Students for Water Quality and Accessibilty

  Humanity’s knowledge and awareness concerning freshwater quality are two powerful factors in determining the future of this natural resource. Freshwater is vital in perpetuating life on earth, and its accessibility, sustainability, and condition will inevitably become a topic of political conversation in the near future. The founders of Students for Water Quality and Accessibility implore the public to prepare itself to defend freshwater resources sensibly, which begins with factual freshwater education – what our authors are willing and working hard to supply.We are working toward a future in which each individual on earth has access to clean freshwater resources, to be used conscientiously. When humanity unites to resist the privatization and poor treatment of freshwater bodies worldwide, change will initiate.  

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A firebelly toad catching his dinner in a shoreline freshwater vivarium. Yum!

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Ludington State Park is home to my favorite trails in lower Michigan. No matter the time of year you choose to explore its contents, the park abounds with marvels of nature; in the winter, frigid temperatures and lake affect snowfall encase the Big Sable Point Lighthouse in glistening ice. Throughout the spring, hikers that venture across the dunes are be met by colorful freshwater pools that are the result of a saturated water table. During the summer months, vacationers may slide down the dunes and leap into the deep blues of Lake Michigan, Hamlin Lake, or Lost Lake to escape the scorching heat. The fall brings a beautiful change of color and pace to the park, as deciduous forests flash a spectrum of gold-maroon for the few, quiet spectators.

It is within this natural preserve that I was lucky enough to spot a porcupine high in an evergreen tree, and to witness a beaver, sopping wet, emerge from the Sable River. To see an adult Blue Racer curl and recede into the undergrowth as my dog and I passed him on the trail.

The wild is not mankind’s for the taking. Nature centers, National Forests, Public Lands, Metro, State and National Parks… these sanctuaries allow people of all ages, races, genders, religions and backgrounds to reconnect with nature. It is disheartening to think that there are people in this world that seek to mistreat and sicken our planet Earth and oppress its living creatures. I have often wondered if these people have ever sought refuge from the trials of everyday life by simply walking into the woods. Have they not felt the same tranquility and wonder that I have when admiring nature?

Although at times it is hard for me to comprehend why some individuals wish to see the wild devastated, I must remind myself that there is always hope. It is in mankind’s nature to be selfish, but our hearts also hold the impression of a strong connection to the wild. In some cases, the spark was never stoked, and people need teachers – friends – that help them find their place and feel safe outdoors. But we all have the same biological origin story, and may be influenced by immersing ourselves in our environment to realize the compassion for and defense of the woodlands, savannahs and lakes we possess. They bore us and deserve our utmost protection and care.

I never want to see my beloved Ludington State Park – or Earth – exploited by humans that shirk their benevolent nature and instead ravage the wilds. I implore you, readers, to vow to protect the lands you cherish, and always encourage others to follow you as you tread lightly.

Discovering a Home in the Wild Ludington State Park is home to my favorite trails in lower Michigan. No matter the time of year you choose to explore its contents, the park abounds with marvels of nature; in the winter, frigid temperatures and lake affect snowfall encase the Big Sable Point Lighthouse in glistening ice.

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Adaptations of the American Goldfinch

Adaptations of the American Goldfinch

Carduelis tristis– the American goldfinch – is observable throughout Michigan, and zoological studies on these birds have provided us vital background information on their migratory patterns, taxonomy, mating behavior, niche occupied, dietary needs and the distinguishable features of this bird’s appearance. “Background information’ is stated because researchers are continually monitoring how…

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Who else managed to jump in the lake one last time before the cold weather moves in?

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Northern Michigan water snake, spotted at Highland Recreation Area. Fun fact: this species of water snake is not venomous. The only species of snake in Michigan that could poison you if it were to bite is called the Massasauga rattlesnake.

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Peering into tide pools at Acadia National Park.

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You never know what you’ll discover when visiting your local nature center! Get out there and explore 🍀

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Momo Bleu on one of her many outdoor adventures.

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Our mascot/puppy! She loves immersing herself in nature - especially when that involves swimming!

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Throwback to the March for Science in Lansing, MI.

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Frogs are vital indicator species that scientists study when monitoring the health of a freshwater system. This is because frogs utilize cutaneous respiration while submerged, and during hibernation, and are therefore directly impacted by toxins in a watershed. In tracking both the species diversity and abundance of frogs in an ecosystem, scientists may draw conclusions about what pollutants are active in the environment and implement solutions to clean up the problem before other organisms suffer.

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Adventures along the Oregon coast, and through Crater Lake National Park. **Photo credit: Lisa Bizon-Carroll and Dave Carroll**

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We LOVE playing in the water! One great way to ensure that freshwater resources are healthy and safe for drinking and recreational usage is to get involved in their maintenance. Do some research and find out which watershed your property is part of, and if it struggles with problems like pollution, eutrophication, or lack of species diversity. Next, volunteer your time with a non-profit that monitors this ecosystem's health, or personally take steps to reduce your footprint (simply by using fertilizers with less phosphorus and nitrogen, or halting the spraying of pesticides on your lawn for an eco-friendly alternative). YOU CAN make a difference!

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Highland State Recreation Area, lower Michigan

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Invasive Species Spotlight: Asian Carp and the Great Lakes

Invasive Species Spotlight: Asian Carp and the Great Lakes

First introduced to North America in 1975, Southeast Asia’s bighead, grass, silver and black carp species were utilized by Arkansas fish farmers as a natural filter for their aquatic operations. At present, these carp have spread through floodwater, dams, and natural freshwater stream and river systems to occupy more than 20 states, and have proven to be voracious consumers and resilient…

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The Grand River, Lansing riverwalk.

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Author Emily's dog, Momo Bleu, enjoying the spring and summer months on the beach. From left to right - on the shore of Lake Superior, and Union Lake. Keep fresh and saltwater resources pollution-free for the health of all living creatures ❤️

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Upper falls, Tahquamenon Falls State Park.