October

2026

GLRC Quarterly

Newsletter Issue #61

Red Cedar River, Williamston

GLRC News

Post-Construction Seminar

One of the many ways GLRC communities protect our waters is by implementing programs to reduce pollutants in stormwater runoff from construction activities that disturb one or more acres of land, both during and after construction. Sediments can easily wash down storm drains with rain during construction and pollute our waterways. Best management practices help stormwater infiltrate and filter out pollutants before they reach our lakes, rivers, and streams. GLRC is hosting a free "Improving Water Quality Through Post-Construction Stormwater Control Measures" seminar on Monday, November 23. Visit mywatersheds.org/events to register by November 18.

Green Infrastructure

Post-construction stormwater controls often include green infrastructure, an approach to water management that protects, restores, or mimics the natural water cycle. Did you know you can implement many of these easily on your property? Watch this 30-second video from the GLRC to learn more!

Resources

Be Stormwater Smart

Leaves and yard waste left on the ground are a common source of pollution in our lakes, rivers, and streams. Did you know you can mow several inches of leaves into your lawn? Leaves secured under your bushes and trees, or in your beds or gardens will help your soil retain moisture too.

Leaves and grass clippings also provide the essential "browns" and "greens" needed to make compost. It's also a fantastic way to keep your fruit and vegetable scraps, egg shells, coffee grounds, and tea bags out of the landfill.

Click to learn more

Fall Tree Planting

Fall is a good time to plant trees in Michigan. As they grow, trees absorb and use tremendous amounts of water, moving it through their roots and back into the atmosphere through leaf evapotranspiration. A medium-sized tree can capture 2,380 gallons of rainwater per year. A large oak tree can take in 100 gallons of water per day!

Not only do native trees soak up stormwater and prevent flooding, but they are also great at filtering out pollutants like nitrates, phosphates, heavy metals, pesticides, solvents, and oils. Trees also help cool your home and provide shelter for a variety of wildlife.

Click to learn about urban forestry

Are you Stormwater Smart? Attend a meeting or check out these tips to learn more:

Download:

Download: Protecting

Save the Dates!

October

24

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day

10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Click the button below to find a location near you

Unused prescription drugs discarded in the trash can be recovered and misused or sold illegally, while flushing unused medications down the drain or toilet pollutes water sources. Proper disposal of unused drugs not only prevents misuse but also protects the environment and saves lives. Can't make this date? Many local hospitals and pharmacies take unwanted medication, visit mywatersheds.org/wastedisposal for details.

Learn more

October

24

Autumn Anew Cleanup

10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Rotary Park on the Grand River, 325 Riverfront Dr, Lansing

As the leaves transform our capital city into a vibrant tapestry of colors, Michigan Waterways Stewards invites you to roll up your sleeves and help make Michigan's capital city cleaner, healthier, and a more enjoyable place to live and play! "Autumn Anew - Keep It Beautiful" is a must-attend community-wide event aimed at beautifying our treasured waterways, riverside parks, and adjacent stretches of our prized river trail. We provide everything needed, along with a free picnic lunch, autumn treats, and admission to Potter Park Zoo. There are a limited quantity of kayaks available for FREE for those wanting to steward our waterways.

Learn more

December

9

Michigan Water Environment Association's Watershed & Stormwater Seminar

7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Eagle Eye Golf and Banquet Center, Bath Township, MI

Attending this event will expand your knowledge of watershed management and stormwater practices while providing practical insights you can apply to your work. Expect engaging sessions focused on current challenges, emerging practices, and practical solutions in stormwater and watershed management. You’ll hear from industry experts, exchange ideas with peers, and connect with professionals working to improve water quality and advance sustainable solutions.

Learn more

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