Welcome to Great Lakes Now: a regional news and information hub about how we enjoy, study, work on and experience the world’s largest supply of surface freshwater.
The Great Lakes Now monthly television program is produced by Detroit Public TV in partnership with a network of PBS affiliates around the region. Shooting on location in eight states and Canada, the magazine-style show brings viewers stories about the recreational, economic, scientific, political and environmental issues related to the Great Lakes and drinking water.
Latest News from Great Lakes Now
Canada expands ballast water restrictions to reduce invasive species spread
The rules require all Canadian ships and all ships visiting Canadian ports to treat ballast water. That includes so-called “lakers.” They are ships which only haul cargo within the Great Lakes.
I Speak for the Fish: April showers bring vernal pools and baby salamanders
Our first underwater shoot each spring begins with a long hike through a hardwood forest. Our high-definition underwater camera system and associated gear weigh in at close to 50 pounds, making the 3-mile trek more laborious.
Citizen Science Opportunities: How can you get involved in scientific research?
For some, getting to contribute to scientific research might sound like a far-fetched possibility, but there are actually dozens of opportunities for people to try their hand at amateur science.
Army Corps plans extensive review of Great Lakes tunnel plan
The Corps could have settled for a narrowly tailored examination of needs and purposes for the tunnel, but it opted for an environmental impact statement, which involves a more comprehensive study, including consideration of reasonable alternatives.
Piping Plovers: Despite new challenges, the birds make their comeback
A pandemic, record-high lake levels, an outbreak of botulism—despite the slew of challenges, wildlife workers have helped the shorebirds thrive.
Plastic Impact: Canada launches multi-year study of microplastics in water and soil
Results from previous research have offered conflicting evidence about the particles’ impact on aquatic creatures.
PFAS News Roundup: PFAS in bottled water and makeup, “Filthy Fifty” list generated, corporations drop toxic packaging
Catch the latest updates on what’s happening with PFAS in Great Lakes Now’s biweekly headline roundup.
Ancient human remains unearthed at proposed Kohler golf course site in Wisconsin
The rapidly eroding Lake Michigan shoreline is also raising questions about the future of the controversial project adjacent to Kohler-Andrae State Park.
