Students Win State Environmental Competition

Students from St. Clair County Technical Education Center, called the Clever Coyotes, won first place at the Michigan Envirothon in Kalamazoo. They competed against top high school teams statewide, showing strong skills in environmental science and natural resource conservation. Sponsored by the Blue Water Area Conservation District, the team tackled challenges on topics like water ecology, renewable energy, soils, agriculture, wildlife, and forestry. The students, from Yale, Port Huron Northern, and Algonac high schools, gain hands-on experience.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Health Department Moves to New Location

Starting Monday, June 9th, the St. Clair County Health Department is moving its main office from 28th Street to a new downtown location at 220 Fort Street in Port Huron. Some services will pause the week before, from June 2nd to June 6, and certain programs may be limited or remote during that time. The public is invited to an Open House on June 26, from 4 to 6 p.m., to tour the new facility and enjoy refreshments. For updates, visit scchealth.co

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Ship Drifts Near U.S. Shore

On Wednesday, the American Spirit, a huge 1,000-foot cargo ship, drifted close to the U.S. shore while moving upriver on the St. Clair River near the Blue Water Bridge. The strong current in that spot likely pushed the vessel toward the American bank before it corrected its path. This U.S.-flagged ship, part of the American Steamship Company, can carry over 62,000 tons and is powered by powerful diesel engines. The close call caused concern but ended without incident.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Historic Fire Station B Demolished

In Port Huron, the old Central Fire Station, a 65-year community landmark, is being torn down to make way for new possibilities along the Black River. The site was cleared of asbestos and approved for teardown late last year. The demolition, which started May 19th and will wrap up by June 23rd, follows the fire department’s move to a modern 10th Street station last August. The outdated 515 River St. building couldn’t meet today’s needs, so the city’s giving retired firefighters engraved bricks to honor their service.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet