For Friday, Jan. 23, 2026

1 – Net Basin Supply refers to the balance of water entering and leaving a lake through precipitation, runoff and evaporation. 

To improve water supply predictions, researchers have developed the Great Lakes NBS Predictor. It’s an advanced machine learning tool that provides forecasts of up to 12 months. 

As highlighted by the Cooperative Institute for Great Lakes Research, the Predictor is intended to improve long-range water level forecasting and support better resource management. 

The innovations are reportedly helping advance water forecasting beyond traditional methods, giving managers and stakeholders better tools to anticipate and respond to changes in the Great Lakes. 

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2 – Solar is still hot for 2026. The Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association says it’s continuing a Solarize Program this year.  

The association works with local governments to educate homeowners, businesses and churches about solar energy. The organization then offers a “group buy” discount for power panels.   

The program goal is to promote solar, make it more affordable and encourage energy independence from utilities across Michigan.  

The association says participants in Solarize can save up to 15% on the cost of purchasing solar with a group buy discount. More info is online at GLREA.org.

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3 – Maybe it’s the raccoons? Michigan has a goal of reaching a 30% recycling rate for residents by 2029. 

With help in part from a Recycling Raccoons educational campaign, the state is on track to meet the mark. 

Officials say the rate is about 25% right now, which translates to more than 700,000 tons of additional materials recycled in 2025. 

Besides conserving natural resources, the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy says recycling helps support more than 70,000 jobs in the state. 

– h/t Craig Harris, professor emeritus, Michigan State U 

– Mr. Great Lakes (Science Podcast of the Year) 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