It has been a busy past month of news, but we are still here with the latest digest of environmental and water news! This month’s News to Us shares a big win for water and land in Southeast Michigan, tips on fall leaf litter management, and an overview of what to expect for Michigan’s environment given recent political changes. Also find two articles related to PFAS in Michigan, including a new study on PFAS in well water and a case challenging the state’s drinking water standards for PFAS.
$25M in federal cash coming to Southeast Michigan to preserve farms and forests
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has awarded nearly $25 million to Southeast Michigan to preserve approximately 4,000 acres of farmland and forests. This award is part of a larger $1.5 billion in USDA Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) funding aimed at promoting climate-smart agriculture and conservation. The project, led by the Legacy Land Conservancy, will use conservation easements to protect lands from development, including land within the Huron River watershed. For more information, check out the press release from Legacy Land Conservancy.
What a Donald Trump presidency means for Michigan’s environment
Former President Donald Trump’s return to the White House is expected to bring significant changes to federal environmental policies, with major implications for Michigan. The Trump administration plans to reverse many recent climate change and pollution reduction initiatives in favor of a pro-fossil fuel and anti-regulation agenda. The White House transition may result in cuts to staff at environmental agencies and rolling back new rules on lead and PFAS in drinking water. These changes could impact Michigan’s freshwater resources and industries, both of which are major employers and sources of pollution.
Michigan officials want you to leave the leaves in your yard this fall. Here’s what to know
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy and the National Wildlife Federation are encouraging residents to leave fallen leaves on their lawns this fall. The no-rake approach benefits the environment by providing habitats for animals and insects, including toads, caterpillars, and chipmunks. In addition, decomposing leaves act as natural fertilizer, enriching the soil and reducing the need for chemical fertilizers. By avoiding the use of leaf blowers, this method also reduces air pollution and fossil fuel consumption. For more information on river-friendly lawn care practices, visit our Take Action page.
Up to 3.2M in Michigan may be getting water from PFAS-tainted aquifers
A new report from the U.S. Geological Survey reveals that up to 3.2 million Michiganders may be drinking water from aquifers contaminated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS. It is estimated that this contamination may affect about one-third of the state’s residents. The study used predictive modeling to estimate the presence of PFAS in aquifers across the state. Those with concerns about well water quality should consult the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy’s home sampling guidance for information on drinking water testing.
Michigan Supreme Court to decide challenge to clean water rules
The Michigan Supreme Court is set to decide on a challenge to the state’s drinking water standards for PFAS. The case involves the manufacturer 3M, which argues that the state did not properly estimate the costs of complying with these regulations. A ruling against the state could force the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy to recalculate compliance costs, potentially weakening the current drinking water protections. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for both environmental policy and economic development in Michigan.