This 2-minute informational video explains how septic systems work and what happens if they fail. Hear from MSU researchers and community experts about how better maintenance and monitoring can help protect Michigan’s water.

As summer fades away, the memories of being on board the RV Lake Guardian remain strong for two Michigan educators.

Do you know what to do if your kayak or paddleboard flips while you’re out on the water? Reduce the stress of that moment and learn how to have a safe kayak trip by checking out some of the free or low-cost resources now available. 

This week’s articles by MSU faculty and collaborators making a difference feature wastewater tracking of underreported illness in Detroit and household surveys revealing water insecurity across the U.S.

The Tollgate Drain Wetlands in Lansing Township are part of the region’s stormwater system, designed to collect and filter runoff before it reaches the Grand River. But next spring, visitors will find something new at the water’s edge: poetry.

The Michigan Natural Shoreline and Shallows Conference, taking place on Friday, October 17, 2025, at the Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center in East Lansing. The theme for this year’s conference is “Restoring Resiliency to Shorelines.”

One popular learning opportunity is the Introduction to Lakes Online course available through the Michigan State University Extension Center for Lakes and Streams.

Joan Rose, director of the Water Alliance and the Homer Nowlin Chair in Water Research at MSU discusses Legionnaires' disease during an interview with CBC Listen.

Learn more about the Reduce Invasive Pet and Plant Escapes (RIPPLE) program, a partnership between MSU Extension and the Michigan Departments of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy; Natural Resources; and Agriculture and Rural Development.

New research from Michigan State University shows controlled drainage can reduce nitrate loss even on sloped fields, challenging long-standing recommendations.

MSU's Institute of Water Research upgrades SIDMA, advancing social indicator tracking for nonpoint source pollution programs.

Reducing detection time means treatments can be given earlier to improve people’s health