Call for Applications: 2027 Great Lakes Local Action Fund
The Province of Ontario is accepting applications for community projects that protect, conserve, or restore the environment and waters of the Great Lakes. Projects must focus on nature-based outcomes, community innovation, and/or economic resilience. Applications close on November 6, 2026 at 5:00 pm ET. Visit the Great Lakes Local Action Fund web page to learn more about eligible projects and how to apply, or RSVP for the informational webinar on October 19, 2026 at 1 pm ET.
Algal Blooms on the Rise in Even our Coldest Great Lake
Scientists and resource managers from the U.S. and Canada released a report calling for immediate actions to address harmful algal blooms on Lake Superior. Since 2012, Lake Superior has had an increasing number of harmful algal blooms. This year alone, seven blooms were recorded in the inner harbor and St. Louis River estuary in Duluth-Superior. Harmful algal blooms are toxic to humans and pets and can make drinking water unsafe if it enters the water supply. The report recommends eight actions to help stop future blooms, including more funding to monitor harmful algal blooms, invest in buoys that can provide water quality data, as well as develop forecasting and alert systems.
Freshwater Future Staff Attend Healing Our Waters Conference
Last week, Freshwater Future staff attended the Healing Our Waters Conference in Detroit, Michigan. We enjoyed reconnecting with many of our community partners, building new relationships, and learning about important Great Lakes issues.
Upcoming Deadline: Support Federal Wetlands & Streams Protections
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency proposed another regulation that further guts the Clean Water Act and its critical streams and wetlands protections. This “supplemental” proposal would eliminate federal protections for most streams that do not flow year-round and wetlands. Without strong wetland protections, we risk losing the many benefits wetlands provide, such as preventing flooding, filtering pollutants from runoff, and habitat for fish and wildlife. Please join Freshwater Future to stand up for our freshwater resources. Public comment is open until Friday, October 9th, 2026 – send a personalized comment to the U.S. EPA today!
Canada Water Agency Requests Feedback on National Freshwater Strategy
The Canada Water Agency is developing its first National Water Security Strategy and requesting input from residents. Please share your input to inform what the strategy should include. Freshwater Future developed suggestions that reflect long-term freshwater visions and priorities. The survey closes October 25, 2026. See our full talking points here.
Upcoming Events
Year-End Fundraising
For many organizations, the last two months of the year are an effective time frame to fundraise. Join Freshwater Future on October 13th, at 12:00 pm ET, to learn simple ways to do end-of-year fundraising so you can boost your important water work. This online session will give you practical tips and tools to ask your supporters for donations. Register for this practical webinar today!
Relax with Mindfulness and Movement
Working to protect water is demanding. Join us for our Mindfulness & Movement session, a 45-minute guided session with Jonathan Relucio, to relax and restore. All sessions start at 10:30 am CT / 11:30 am ET.
