This week’s articles by MSU faculty, specialists, and students making a difference feature hidden viruses in lake trout, health disparities in wastewater, and chemical risks in drinking water mapped by AI.

This week’s articles by MSU faculty, specialists, and students making a difference feature smarter farm technology, biodiversity in vacant lots, and new evidence linking lead in food to health risks.

Lansing is preparing to launch the first Bubble Barrier in the U.S., an emerging technology that uses a stream of air bubbles to push plastic out of the Grand River before it enters the Great Lakes.

This week’s articles by MSU faculty, specialists, and students making a difference feature climate impacts on Mekong River flooding, PFAS exposure linked to maternal mental health, and natural gas reactions driven by underground water and rock interactions.

Starting in 2014, Lake Michigan, like the other Great Lakes, experienced increasingly high water levels, peaking in 2020. As water levels and wave energy increased during this time period, so did beach, dune, and bluff erosion. 

The Michigan State University Extension Center for Lakes and Streams released a new resource for anyone who spends time near Michigan’s waterways.

For public health officials, researchers, and community leaders, the end of swim season signals the start of another cycle. The work of testing water quality and tracking contamination continues well into the fall.

MSU’s Department of Fisheries and Wildlife (FW) marked its 75th anniversary with a two-day program Sept. 12-13, 2025, highlighting the department’s many impacts, including long-standing ties to water.

When a virus spreads through a community, the first warning sign is often in the sewer. Step inside MSU’s Water Quality and Environmental Microbiology Lab, also known as the Rose Lab, where scientists use wastewater to track viruses and protect public health.

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.