Environmental Safety

Michigan Residents can obtain free well water testing through the Private Residential Water Well Testing Program. Bacteria, heavy metals, and other contaminants can be detected with testing. Click below to learn more.

Before removing poison hemlock, poison ivy, and other noxious plants that may be growing on your property learn about the risks first. The Michigan State University Gardening in Michigan Extension can help. Click the link to ask an expert or to find more information from the experts at MSU.

HAB’s or Harmful Algae Blooms occur in waterways throughout the nation. The most common blooms in Michigan waterways are blue-green algae. Learn how to detect and avoid HAB’s to help keep family and pets safe and well this season.

Poison Hemlock can be dangerous to handle. It looks like weeds that grow throughout the state of Michigan. Mowing or cutting this plant can result in serious health risks. Contact local experts for removal when possible. Learn more from the MSU Agriculture Extension.

Some of the most poisonous plants found outdoors in our state are invasive species. These plants are known to cause risks to health and should be avoided by humans and animals. Learn more about these invasive, poisonous plants and know what to do if you cannot avoid them.

The Great Lakes face threats including invasive species, urban and rural runoff, historical as well as new sources of contamination, and changes in climate. You can help protect our Great Lakes and all of Michigan’s rivers, lakes and streams and even groundwater! Become a water steward and Great Lakes champion!

Control of hazardous wastes in Michigan is accomplished through a set of interrelated actions. These include managing the generation, treatment, storage and disposal of hazardous wastes, licensing and regulating hazardous and liquid industrial by-products (formerly liquid industrial waste) transportation, and informing individuals of the opportunities for proper disposal of hazardous and harmful wastes generated in the home.

Risks for carbon monoxide exposure can occur all year long. Carbon monoxide is found in the exhaust from cars and boats. One boat engine can produce the same amount of carbon monoxide as 180 cars.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has updated the Eat Safe Fish program. New guidelines for comsuming fish from regions and waterways throughout the state of Michigan are outlined in this latest release.

Using pesticides safely depends on many things. Some of the most important factors include selecting the appropriate product, and using that product according to the label directions. The label directions are written to minimize the risk of problems and to define the legal uses for the product.

Foraging for mushrooms in Michigan is a fun and educational outdoor activity. There are many edible mushrooms and others that should never be consumed. Edible mushrooms may only be safe to eat if prepared the right way. Click below to learn moare about safe foraging and mushroom consumption in this Q & A.

Morel mushrooms are a favorite variety for many mushroom hunters. Not all are safe to eat and those that are safe to eat should be prepared correctly to avoid health risks. Click below to learn more about the morel mushroom and links to other resources.

Outdoor skills, education, and recreational safety programs provide opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to develop their outdoor skills and knowledge of Michigan's natural resources, and to promote safe, responsible and ethical use of the outdoors.

The Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy department (EGLE), and Michign Department of Health and Humans Services partner to provide this Harmful Algal Bloom (HABs) map to help the public avoid exposure to cyanobacteria in effected bodies of water in our state.

Poison ivy is one of the most abundant poisonous plants found in Michigan. Before heading outdoors and into the woods take time to prepare and avoid contact with poison ivy and other invasive plant species.