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Grassroots democracy is at stake as Ontario warms to the idea of abolishing school boards, warns an education expert who is also a trustee

A crumbling, century-old dam in AuTrain Township could threaten local businesses and public safety, with some worried about a dam failure or its possible removal. What does that mean for dams elsewhere in the state.

By Donté Smith 
Butterfly populations are in decline across the continental U.S., dropping by 22% between 2000 and 2020 according to a study in the journal Science. Almost a third of the 342 species studied have seen their numbers fall by more than half.  To help combat that trend, the John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids, Michigan, launched its Great Lakes Rare Butterfly Program in 2021 to protect the region’s most threatened species.

The post John Ball Zoo Fights for Great Lakes’ Rarest Butterflies first appeared on Great Lakes Echo.

But Michigan's lack of statewide septic regulations makes dealing with it a little more complicated. Efforts in Lansing to establish a septic code have fallen short, but there are bills currently in legislative committees that would deal with the issue. The state currently relies on county and local governments to create and enforce their own regulations.

Statewide campaigns to get various questions on the 2026 ballot in Michigan are collecting signatures — including for three proposed state constitutional amendments.

The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) has seen the profileration of chatbots, a new kind of interface

By Donté Smith 
The Great Lakes, a vital freshwater expanse for millions, face an ongoing environmental crisis. Beneath the vast waters lies a significant threat: pollution stemming largely from agricultural runoff. This flow of excess nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen contributes to harmful algal blooms and expanding “dead zones,” jeopardizing ecosystems, water quality and public health across the region. Amidst these challenges, Barn Sanctuary in Chelsea, Michigan, works to make a positive impact on the region. Tom McKernan, sanctuary co-founder and operations director, wants the farm to stand as a living model where animal welfare and ecological stewardship aren’t just compatible, but linked.

The post Empowering environmental stewardship: Barn sanctuary champions compassion and Conservation first appeared on Great Lakes Echo.

anadians must be certain lower fares that result from increased competition are worth the costs, an Western University academic says

ow to support and feed your plants for a bountiful harvest.

t’s happening at 7 p.m. at Sunset Park, on East Front Street in Traverse City, and it’s organized by SALT – Spiritual Activists Leading Together.

Kincardine will host a full-time family medicine residency program beginning next year. “This approval is a significant milestone for our community,” Dr. Jason Murray, residency program site director, said in a July 24 news release. “Not only does it elevate Kincardine’s role in training the next generation of physicians, but it also enhances our community’s […]

Woodstock police have equipped frontline officers with body cameras, following the lead of other municipal police forces in the London area.