Federal grant launches a pilot program for nuclear plants to produce hydrogen for fuel cells. A Canadian barge loaded with fuel and coal tar runs aground near Lake Superior and Lake Huron, with no pollution reported. Minnesota regulators approve a new contested case hearing over Enbridge Line 3 permit, delaying the project. First Nations and university educators in Ontario demand a halt to further mining exploration during the pandemic.

Energy-related developments in the Great Lakes area include a failed smokestack demolition in Chicago releasing dust, toxic coal ash remaining on Michigan shorelines as coal plants close, Wisconsin and Minnesota utilities reconsidering water withdrawal for a natural gas plant, Ohio consumer advocates pushing to divert energy efficiency funds to COVID-19 relief, and Enbridge continuing its Line 5 pipeline replacement project under the St. Clair River.

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, water rights advocates are urging Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan to take more decisive action to ensure access to clean water for residents in Detroit, Flint, and other southeast Michigan cities. Despite a moratorium on water shutoffs and efforts to restore water connections, many homes remain without water. Advocacy groups are calling for the installation of public drinking and sanitation stations and express frustration over the perceived lack of urgency from state officials. Local officials and organizations are taking steps to address the crisis, but challenges such as legal obstacles and bottled water scarcity persist.

The article explores the historical development of energy utilities in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, focusing on the mining and logging boom of the mid-1800s and subsequent demographic shifts. It details the rise and fall of mining towns, the role of hydroelectricity, and the formation of the Upper Peninsula Power Company. The narrative connects these historical developments to the present-day Line 5 pipeline controversy, highlighting its significance in transporting Canadian oil and providing propane to the region. The article also discusses the transition from coal to natural gas, exemplified by the closure of the Presque Isle Power Plant and the establishment of new natural gas facilities.

Wisconsin aims to eliminate carbon-based fuel by 2050 under Governor Tony Evers' executive order, despite opposition from Republican senators. The Detroit Zoo plans to be entirely wind-powered by 2021, thanks to new wind parks by DTE Energy. A controversial transmission line in Wisconsin has been approved to carry wind energy from Iowa and Minnesota. Concerns arise in West Michigan over potential coal ash contamination from a Consumers Energy plant. In Ohio, a petition seeks to repeal a bill providing $150 million in annual subsidies to bail out two nuclear power plants, with opposing groups campaigning for and against the referendum.

Aquila Resources, a Toronto-based company, is seeking permits from Michigan's EGLE to construct mine facilities near the Menominee River. The Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin has filed a lawsuit against Aquila, claiming Michigan lacked authority to grant a wetlands permit, which should fall under federal jurisdiction. The case was dismissed but is being appealed. Critics like Al Gedicks and organizations like the Wisconsin Resources Protection Council oppose the mine due to environmental and cultural concerns. The Menominee Tribe was not formally consulted initially, and their requests for archaeological involvement and on-site monitors during construction were denied. Aquila has assured due diligence in protecting cultural sites, with provisions for unexpected discoveries. Menikanaehkem, a grassroots organization, is actively opposing the mine, emphasizing the environmental risks of sulfide mining. Aquila has obtained two permits and is pursuing the remaining ones, with public comments on the dam safety permit being accepted until July 23.

The Wyandotte art exhibit in Detroit focuses on water activism and Indigenous American artwork, particularly highlighting the activism of Standing Rock water protectors. The exhibit features photographs by Levi Rickert and artwork by local Native Americans, addressing issues such as water quality, tribal sovereignty, and treaty rights. Dr. Kay McGowan and other speakers emphasize the environmental concerns and the broader implications of these issues for America. The exhibit also showcases cultural contributions from Native American communities, including photographs of pow-wows and beadwork.

Cleveland is experiencing a growing influx of cruise passengers, with Destination Cleveland reporting an increase from 1,500 passengers in 2017 to an expected 29 cruise ship dockings in 2019. Efforts to attract younger tourists focus on the city's craft breweries, foodie scene, and sports culture, while maintaining appeal to Generation X and Boomers through world-class arts and culture. The Port of Cleveland, despite its industrial nature, offers adequate facilities for cruise ships. Tourism has significantly contributed to the local economy, with an $8.8 billion impact in 2017. Key attractions include the Cleveland Orchestra and Cleveland Museum of Art, drawing both domestic and international visitors.

The Great Lakes cruise ship industry has seen significant growth, with five cruise lines operating seven ships and more expansions expected in 2020. The region's 40 million residents and initiatives by former Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder have contributed to the industry's revival. The Great Lakes Cruising Coalition has been instrumental in this growth, promoting the area as an intimate cruise region. The small size of Great Lakes cruise ships offers advantages such as access to remote islands and personal experiences. On-board life includes coastal city explorations, natural vistas, and historical tours with onboard lecturers. For those interested, information on departures and pricing is available from various cruise companies, and travel agents advise carrying a passport or travel visa for itineraries between the U.S. and Canada. The cruising season starts in mid-May, with the best time to travel being June and July to coincide with destination cities' summer festivals.

The proposed removal of the Sixth Street Dam in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is facing delays due to the need to control invasive sea lamprey and protect endangered snuffbox mussels. The dam, originally installed in the mid-1800s, is now a public health hazard, and its removal is part of a river revitalization project. An adjustable structure by Obermeyer Hydro, Inc. is planned to control lamprey migration. The discovery of snuffbox mussels has necessitated conservation efforts, including relocation to new habitats upstream. The project, coordinated by the Grand Valley Metropolitan Council and Grand Rapids Whitewater, is still in the planning phase, with no set timeline for completion.

Researchers at Michigan State University are developing a computer model to enhance the sustainability of pasture-based dairy farming in Michigan. The model aims to optimize milk production by considering farm economics, water and energy use, and carbon dioxide emissions. It provides farmers with sustainable options based on local climate and pasture composition. The project, which uses data from the USDA and MSU Extension, also examines the impact of climate change on dairy farming. The researchers plan to expand the model to the Great Lakes basin and collaborate with researchers in Costa Rica and Colombia.

Neil J. Lehto's book 'The Thirty-Year War: The History of Detroit Streetcars, 1892-1922' explores the extensive history of the world's largest municipally owned streetcar system in Detroit. Lehto, an attorney with a background in journalism, delves into the legal and municipal challenges of the streetcar industry, including public franchising and fare disputes. The book, published by Michigan State University Press, also touches on the interpersonal drama between figures like Mayor Hazen Pingree and businessman James H. McMillan. Despite the comprehensive coverage of the early years, Lehto acknowledges the complexity of extending the history to 1956, which would involve broader social and technological issues.

A legal challenge by the Indiana Forest Alliance against the expansion of the Crown Hill National Cemetery in Indianapolis was dropped, allowing the project to proceed. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) faced criticism for its environmental assessment process, but courts ruled in favor of the VA. The VA has revised the site plan to preserve mature trees, with construction expected to resume by the end of summer.

Neonicotinoids, widely used insecticides, are controversial for their impact on pollinators like honeybees but are also crucial in combating the invasive emerald ash borer. The recent designation of the rusty patched bumble bee as endangered has intensified debates on banning neonicotinoids. Former Michigan Rep. Gretchen Driskell proposed a bill to ban these insecticides, reflecting a broader trend in the U.S. However, experts like Deborah McCullough and Meghan Milbrath suggest a balanced approach, considering alternative treatments and the complex interplay of factors affecting pollinators. The Michigan Pollinator Protection Plan aims to address these issues without outright bans, focusing on stakeholder input and pesticide labeling.

A Minnesota man, Joshua Liebl, accused of poaching deer, won a court decision to suppress evidence obtained without a search warrant. The Minnesota Court of Appeals ruled that the lack of a warrant violated Liebl's constitutional rights, leading to the dismissal of charges. The case involved Conservation Officer Edward Picht, who used a GPS device to track Liebl's truck without a search warrant. The court's decision was influenced by a 2012 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that attaching a GPS device constitutes a search under the Fourth Amendment. The prosecution has until Wednesday to decide whether to seek a review by the Minnesota Supreme Court.

Michigan Governor Rick Snyder declared the state's portion of Lake Erie as impaired, a move that could bring federal resources to combat toxic algae blooms threatening water quality and recreational activities. Environmental groups praised the decision and urged Ohio to follow suit, criticizing Ohio's limited action on the issue. The declaration aligns with a regional goal to reduce phosphorous runoff, a key contributor to algae growth, by 40% by 2025.

The Ontario Water Rangers, a non-profit organization, won $5,000 in the Great Lakes Observing System (GLOS) data challenge for their innovative app that allows citizens to contribute to water quality data collection. The app, which functions like a Google Map, enables users to input observations such as wind speed, algae growth, and invasive species. The initiative, led by co-founders Kat Kavanagh and Mark Dabrowski, aims to bridge the gap between scientific data and public engagement. The app's development was inspired by Kavanagh's personal experiences and has garnered support from various organizations, including Ottawa Riverkeepers and Aquatics Informatics. The prize money will be used to enhance the app's features and usability, with a focus on engaging children and fostering a sense of environmental stewardship.