Stay Away: Avoid The Foam Piling Up On Michigan Waters

As summer kicks into high gear in Michigan and people head to the lakes and beaches, health officials are issuing a warning about foam in the water. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) wants to remind everyone to avoid the foam that you might see on lakes, rivers, streams, and beaches all across the state.

Regarding foam forming on waterbodies, officials want to make sure you can tell the difference between safe and potentially dangerous foam. Natural foam, according to MDHHS officials, is usually off-white or brown and has an "earthy or fishy scent." You'll often see it piling up on beaches, in bays, or in spots like eddies and river barriers such as dams. However, sometimes foam can contain harmful chemicals or bacteria, including those sneaky per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). When the foam has PFAS, it's usually bright white, lightweight, and can gather along shores or blow onto beaches. Studies have shown that repeated high exposure to PFAS can cause liver damage, thyroid disease, and other health issues. That's why the MDHHS wants to remind you to rinse off or bathe as soon as possible if you come into contact with any foam.

While the current scientific evidence suggests that the risk of PFAS entering your body through the skin is low, officials still say it's important to rinse off after encountering foam. If you don't, there's a chance you might accidentally swallow the foam or its contents. Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, MDHHS chief medical executive, advises avoiding contact with foam altogether. If you accidentally get in contact with the foam, make sure to rinse it off as soon as possible. In general, it’s a good idea to rinse off after any water activities.

Here's something else to keep in mind. Your furry friends should steer clear of foam too. Animals can end up swallowing foam when they groom themselves and it gets stuck in their fur. If your pets do come into contact with foam, give them a good rinse and bathe them with fresh water. If you have any questions about animals and foam ingestion, don't hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian.

For any questions about exposure to PFAS or foam, call the MDHHS Environmental Health hotline at 800-648-6942. They'll have the answers you're looking for. And for more information, you can always check out the MPART website.

You don’t have to travel far for an island getaway when you live in Michigan. Tucked away in the waters of Michigan’s Great Lakes are some of the most beautiful islands you’ll ever see.

If you're familiar with Michigan or even if you've never set foot in the Great Lakes State, chances are you've heard of Mackinac Island. This tiny 4.35 square mile paradise is home to around 500 residents, but its annual visitors exceed one million. However, Michigan is not limited to just Mackinac Island. If you're itching to discover other islands in the state, we've got a few recommendations for you to explore.

People absolutely love the islands in Michigan, and it's not hard to see why. These islands are simply gorgeous. The natural beauty found there is off the charts. From pristine beaches and lush forests to sparkling waters and stunning views, the scenery is straight out of a postcard. But it's not just about the looks. These islands offer an escape from the daily grind. You can leave behind the honking horns and crowded streets and embrace a more relaxed pace of life. And some of these islands don't even allow cars.

Whether you're into hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, or even off-roading, you'll find your fix here. Of course, you can’t forget the amount of history each island holds. They've witnessed the passage of time, seen settlers come and go, and have their own unique cultures. You can dive into the past by visiting historical sites, checking out museums, or chatting with the locals.

One of the best things about these islands is the chance to have one-of-a-kind experiences. Where you can take a horse-drawn carriage ride like you're in a fairytale. Or spot majestic gray wolves in their natural habitat.

In Michigan, there are islands waiting to be discovered. Here are five islands you should check out.

Isle Royale, one of Michigan's five national parks, attracts around 17,000 visitors annually. This little island nestled in the heart of Lake Superior offers wildlife and outdoor fun. Despite its national park status, it remains uncrowded. In fact, Isle Royale is one of the least-visited national parks in the entire country according to Michigan.org. But that’s due to its lack of accessibility. Most adventurers reach the island by taking a five-hour boat ride from the Upper Peninsula.

Beaver Island, the biggest island in Lake Michigan, is a nature lover's paradise with plenty of activities to enjoy. The year-round population has around 600, and a significant portion of the islanders proudly trace their roots back to Ireland.

Les Cheneaux Islands is a cluster of 36 small islands in Lake Huron, Michigan's Upper Peninsula. These islands are a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The Les Cheneaux Islands are located just a few miles northeast of Michigan’s famed Mackinac Bridge, which connects the state’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas.

Drummond Island, the second largest freshwater island in the United States, is home to 1,058 people. This island stands out for its closed-loop trail system, offering off-road adventures. Drummond Island has a diverse range of ecosystems. With over 13 distinct ecosystems, including six forest types, five swamp-marsh types, inland lakes and rivers, and cobble beaches, the island is a haven for nature enthusiasts seeking to explore the richness and variety of its natural landscapes.

North and South Manitou Islands are two islands situated within an island chain that stretches northward towards the Straits of Mackinac. South Manitou, located approximately 16 miles west of Leland, covers a land area of 8.277 square miles. On the other hand, North Manitou Island lies to the north, about 12 miles from Leland, and has a larger land area of 22.346 square miles.

Located in the international waters of the Detroit River, Belle Isle Park is a 982-acre island park known as the "Jewel of Detroit." With its stunning natural landscapes and historic landmarks like the Belle Isle Aquarium and Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, it offers a perfect urban oasis and cultural retreat for visitors to enjoy.