MSU Extension Water Quality

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  Water Quality

  MSU Extension works with community leaders to create water-protection strategies, landowners and industry to reduce risks of water pollution, and state agencies to develop water quality information systems.

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  Controlled drainage isn’t just for flat fields anymore

  Published on August 28, 2025
  New research from Michigan State University shows controlled drainage can reduce nitrate loss even on sloped fields, challenging long-standing recommendations.

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  Alpena students learn while caring for island habitats of local community park

  Published on June 29, 2017
  Elementary students tackle critical Great Lakes and natural resource conservation issues, enhance their community, and enjoy a little hands-on learning along the way.

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  HABs videos offer tips for a healthy pond or lake

  Published on April 24, 2025
  Three online presentations cover topics including septic systems, nutrient budgets, direct management options of HABs, and more.

• Rain barrels are economical and ecological

  Published on June 28, 2012
  Rain barrels can save money and energy for homeowners as they simultaneously reduce water quality pollution.

• Planning with water in mind: Part Two

  Published on October 20, 2017
  Communities can help insure water availability

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  Why should I get an MSU Soil Test?

  Published on March 17, 2016
  Why you should test your garden’s soil and what you’ll learn when using MSU Extension’s handy soil test kit.

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  Enrollment now open: Popular MSU Extension course Introduction to Lakes Online offered January 2026

  Published on September 3, 2025
  Register today for this unique opportunity to learn about inland lakes.

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  Saturated buffers: Proven practice with new surprises

  Published on September 4, 2025
  Saturated buffers have long been promoted as a way to reduce nitrate loss from tile-drained farmland, but just how effective are they?

• Do not release invasive species: Part 1

  Published on December 4, 2013
  When managing water features, contractors and water gardeners can prevent the introduction of Aquatic Invasive Species into natural waterways by using proper disposal methods.

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  Great Lakes Fisheries Heritage Trail: Evelyn S. still making history

  Published on March 28, 2016
  The Michigan Maritime Museum offers visitors the chance to board the historic Great Lakes fish tug Evelyn S. and peer into the daily life of a commercial fisherman.

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  Keeping your residential beach safe for friends and family

  Published on August 20, 2015
  Being confident that your beach is safe for use by family and friends is important to waterfront property owners. A current participant in Michigan State University Extension’s Lake & Stream Leaders Institute shares some helpful tips.

• Clean water checklist

  Published on July 8, 2015
  Help protect water resources by adopting one or more of the actions on this checklist.

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  Great Lakes water levels for the summer of 2015 - what’s up (or not)?

  Published on May 8, 2015
  In January of 2013 record-low levels for Lake Michigan were recorded. In 2014, Great Lakes water levels rebounded. What’s the forecast for summer 2015 lake levels?

• Late summer algae blooms may cause problems in farm ponds

  Published on August 5, 2013
  Harmful algal blooms (HABs) in farm ponds can pose risk to people, pets and livestock. Learn to recognize HABs when using farm ponds for swimming and watering livestock.

• To safeguard Michigan’s water resources, check before choosing fertilizers

  Published on July 24, 2012
  Following these four simple steps will help you determine what kind of fertilizer you need for your lawn and garden – if any – and how much.

• Was 2012’s winter a sign of global warming?

  Published on April 3, 2012
  While a year is not a trend, researchers analyzing temperature trends are pointing to the wide spread of higher temperatures as one indicator of global climate change, which would have a significant impact for the Great Lakes region.

• What total maximum daily load (TMDL) means to agriculture

  Published on November 12, 2012
  TMDL is becoming a common term in rural communities. It’s important for farmers to understand how TMDLs affect nearby watersheds.

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  Southeast Michigan Crop and Pest Management Update held in Hillsdale on February 20

  Published on January 15, 2025
  Hear from Michigan State University and Ohio State University specialists, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, and get the latest MSU Weed Control Guide for Field Crops.

• What’s that pipe in my backyard?

  Published on December 27, 2013
  Abandoned wells pose a great risk to our water supply.

• Michigan Sea Grant Extension and Earth Week 2013 – focus on Marine Debris

  Published on April 23, 2013
  Michigan Sea Grant Extension is working to reduce marine debris in the Great Lakes, and you can too!