Sustainability

Ana Dyreson

The snowy U.P.: Ideal for testing solar panels

Conventional wisdom says extremely snowy climates aren't ideal for alternative energy sources such as solar panels. No one really knows how much snow impacts solar power systems or what to do about it. Those are questions Ana Dyreson, an assistant professor at Michigan Technological University, is looking to answer.

Latest in Sustainability
The Highway 2 Community Drive-in Theater is the last drive-in theater in the Upper Peninsula.
Community rallies to keep nostalgic Manistique drive-in open

The Highway 2 Community Drive-In Theater is the last drive-in theater in the Upper Peninsula and among the few remaining in Michigan. The theater is run by a nonprofit organization and is open only for special movie events and community programs. 

A new bridge connecting Black River Harbor and Black River Campground being installed in September 2022.
Infrastructure improvements bolster Black River

“Superior Watershed Partnership has been partnering with the Ottawa (National Forest) for eight years. We are grateful to be able to provide a lot of people with their first job connecting with environmental restoration. They can take this experience and knowledge with them over their careers,” says Tyler Penrod, program manager for the Great Lakes Climate Corps.

Students participate in the LIFT-UP program.
Students help ensure farm sustainability and bring local food to cafeterias in UP program

The LIFT-UP program gives students a pivotal role in identifying and addressing barriers to expanding local produce in school cafeterias.

Nisu Bakery & Cafe brings Finnish flair to Hancock

The owner of Nisu Bakery & Cafe in Hancock has a long connection to the U.P., even though she only recently moved to the region. Proud of her heritage, her shop will sell Finnish and Swedish baked goods and gifts. 

As flooding happens more often, plans emerge to put Nature to work in handling the overflow

Across the Great Lakes basin scientists and planners are pivoting to re-examine alternative drainage systems and to address barriers — including obsolete data — that may stand in the way of innovative, sustainable green designs that could help alleviate flooding.

Calumet wins Governor’s Award for Historic Preservation

Recognitions and grants from the state of Michigan will help preservation efforts in downtown Calumet.

The Chippewa is poised to become the first electric passenger ferry in Michigan.
Going green: Mackinac Island Ferry Company commits to Green Marine initiative

The Mackinac Island Ferry Company made a splash earlier this year with plans to develop the first electric passenger ferry in Michigan. Now, the ferry company is bolstering its green efforts even more. 

Visit Keweenaw pushes responsible recreation

Visit Keweenaw ramps up its efforts to protect the stunning landscape of the peninsula with a series of videos aimed at educating visitors about how to enjoy the outdoors and also be respectful. 

On tap: annual Michigan Rural Health Conference

The Michigan Center for Rural Health holds its annual conference next week in Mount Pleasant. The two-day conference brings those working in rural health together to discuss a variety of issues in rural health, network and collaborate.

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