Our Work
Here’s some of the work we’re doing to ensure a healthy environment, strong economy and high quality of life for current and future generations.
Thank you for joining us in Toronto!
Thank you to all who joined us in Toronto for the 2026 Great Lakes Commission Annual Meeting, held October 6-8 in Toronto, Ontario. Learn more here!
2025 Great Lakes Commission Annual Report
The 2025 Great Lakes Commission Annual Report is now available online! The GLC’s Annual Report includes highlights and key accomplishments under Chair Mary Mertz of Ohio, Chair Timothy J. Bruno of Pennsylvania (elected October 2025) and Executive Director Erika Jensen. View the report here.
2026 GLC Federal Priorities for the Great Lakes
The GLC released its 2026 agenda for the Great Lakes, calling for continued strategic investment in the lakes, which hold 95% of America’s fresh surface water and provide drinking water for more than 47 million people. Read our priorities and download state-specific fact sheets here.
Great Lakes Investment Tracker
The Great Lakes Investment Tracker is an interactive mapping application developed by the GLC to showcase federally-funded projects in Great Lakes states. Visit the tracker to learn more about investments in the region.
8th Annual AIS Landing Blitz
Organizations across the region came together to educate the public about aquatic invasive species (AIS) for the eighth annual Great Lakes AIS Landing Blitz, June 29 through July 12, 2026. Read more about the Landing Blitz here.
Supporting sediment management efforts
The Great Lakes Commission is launching a new project to explore the management of sediment in the Great Lakes, and the role it plays in restoration, coastal resilience, and maritime transportation. Read more about the new project here.
Ontario investing $1.8 million in community projects to protect the Great Lakes
Ontario is investing up to $1.8 million through its Great Lakes Local Action Fund to support community-led projects that improve water quality, restore wetlands and habitats, reduce pollution, and strengthen the resilience of Great Lakes ecosystems. Read the full...
Oswego looks at financing options for Lake Michigan water project work
Oswego, Illinois, is exploring alternative financing options for its Lake Michigan water project amid uncertainty over the timing of a planned federal loan, which could be delayed by the government shutdown. The roughly $150 million project, part of a regional effort...
US wildlife partners spent years protecting more than 1,700 acres along Wisconsin’s Lake Superior shore
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Landmark Conservancy partnered to protect more than 1,700 acres along Wisconsin’s Lake Superior shoreline, preserving forests, wetlands and streams that support brook trout, migratory birds and other wildlife. Read the full story...
The Advisor E-Newsletter: September 2026
The September 2026 edition of the Commission’s e-newsletter, The Advisor, includes a reminder to register for the 2026 GLC Annual Meeting, information about recent bipartisan Great Lakes legislation, project updates and more.
2025 Great Lakes Commission Annual Report
The 2025 Great Lakes Commission Annual Report includes highlights and key accomplishments from the year under the leadership of Chair Mary Mertz, Chair Timothy J. Bruno (elected October 2025), and Executive Director Erika Jensen.
GLC and National Sea Grant Law Center launch new database to help prevent online sales of invasive species
Ann Arbor, Mich. – The Great Lakes Commission (GLC) has launched a new online resource that allows users to quickly check state and federal regulations before buying or selling aquatic plants and animals online, helping ensure compliance with applicable laws while...
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GREAT LAKES EVENTS
For more events, visit the
Great Lakes Calendar
Great Lakes Coastal Symposium
October 26 - October 28National Beach Summit
October 27 - October 30NALMS 2026 Annual Symposium
November 2 - November 6