Nearshore
Study highlights fragility of Lake Michigan dunes
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New information about sand dunes along Lake Michigan is expected to improve protection of archeological sites, researchers and planners say.
Recreation
Bucks disappear Up North in more ways than one
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Michigan deer hunting is a $1 billion-a-year industry but last year license sales dropped 4 percent from previous years.
The state is attempting to boost hunting tourism with new campaigns like advertising that targets out-of-state hunters.
Echo
Animal rabies worries state officials
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Rabies remains a problem in Michigan, with 70 animals testing positive in 2010. Most cases of animal rabies are reported in the Lower Peninsula, especially in the southeast. There were 68 positive animal tests last year, 79 in 2007 and 47 in 2001.
Echo
State pushes green initiatives for local communities
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A set of initiatives by the Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth is making it easier for communities to go green. Program goals include developing recycling and household hazardous waste programs for residents and businesses.
Echo
New auto trail expands birdwatching near Saginaw Bay
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A 7.5-mile auto trail through Michigan’s Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge will open in May. The trail would allow visitors to observe birds in the refuge like the bald eagle and peregrine falcon.
Echo
Michigan seeks to preserve biodiversity
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Michigan is making strides in protecting its unique landscapes and wildlife.
The Department of Natural Resources and Environment (DNRE) initiated a “Living Legacies” program to identify, restore and manage places that best represent the state’s biodiversity.
Water
New technology unveiled to test beach contamination
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A laser developed at Purdue University can shine through E. coli samples to determine what kind of animal hosts bacteria that prompt a beach to close.
The method could make finding the source of contamination quicker and cheaper.
Echo
Energy-saving efforts give ski resorts a lift
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Ski areas are major energy users when keeping buildings warm, making snow and operating lifts.
To address these issues, some Michigan ski areas are making environmental choices inspired by a global trend in eco-tourism.
Echo
Better technology could lower deaths from indoor air pollutant
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Carbon monoxide poisoning causes 400 deaths a year nationwide.
In Michigan the death rate is declining.
Experts say that may be because of better detection of the deadly gas associated with malfunctioning furnaces.
Echo
New invasive fruit fly could threaten Michigan berries
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A new invasive fly has Michigan researchers working to protect next season’s fruit crop.
Almost $20,000 of federal money went to Michigan State University for early detection and rapid response of the spotted wing drosophila.