St. Marys River bouncing back from history of pollution, say Michigan officials

NEWS RELEASE

MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

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Office of the Great Lakes announces further progress in binational river's recovery

Significant progress in the ecological recovery of the St. Marys River was announced today by the Michigan Office of the Great Lakes.

Located in the Upper Peninsula’s Chippewa County, the St. Marys River was designated as a Great Lakes Area of Concern (AOC) in 1987 due to environmental degradation from industrial and municipal pollution on both sides of the river.

AOCs are defined by Beneficial Use Impairments – specific environmental problems that must be addressed to accomplish recovery.

On December 8, 2016, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency confirmed the removal of the “Eutrophication or Undesirable Algae BUI.”

Field studies show an absence of nuisance algal mats, and nutrient levels (which contribute to algal growth) have remained below recommended guidelines. Wastewater infrastructure upgrades in the twin cities of Sault Ste. Marie Ontario and Michigan have contributed to the health of the river by reducing nutrient inputs.

“This announcement marks the 42nd BUI Removal across Michigan’s 14 AOCs, a testament to the work of federal, state, and local partners leading in stewardship of our Great Lakes resources,” said Office of the Great Lakes Director Jon W. Allan.

Discover how Office of the Great Lakes AOC Program staff work with partners to restore Michigan’s Areas of Concern at www.michigan.gov/deqaocprogram.

The MDEQ is dedicated to respect for Michigan’s citizens, stewardship of the environment, and support for a sustainable economy.

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