Michigan lacks statewide standards for septic systems, resulting in thousands of failing systems that can release untreated sewage, contaminating groundwater and posing risks to the environment and public health.

Michigan has an estimated 1.3 million septic systems.  Around 25% of those systems are failing, releasing untreated wastewater that can contaminate groundwater and surface water with harmful pathogens like E. coli. Homeowners can help protect their systems by having tanks inspected and pumped regularly, conserving water to prevent overload, and avoiding flushing harmful materials like wipes, grease, or chemicals.

Events

September 21, 2025

Looking Glass River - Fall River Clean Up

Our fall clean up will be on September 21nd, 2025! This clean up will be tackling the Babcock Rd to Wood Rd section of the...

September 25, 2025

2025 Great Lakes Conference

2025 Great Lakes Conference – September 25-26, 2025 Hyatt Regency, Rochester, NY We look forward to spending two days with you in Rochester! Plenaries and...

Featured Partner

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Alliance for the Great Lakes

The mission of Alliance for the Great Lakes is to protect, conserve, and restore the Great Lakes, ensuring healthy water in the lakes and in our communities for all generations of people and wildlife. We advance our mission as advocates for policies that support the lakes and communities, by building the research, analysis, and partnerships that motivate action, and by educating and uniting people as a voice for the Great Lakes.

Featured Producer

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Telumendil Orchard and Gardens

Telumendil Orchard and Farms s a first year regenerative farm in Haslett, MI producing cut flowers, vegetables, herbs, and fruit.

News

State Study Reveals Widespread Microplastics

Michigan has begun statewide testing of rivers and streams for microplastics, and early results show they are widespread, regardless of location. Using a $2 million appropriation, the Department of Environment, […]

Manoomin and the Future of Tawas Lake

Tawas Lake in East Tawas, Michigan, is home to the state’s largest bed of native wild rice, or manoomin, a culturally significant food for the Anishinaabe people and a keystone […]

Toolkit

In Your Home

The decisions we make in our homes can affect our water resources.  Learn tips to minimize your impact on Michigan’s waterways by making small changes in the appliances you use, how you store and dispose of chemicals, how you do your laundry, and more!

In Your Yard

Yard care is a huge responsibility, especially when you consider how your choices impact local waterways.  By selecting greener options for landscaping, maintenance of your septic system, application of lawn chemicals, and other yardwork, you can better protect your water resources.

In Your Community

Enjoying Michigan’s wide variety of recreational opportunities in the outdoors brings added responsibilities to protect our natural resources.  Learn how to minimize plastic pollution in our waterways, prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species, and other tips to keep our shared outdoor spaces healthy and clean!

Resources

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Lesson Plans

Check out these free lesson plans on water conservation and other science topics organized by grade level.

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Videos

Browse environmental videos on a variety of topics like agriculture, the Great Lakes, the water cycle, wildlife, and more!

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Reading Material

Here you’ll find free books, magazines, and online library collections to read up on your favorite conservation topics.

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We’re all connected by water.