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.

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. The course is designed for anyone interested in inland lakes including lakefront property owners, local government officials, lake managers, and educators

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.

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

Fish frys, on-boat experiences are opportunities to learn about aquaculture, fisheries education for consumers and legislators.

This week’s articles by MSU faculty, specialists, and students making a difference feature cold-stored E. coli in lettuce, invasive carp behavior in Lake Erie, and groundwater reshaping stream chemistry.