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MSU Extension Center for Lakes and Streams

  • Center for Lakes and Streams

The mission of the MSU Extension Center for Lakes and Streams is to advance the conservation and stewardship of Michigan’s inland lakes and streams through engagement, education, and research.

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Reduce Invasive Pet and Plant Escapes (RIPPLE)

Clean Boats Clean Waters

Introduction to Lakes Online

Conservation Stewards Program

Septic System Education

Michigan Lake and Stream Leaders Institute

Water School

Michigan Clean Water Corps

Our mission is to advance the conservation and stewardship of Michigan’s inland lakes and streams through engagement, education, and research. Michigan State University Extension has a long and noteworthy history of advancing the conservation and stewardship of Michigan's inland lakes and streams. We offer science-based programming and direct interaction with diverse stakeholders including waterfront property owners, lake and stream organizations, natural resource management agencies, private service providers, decision makers, and students. We engage in research collaborations, offer educational events, and lead impactful programs that advance our mission. 

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News

  • Invasive hydrilla, a “monster aquatic weed,” discovered for the first time in Michigan waters

    Published on October 3, 2023
    Here’s how to prevent the spread of invasive hydrilla.

  • Found a frog in your food? Don’t let it loose.

    Published on August 14, 2023
    What to do if you find a stowaway.

  • Identifying and managing invasive Eurasian and hybrid watermilfoils in Michigan lakes

    Published on August 9, 2023
    Some hybrids of this invasive plant are resistant to herbicides, making genetic testing critical for management.

  • RIPPLE partners with Motor City Aquarium Society to host Exotic Fish Surrender Event

    Published on August 1, 2023
    Do you have aquarium or water garden pets you can no longer care for? Surrender unwanted freshwater fish, crayfish, snails, and plants at the first-ever RIPPLE surrender event August 10 in Warren.

  • Green stormwater infrastructure: Building sustainable and resilient communities

    Published on July 28, 2023
    Green stormwater infrastructure practices can protect waterways by reducing pollutants.

  • Invasive yellow floating heart: A previously popular water garden plant causes problems in Michigan’s lakes and ponds

    Published on June 28, 2023
    The invasive yellow floating heart was once common in water gardens across Michigan, but has been a prohibited plant in Michigan for over a decade.

  • Educational packaging coming to a local pet and pond retailer near you

    Published on June 15, 2023
    The RIPPLE program reminds pond and aquarium keepers to be responsible owners and never release unwanted plants or pets into waterways.

  • The long lived benefits of trees

    Published on June 15, 2023
    Trees provide valuable lake habitat long after their lives on land have ended.

  • Stop the Cray – Drink Away! A look inside a new collaboration for invasive species education

    Published on June 8, 2023
    MSU Extension and Trail Point Brewing Co. have joined forces to spread awareness of troublesome aquatic invasive species through a new innovative outreach and education event this summer.

  • Freshwater friends: Who’s under that shell

    Published on May 16, 2023
    Michigan’s lakes, streams, and wetlands are home to ten different species of turtles that are frequently spotted in the spring basking and nesting.

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MSU Extension Center for Lakes and Streams

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