Introduction Climate Projections Agriculture Forests & Wildlife Human Health Lakes, Streams, & Fish Property and Infrastructure Recreation & Tourism Water Supply & Pollution Wetlands & Shorebirds Climate Solutions Resources & Links

Introduction
From the reaches of the Upper Peninsula to the shores of Lake Erie, Michigan is defined by the Great Lakes. This bounty of water and its effect on the climate of the region have long shaped the rich and diverse ecosystems throughout the state. Michigan has beautiful beaches for swimming, bountiful northern forests for bird watching, and rich soils for agriculture. These ecosystems continue to play a significant role in Michigan’s vibrant economy.

It is precisely these ecosystems and natural resources that are at risk from climate change. This change is largely driven by human activities, primarily the burning of fossil fuels to produce electricity and drive our cars, which in turn emits gases—principally carbon dioxide—that blanket the planet and trap heat. The resulting fundamental change in the Earth's atmosphere and climate is affecting people and the environment in the Great Lakes region.

In the Michigan section of this web feature, we explore what a changing climate could mean for the state. Specifically, we examine how climate is projected to change in Michigan; how these changes may impact human health, agriculture, forests and wildlife, water supplies, property and infrastructure, aquatic ecosystems, as well as tourism and recreation; and how Michigan residents can help reduce these potential impacts by pursuing several solutions strategies.

After you’ve learned about the threats that a changing climate pose to Michigan, please take a couple of minutes to tell policymakers to begin tackling the problem. This is easy to do on our action pages.