There is only One Water, and it’s ours to protect

Water is vital to Southeast Michigan’s environment, economy, and public health. As part of the Great Lakes system, our region is home to an abundance of freshwater that supplies clean, reliable drinking water to millions. Our rivers, lakes, and wetlands not only support diverse ecosystems, but also play a crucial role in managing stormwater and reducing flood risks. In the face of increasing extreme rain events, protecting water quality and investing in resilient infrastructure is more important than ever.

SEMCOG is now celebrating Great Lakes and Fresh Water Week (May 31-June 8) alongside Southeast Michigan’s annual One Water campaign, a regional effort to promote stewardship, education, and recreation around our abundant water resources. This year, SEMCOG has partnered with local communities and watershed councils to distribute over 28,000 water quality education items across the region. The campaign highlights the shared responsibility to protect and enhance our water systems, encouraging everyday actions that support clean water and resilient infrastructure.

In addition to its member communities, SEMCOG has partnered with Southeast Michigan watershed organizations to distribute water quality materials designed to support each council’s educational and stewardship goals. These partners, deeply connected to the communities they serve, play a key role in educating and empowering residents as stewards of our water resources.

“In Southeast Michigan, we’re united by a shared understanding that there is One Water-connecting every lake, stream, pipe, and person,” SEMCOG Executive Director, Amy O’Leary said. “Through this campaign, and in partnership with local governments and community groups, we’re turning that understanding into action. Collective action helps protect the water systems we all depend on-for our health, environment, and economy.”

Government/Community Partners

Great Lakes Water Authority

“Our partnership with SEMCOG reflects a shared commitment to education and regional collaboration.” Chief Executive Officer Suzanne Coffey said. “Since the launch of the One Water campaign in 2019, we have worked together to help residents better understand how stormwater, drinking water, and wastewater are interconnected. Strengthening this understanding is key to protecting Southeast Michigan’s water resources now and into the future.”

Oakland County

“Oakland County is home to over 1,400 lakes and a vast network of rivers and streams. At the Oakland County Water Resource Commissioner’ s Office, we are dedicated to providing valuable resources and education to property owners and residents to help protect water quality-both locally and regionally,” Oakland County Water Resource Commissioner (WRC) Environmental Planner, Jacy Garrison said. “By working with SEMCOG on the One Water campaign, we are empowering the community to take action, such as reducing pet waste runoff, to protect the water we all rely on.”

City of New Baltimore

“We’ve been proud to participate in the One Water campaign in previous years, and we’re excited to continue offering materials that our residents find useful,” said Thomas Semann, Mayor, City of New Baltimore, said. “It’s been rewarding to see the positive impact these resources have had, and we look forward to providing more opportunities for our community to engage with sustainable practices while enjoying the outdoors.”

City of Pontiac

“As residents look forward to warmer weather, the City of Pontiac continues to find ways to engage our community in caring for the environment,” said Lisa Campbell, Director of Pontiac’s Grants and Philanthropy Department. “The One Water campaign aligns with our efforts to promote sustainability, and we’re excited to offer these helpful materials to our residents.”

St. Clair County

“The St. Clair River is a crucial part of one of the largest freshwater reserves in the world, protecting it is our responsibility. One Water is a great effort to illustrate how your individual actions can make a difference,” St. Clair County Planning Director Lindsay Wallace said.

Regional Watershed Councils Connect with Communities defined by Shared Waterways

Friends of the Detroit River

“Over four hundred students from the Downriver area came together at the Spring Detroit River Water Festival on May 6 and 7, to learn about the importance of clean, fresh water,” said McKenzi Waliczek, Friends of the Detroit River Stewardship Director. “This free event offered hands-on activities, led by academic instructors and water quality professionals, to help students explore key water-related topics, such as erosion, the hydrologic cycle, and the economic and social impact of water. Through our partnership with SEMCOG, we are deepening students’ appreciation for the Detroit River and inspiring them to take an active role in water stewardship.”

Huron River Watershed Council

“The Huron River Watershed Council has a long history of protecting clean water through science, advocacy and community action. As part of our ongoing education efforts, we’re proud to partner with SEMCOG on the One Water campaign to distribute pet waste bags and raise awareness about stormwater pollution and its impact on our rivers,” Huron River Watershed Council Executive Director Rebecca Esselman said. “Pet waste is one of the most common sources of E.coli in the Huron River. When it rains, bacteria from pet waste can wash directly into storm drains and drainage ditches and eventually into our waterways, untreated. Picking up pet waste and disposing of it in the trash protects water quality, keeping our water resources safe for drinking and swimming.”

Clinton River Watershed Council

“Clinton River Watershed Council (CRWC) is excited to partner with SEMCOG on One Water,” CRWC Education and Stewardship Manager Kaleigh Snoddy said. “This year, CRWC efforts included distributing Fat, Oil, and Grease (FOG) disposal bags, which protect our shared wastewater system. Tools like these help engage residents, schools, businesses and local governments in vital water stewardship practices. By working together, we’re empowering our community to protect, enhance, and celebrate our water resources.”

While Great Lakes and Freshwater Week takes place in June, there are opportunities all year long to volunteer and help protect our region’s freshwater resources. Use the map below to find your watershed and explore ways to get involved through your local watershed organization.

Updated One Water Messaging

SEMCOG has released our media toolkit – including updating One Water tip cards and graphics. Below are a few examples of our revised tip cards. For more information, visit the One Water Resources page.

Building a resilient water system begins with education – and that’s the heart of the One Water Campaign. From the start, One Water has promoted a holistic understanding of our water resources and a shared responsibility for protecting both our natural waterways and built infrastructure. Thanks to the collaboration of Southeast Michigan’s One Water partners, including SEMCOG, member communities, the Great Lakes Water Authority, local watershed groups, and others, this year’s campaign was another successful effort in advancing water quality during Great Lakes and Fresh Water Week.

There is only One Water, and it’s ours to protect.