Each spring biologists from the NOAA Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL) head out to the beaches along Lake Michigan to check in on juvenile lake whitefish. This popular, mild-tasting native species is the most popular commercial fish in the … Continue reading →

GLANSIS Database Keeps Tabs on Biological Invaders The Great Lakes are one of the most unique freshwater ecosystems in the world – but are also heavily threatened by biological invaders. Aquatic invasive and nuisance species are the plants and animals … Continue reading →

After more than 40 years of civil service, Deborah Lee, NOAA Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL) director, is retiring on February 28, 2025. Known for her passion for managing our nation’s water resources, Lee has been a dedicated and … Continue reading →

Happy Valentine’s Day from NOAA’s Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory! Here’s a look at the Great Lakes science that inspired our GLERL-themed valentines. Lake Erie’s central basin is a vital drinking water source for over two million people along the … Continue reading →

As we settle into winter in the Great Lakes region, many people are looking to NOAA’s Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory for information about the 2025 ice season. Here are some common questions about this year’s ice and our ice … Continue reading →

December is just around the corner, and many residents of the Great Lakes region have questions surrounding water levels on the lakes and the upcoming winter season. Here are some common questions about lake levels, water temperatures, winter outlooks, and … Continue reading →

On October 25th, NOAA GLERL Director Deborah Lee received The Ohio State University’s Distinguished Alumni Award for Career Achievement! This award recognizes alumni for significant achievement in business or institutional leadership and professional accomplishments.  Over Deborah Lee’s 39-year career with … Continue reading →

Throughout 2024, NOAA’s Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL) is celebrating 50 years of science in service to society in the Great Lakes. Our new 50th Anniversary video highlights how GLERL has played a critical role in understanding and protecting … Continue reading →

People love the expansive shorelines of the Great Lakes, and will often hit the beach on a warm summer afternoon to swim, play and cool off.  But scientists have recently discovered that meteotsunamis – waves caused by sudden atmospheric pressure … Continue reading →