that more than 80 percent of home buyers say energy-efficient features are important. 

2 – Michigan’s environmental agency is seeking public input and comment on a Draft 5-year Water Management and Water Conservation and Efficiency Program Review. 

The review is part of complying with a compact with other Great Lakes states and an agreement with the provinces of Ontario and Quebec. 

The compact and agreement are related to laws to manage the groundwater and surface water resources within the Great Lakes Basin, and prohibit diversions outside the basin. 

The 45-day public comment period ends on Wednesday, Sept. 11. 

To provide comments on the Draft Program Review, email EGLE-OGL@michigan.gov by Wednesday, September 11, 2019.

 

3 – Huron Pines has partnered with Central Michigan University for research on invasive European frog-bit in Fletcher Pond. 

Frog-bit is a floating aquatic plant that forms dense mats that impact the growth and diversity of native plants, insects and wildlife. The matting also inhibits recreational and commercial use of the water. 

The plant is a relatively new threat that’s quickly spreading across the state, according to Huron Pines, a nonprofit in Gaylord. 

Huron Pines will be setting up three research plots near the shore in the northwest corner of Fletcher Pond, located in Alpena County. 

The first plot will receive no management and act as the control. In the second plot, the frog-bit will be removed by hand. In the third plot, the frog-bit will be treated with an herbicide. 

The research is meant to gather valuable information for improved treatment and prevention of European frog-bit. The research started in mid-July is ongoing until Aug. 31. 

– Mr. Great Lakes is heard Friday mornings in Bay City, Michigan, on Delta College Q-90.1 FM NPR. Follow @jeffkart on Twitter #MrGreatLakes

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