Calling All Lake Erie Lovers!
Do you have five minutes to fill out our survey? We are looking for reflections on the small but mighty: Lake Erie. The annual #WeAreLakeErie celebration and campaign will take place officially on August 14, 2026 but we’ll be highlighting stories all month. We look forward to sharing your stories, your words and your meaningful thought pieces about Lake Erie. You can share your stories using this link here for a chance to be featured on Freshwater Future’s media outlets!
Indiana Seeks Coal Ash Oversight as Federal Rules are Rolled Back
Indiana residents and its waters are burdened with the most coal ash disposal sites in the nation with over 100 sites. Now state regulators want to take control over management of these highly toxic sites. It may lead to increased coal ash pollution since the federal regulations are currently being rolled back and Indiana law says its rules can’t be stricter than federal rules. Because of all of these changes happening at once, it may be hard for community members to understand which regulations and permit conditions are in effect for a while. If the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) accepts Indiana’s application, then the public will have an opportunity to provide comments. Freshwater Future will keep you updated on this issue.
Thank You for Taking Action on Canada’s Major Projects
Thank you all who sent messages to federal leaders, opposing their plans to fast-track major infrastructure projects at the expense of our waters and communities. The “Major Projects” proposals would cut out public input, transparency, and environmental protections in favour of approving oil pipelines, mining, and data centres in less than a year.
The Assembly of First Nations Chiefs, too, unanimously voted last week to oppose the proposals. National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak pointed out the double standard: “The federal government can try and set up all the timelines that they want for project approvals, but they can’t put a deadline on First Nations rights.” As Freshwater Future highlighted last week, the Canadian federal government is backtracking support for First Nations’ right to water in both the courts and in a proposed drinking water bill.
Upcoming Events: Save Your Spot!
Public Charities Can Lobby: How Your 501(c)(3) Can Influence Policy for the Greater Good.
Tuesday, August 18, 12:00 pm ET
Freshwater Future’s partner, Alliance for Justice, will lead our next monthly session focused on nonprofit lobbying “Do’s and Don’ts”. After this workshop, you will have a clear understanding of what advocacy activities your 501(c)(3) can engage in, what communications count as lobbying, and how to maximize your non-lobbying advocacy. Please note that this session will not be recorded. Register here!
Relax with Mindfulness and Movement
All are invited to this free, 45-minute guided session with Jonathan Relucio, an expert with over 20 years of experience. Join us to relax and restore each month, and please invite others! Can’t join? Registrants can access past session recordings here – contact alana@freshwaterfuture.org for the password.
Wednesday, August 19, 11:30 am (Eastern) Register here!
Wednesday, September 16, 11:30 am (Eastern) Register here!
