For Friday, Oct. 17, 2025

1 – You may be hearing more about Great Lakes science. 

The Erb Family Foundation in Birmingham is supporting the International Association for Great Lakes Research.

The foundation says a $665,000 grant will help “ensure that fact-based science is shaping decisions that protect the Great Lakes.”

Leaders add that “Science plays a critical role in guiding policymakers as they develop policies and programs to safeguard water quality, restore habitats, and support resilient communities across the region.”

The association says the award will allow organizers to expand inclusion efforts and communications. That includes accessibility upgrades to a Lakes Letter magazine and a social media campaign to highlight breakthrough research. 

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2 – Wetlands will see some protections in the new state budget. 

The conservation group Audubon Great Lakes says $1 million included for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources is critical to conserve wetlands for bird habitat and to protect communities from flooding. 

The DNR will use the money to acquire and conserve wetlands throughout the state. 

Audubon says the 2026 funding falls short of $2 million in 2024 and $3 million in 2025. Still, the group says the $1 million shows ongoing support for wetlands, which also store carbon pollution and act as natural water purifiers. 

Audubon Great Lakes is working to restore 12,500 acres of wetlands, including in Saginaw Bay. 

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3 – Renewable energy and distributed generation continues to grow in Michigan. 

The state Public Service Commission says regulated electric utilities added almost 1,700 megawatts of renewable energy in 2024, an increase of about 29 percent from 2023. Another 800 megawatts is expected to be online by the end of 2025. 

The state is on its way to meeting standards set by Michigan energy laws revamped in 2023. 

Wind continues to be the largest source, accounting for 67 percent of renewable energy in Michigan. Solar makes up 18 percent, according to the commission. 

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