environment

Earth Fair Registration Is Now Open

The popular St. Clair County Earth Fair event will be making its return this year to Goodells County Park, and applications are now being accepted.

The St. Clair County Earth Fair has been taking place since 2003 and has since grown to be Michigan’s largest Earth Day event. The goal of the two-day event is to spread awareness about how to maintain the environment, and to create sustainable green living. 

Vendors, school classroom field trips, event volunteers and Green Guardian Award nominations are all welcome to fill out their applications to reserve a spot. Anyone with an environmental product, message or service may apply to be an Earth Fair vendor. The application deadline is March 15th.

The Earth Fair will be held on Friday, April 28th, from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Saturday, April 29th from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

For more information, and applications visit: EarthDayFair.com. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Consumption Guidelines For Rainbow Smelt And Carp To Protect Your Health

Being located on the Great Lakes is a blessing for local fishermen, but it’s important to know the potential health effects of consuming certain types of fish in the area.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has released updated information for their Eat Safe Fish guidelines which recommend limiting the amount of smelt and carp ingested from certain local areas. 

There have been elevated levels of perfluorooctane sulfonates (PFOS) found in the smelt as well as elevated levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB’s) found in carp. These chemicals can build up in the fish which then can cause a buildup in humans. The effects of these chemicals in humans aren’t fully known, but may cause neurotoxicity, thyroid disruption, and reproductive toxicity, to name a few. 

For a complete list of areas that are safe or unsafe, visit: michigan.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Be Prepared For Winter Safety Hazards

Here in Michigan we just experienced our first winter blizzard of the year, and hopefully our last. Not only does it make traveling a nightmare, but the winter cold and winds have a devastating effect on other aspects of our lives as well.

With the winds reaching speeds up to 40 – 50mph, it can cause trees and branches to topple, as well as electric wires. Make sure to cut your tree branches around your property to prevent any unnecessary accidents. In case of power outages be sure to stock up on candles, and purchase a generator if possible. 

Those leaving their home for extended periods, should be sure to keep the temperature of your home to at least 65 degrees, shut off water and drain pipes as well, to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michiganders Prepare For Potential Winter Storm

Those who are planning to travel to or from Michigan for the Christmas holiday should be aware of a potential winter snowstorm that may affect your travel plans.

There are reports of a storm possibly hitting Michigan on Thursday, with a watch in effect until Saturday evening. Blizzard-like conditions, with high winds that can potentially cause power outages for residents are a possibility according to the National Weather Service. The storm would most likely affect road travel due to snow and slippery conditions. Those traveling by plane may also face the potential of dealing with canceled or delayed flights. 

Michigan counties that may be affected include: Macomb, Jackson, Kalamazoo, Oakland, Wayne, Midland, Muskegon, Huron, Saginaw, Tuscola, Sanilac, Lapeer, St. Clair, Livingston Washtenaw, Lenawee, and Monroe.

For updated information visit: weather.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

DTE Retires Two SE Michigan Coal Plants

In another step of DTE Energy’s plan to deliver affordable, clean energy, they have announced the retirement of two more coal plants in Southeast Michigan. 

The decision to retire the two facilities was accomplished without losing or laying-off any of their workforce. Workers employed at either of the two facilities affected will be trained for opportunities elsewhere in the company. The coal plants, located in Trenton and St. Clair had been in operation for nearly a century. 

Under their CleanVision Integrated Resource Plan, DTE has the goal to have net zero carbon emissions by 2050, along with the development of more than 15,000 megawatts of wind and solar energy sources. Jerry Norcia, chairman and CEO of DTE Energy says, “These steps today will lead to a cleaner environment and energy future for Michigan families, communities, and businesses.”

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Practice Snow Shoveling Safety This Winter

With the winter cold, comes the winter snow. For thousands of Americans who live in cold climates, the simple task of shoveling snow can lead to thousands of injuries annually.

For those who don’t have the luxury of a snow removal service, there is the backbreaking task of shoveling our driveways, and sidewalks. To prevent injuries as much as possible while shoveling, follow these simple tips:

  • Stay hydrated.
  • Dress warm, layer up. 
  • Lift with your legs, not your back.
  • Push the snow instead of lifting whenever possible.
  • Take it slow and stretch prior to going out.

The cold and physical exertion can put extra strain on your heart so make sure you take a break if you feel fatigued or chest pains of any sort, and be sure to contact your physician if symptoms persist. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell