Local Stories

Local stories provide a view into what’s happening on the ground in Great Lakes Communities. These snippets are from sources ranging from news articles to organizational outreach items. They show current hazards impacts as well as proactive resilience activities underway in communities now.

How are climate and hazards impacting the people and activities of your community? Contact us to share your story!

  • Protecting Wetland Benefits in Ozaukee County

    Wisconsin, Ozaukee County

    Wetlands provide many benefits to humans and the natural environment. Restoring and conserving wetlands within the floodplain provides more opportunities for experiencing those co-benefits into the future.

  • Toledo’s Chronic Urban Flooding

    Ohio, Lucas County, Toledo

    The City of Toledo – situated in the low-lying area also known as the Great Black Swamp – is susceptible to flooding and drainage problems.

  • St. Joseph Protects Public Trust with Ground Breaking Ordinance

    Michigan, Berrien County, St. Joseph

    In the fall of 2012 the St. Joseph City Commission voted and passed a “no-build” zoning ordinance, which is is the first of its kind in the state of Michigan.

  • Climate Change Implications for the Port of Toledo

    Ohio, Lucas County, Toledo

    TOLEDO, Ohio – On average, two big ships call every day at the docks of this Lake Erie city. To ensure the ships do not scrape the bottom of the shallow port at the mouth of the silty Maumee, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers annually dredges 700,000 cubic meters (900,000 cubic yards) of mud and sand from the channel, or 1 million metric tons a year.

  • Wetland Restoration Rehabilitates Critical Bird Habitat and Protects Millions in Annual Revenue

    Ohio, Ottawa County, Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge

    In northwestern Ohio, federal, state, and regional partners have joined forces to restore coastal wetlands that provide critical habitat for migratory birds. These restoration activities simultaneously nurture the booming regional tourist industry that depends on their presence.

  • Les Cheneaux Watershed Council Combats Invasive Species to Preserve Recreational Opportunities

    Michigan, Mackinac County, Clark Township

    Since its inception the Les Cheneaux watershed has been known for its pristine waters and recreational opportunities. In 2002, residents of abutting Clark Township first observed the presence of Eurasian Watermilfoil. Since its detection, residents of the township and the local watershed council have organized to contain and combat this invasive weed.