The middle reach of the Huron River in southeastern lower Michigan (Washtenaw and Wayne counties) has been the site of a research study sponsored by the U.S. EPA (2003-2006) and also by the USDA since 2006. The study led by Professor John Lehman of the University of Michigan probes the causes and possible corrective measures for the nuisance algal blooms that plague Ford and Belleville lakes and which threaten Barton Pond, a drinking water supply. The research developed a management plan based on theory that will now be tested through whole lake experiments from 2006 to 2009.
The study is highly relevant to local, regional, and State efforts that have been trying for years to improve water quality in this watershed. In December 2005, the Township governing board responsible for Ford Lake voted to permit U-M scientists to perform large scale experiments including selective discharge of water and injection of oxygen in order to test predictions that such practices could favorably alter chemical and biological conditions within the lake ecosystem.
This website chronicles the historical development of the project, archives the research data, and provides updates and reports of progress on a regular basis.
last updated 27 January 2008
Site design by D. Lehman