The 2024 State of the Great Lakes Report reveals key challenges and progress in safeguarding Michigan’s vital water resources, inspiring statewide stewardship.
Annual Report Underscores Michigan’s Water Stewardship Responsibility
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) released its 2024 State of the Great Lakes Report on December 20, urging residents to embrace their shared role in protecting Michigan’s water resources. Highlighting both accomplishments and ongoing challenges, the report calls for renewed commitment to preserving the Great Lakes, which hold 21% of the world’s fresh surface water and serve as a critical lifeline for millions in the U.S. and Canada.
“Our waters are central to our heritage, key to our economy, and a critical natural resource,” said EGLE Director Liesl Clark. The report emphasizes collective action to address issues such as pollution, invasive species, and climate impacts while advancing sustainability and economic development.
Economic and Ecological Importance of the Great Lakes
The Great Lakes region plays a vital economic and environmental role, supporting more than 1.3 million jobs and generating $82 billion in wages annually, according to a Michigan Sea Grant study of 2018 data. Adjusted for 2024, this represents over $100 million in economic impact. The lakes also provide drinking water for over 30 million people and support diverse industries, from agriculture to tourism.
The report highlights how Michigan’s leadership is essential to addressing challenges like harmful algal blooms in Lake Erie, invasive species prevention, and sustainable water management practices.
Key Focus Areas and Achievements in 2024
The comprehensive report outlines critical areas of action, including:
- Combating Harmful Algal Blooms: A Domestic Action Plan Team works to reduce phosphorus levels in Lake Erie to curb nutrient loading.
- Restoring Iconic Species: Efforts are underway to reintroduce Arctic grayling and lake whitefish to Michigan rivers and lakes.
- Invasive Species Prevention: An interstate agreement accelerates work on a barrier to block invasive carp from entering the Great Lakes.
- Blue-Green Economy Development: A Michigan Maritime Strategy is advancing clean energy initiatives and sustainable economic practices.
- Environmental Justice and Equity: Programs focus on pollution remediation in historically impacted communities like Benton Harbor.
- Stormwater Management: Infrastructure upgrades aim to address climate-induced challenges, improving resilience in urban and rural areas.
EGLE Senior Advisor Emily Finnell described the report as both a celebration of progress and a roadmap for future action. “I believe every reader will find cause for celebration along with motivation to do even better,” Finnell said.
Regional Highlights: From Benton Harbor to Northern Michigan
The report provides a region-specific breakdown of projects across Michigan, showcasing community-driven initiatives such as:
- Detroit River Sediment Cleanup: Collaborative efforts are addressing over a century of pollution in this designated Area of Concern.
- Ox Creek Restoration: Benton Harbor residents continue to lead efforts to improve water quality in one of West Michigan’s key watersheds.
- Coastal Wetland Conservation: A new planning blueprint will guide wetland protection in areas like Saginaw Bay and the Lake Erie Basin.
- K-12 Water Education: The “From Students to Stewards” initiative expands place-based environmental learning for Michigan’s youth.
Inspiring a Future of Collective Action
As EGLE’s Office of the Great Lakes approaches its 40th anniversary, the report serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility Michiganders bear in preserving these irreplaceable resources. The agency’s partnerships with local governments, non-profits, and academic institutions underscore the importance of collaboration in tackling water challenges.
With topics ranging from stormwater management to water-related mental health benefits, the report provides an in-depth look at the interconnectedness of Michigan’s water systems and communities.
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