Lake Michigan Water Program

About this grant

The Illinois Environmental Council Education Fund is the state’s most vibrant coalition of environmental advocacy affiliate organizations. The grantee leads coalition building, education and outreach efforts in support of efforts to better protect Lake Michigan and resources within Illinois. With prior support from the Foundation, the grantee has elevated statewide awareness of the need to invest in upgrading Illinois’ aging water infrastructure, much of which in the Great Lakes basin is burdened with lead. The grantee has embarked on an initiative to reduce pollution from plastic waste which is of particular importance in the Great Lakes basin. With renewed support, the Illinois Environmental Council Education Fund will create conditions to support investment in Illinois’ crumbling water infrastructure, address plastic pollution and help forge a new state water plan, all while seeking to ensure that clean, safe and affordable drinking water is accessible across the state including population centers in the Great Lakes basin.