For March 7, 2025

1 – Several organizations that work to manage and control invasive species in the Saginaw Bay region will receive a portion of $3.6 million in state grants.

Michigan agencies awarded funding to 32 projects for efforts to address water- and land-based invasive species. 

Huron Pines in Gaylord received grants for work including surveys and treatment in northeast Michigan counties. 

The Gladwin Conservation District received support to assist private and public landowners with invasive species. 

And the Arenac Conservation District will use funding to tackle invasives in Arenac, Bay, Huron, Saginaw, Sanilac and Tuscola counties.

Problem invasives include non-native phragmites, a wetland grass that can grow up to 15 feet high. 

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2 – A new mapping hub shows the locations of power plants, renewable energy sources and pipelines that transport natural gas and oil in Michigan. 

As noted by the Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association, the hub is from the Michigan Public Service Commission and intended to help educate people on energy systems in the state. 

The maps include power generated by landfill gas in Pinconning, a coal plant in Sebewaing, hydroelectric resources on the Au Sable River in Iosco County, and natural gas power plants in Hampton Township and Midland.

Solar power generation also is spotlighted, with the most nearby installations in Midland.  And wind power is concentrated in the Thumb region. 

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3 – Great Lakes Day was celebrated this week in Washington, D.C.

The day is an annual event that brings together regional leaders and members of Congress who are involved in shaping Great Lakes policies.

Ahead of the day, a coalition including regional agencies, Indigenous Nations, legislators and environmental groups released a list of shared priorities.

Among the items, they’re urging Congress and the Trump administration to continue funding the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. 

The groups are requesting $475 million in Fiscal Year 2026 and $500 million a year for fiscal years 2027 to 2031. 

Research shows that every dollar spent on restoration produces $3.35 of additional economic activity in the region.

– Mr. Great Lakes is heard at 6:45 and 8:45 Friday mornings on Delta College Public Radio 90.1 FM in University Center, Michigan, near Bay City (listen live). Follow @jeffkart on Twitter #MrGreatLakes

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