Troubled Waters: 2 Michigan Lakes Top Most Polluted List
Michigan is known for its diverse attractions, and among them are the Great Lakes. However, even these stunning bodies of water are not immune to a significant problem which is pollution. Despite being home to some of the most picturesque lakes in the nation, many of them are sadly experiencing heavy contamination. From industrial contaminants, agricultural runoff, and untreated sewage to plastic, all types of garbage pollute the Lakes.
AZ Animals compiled a list of the ten most polluted lakes in the U.S. According to the site, humans discharge approximately 80% of the world’s wastewater back into the environment, largely untreated, polluting rivers, lakes, and seas.
Two Michigan lakes rank among the most polluted.
The second largest Great Lake by volume, Lake Michigan (#4), and the fourth largest lake in North America by surface area, Lake Erie (#3) ranked among the most polluted in the nation. Forget clean drinking water and picturesque beaches, according to the website, Lake Michigan is plagued by decaying algae, lifeless fish, and a slimy layer of motor oil. But there’s a glimmer of hope as the federal government has stepped in with new rules and regulations to keep a check on industries. And protect the waters surrounding the lake, including the Detroit River, which could potentially contribute to the pollution problem.
When it comes to Lake Erie, it had become the most polluted of the Great Lakes and is highly impacted by human activity and chemical pollutants, according to the site.
Where is the most polluted lake in the U.S.?
In Central New York, you’ll find Onondaga Lake, which holds a rather unfortunate title: the most polluted lake in the United States. This lake is not only one of the most polluted in the nation but also ranks among the most contaminated lakes worldwide.
See the full study and ranking here.
Michigan Endangered Species List Is Now Up To 407 Species
Michigan’s Threatened and Endangered list got its seventh update in nearly 50 years. Now, the list shows a total of 407 species are threatened and endangered. Experts from universities, the Michigan Natural Features Inventory, other conservation organizations, and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recommended changes to the list based on recent data.
36 species were removed from the list, including trumpeter swans. However, 58 species were added to the list. “When people come together to collaborate on conservation, we can recover rare species,” said DNR endangered species specialist Jennifer Kleitch. “For instance, trumpeter swans were just removed from Michigan’s threatened and endangered species list. Their populations have grown as a result of significant conservation efforts by many partners over decades.”
What animals were removed from the threatened and endangered list?
Although the trumpeter swan has been removed from Michigan’s list of threatened and endangered species, it is still federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
Three bat species, including the little brown bat, northern long-eared bat, and tri-colored bat, have been listed as threatened due to significant population declines in Michigan resulting from white-nose syndrome. Rusty-patched bumblebees and American bumblebees were added to the endangered species list because, like many pollinator species, their populations are seeing large declines.
“Many threatened and endangered species rely on high-quality natural areas that benefit all of us by providing clean water, clean air and places for us to enjoy nature. When species are struggling, it can indicate declines in the functioning of those natural areas, which in turn can impact our quality of life,” Kleitch said.
“The addition is sad yet a great move.”
The DNR took to Twitter to share more information about the list and one user shared their thoughts. “The addition is sad yet a great move. The only thing worse than being an endangered species is being an extinct species due to the fact of not being helped as much as a protected listing can,” said a comment under their post.
See a full list of the state’s threatened and endangered plants and animals on the Michigan Natural Features Inventory website.
Kayla is the midday host on Detroit’s 105.1 The Bounce. She started her career in radio back in 2016 as an intern at another Detroit station and worked her way here. She's made stops in Knoxville, TN, Omaha, Ne and other places before returning to Detroit. She’s done almost everything in radio from promotions to web, creating content on social media, you name it.
She’s a true Michigander, born and raised. So, you can catch her camping or vacationing up north to exploring the downtown Detroit or maybe even catching a sports game. During her free time, Kayla enjoys watching movies, roller-skating, crafting, and music festivals. She and her husband together dip into many of the great things Michigan has to offer. Together they also like to travel.
A few hobbies of hers include wine and beer tastings, crafting, hiking, roller skating, movies, home improvement projects, gardening, and festivals. She’s always looking to take on more local events happening in the community.
She loves connecting with the community. When writing, Kayla covers topics including lifestyle, pop culture, trending stories, hacks, and urban culture.
