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Dear John,

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ new June forecast paints a chilling picture ([link removed]) of super-high water levels in Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, peaking in July and August even higher than the May forecast. Higher water levels than any time since the disastrous “Great Flood of 1986.” And look out – especially if the high water is whipped up by gusty winds and waves. This is both a climate change story and an economic one as the flooding attacks our homes, businesses and the places where we live, work and play. We need to mitigate climate change, which Midwest scientists conclude ([link removed]) is exacerbating extreme weather events including more intense rainstorms.
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What should we do now?

Prepare now to better protect people, public health and communities! Flooding is coming, and that reality is understandably lost in the overwhelming COVID-19 public health crisis.

Map the site-specific flooding risks and threats. We need to focus on risks such as industrial and storage facilities with hazardous and toxic materials along the shoreline as water levels rise. Check out ELPC's map ([link removed]) assessing these risks.

Develop solutions for the shoreline’s built environment by modernizing land use and zoning laws as well as environmental engineering approaches to adapt to the new mostly higher water level realities. Let’s assess ways of using natural systems (e.g., wetlands restoration) and policy changes to help adapt.

This rethinking will require land-use planning, zoning, science, environmental engineering, hydrology and creativity. ELPC is working with partners and public officials who bring other solution tools to the table. We’re going to need to put all the tools to work.
Best wishes, stay healthy, and be well,
Howard A. Learner
Executive Director
Environmental Law & Policy Center


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