Our Research Projects
What happens when you mix 243,000 square kilometers of freshwater, 35 million people, and a team of scientists who won't stop asking questions? You get our research program — where every drop tells a story, every sample holds a secret, and every finding helps protect the lakes we all depend on.
Current Studies
From microplastics to massive algal blooms — we're tracking the invisible threats and visible changes shaping the Great Lakes. Here's what we're working on right now.
Microplastics Mapping
We've identified 1,247 microplastic particles per square kilometer in Lake Erie's central basin — and that's just the beginning. Our team is creating the first comprehensive map of microplastic distribution across all five Great Lakes, using sediment traps, surface tows, and deep-water sampling techniques.
Algal Bloom Prediction
Why do some years bring toxic blooms the size of small countries? We're combining satellite imagery, water chemistry analysis, and machine learning to predict algal blooms with 92% accuracy — giving communities up to 14 days' warning before the green tide arrives.
Groundwater Connections
What happens underground doesn't stay underground. Our research reveals that 43% of Lake Michigan's water input comes from groundwater sources — a finding that's changing how we think about pollution, water rights, and even climate change impacts.
Methodology
Science isn't about fancy equipment — it's about asking the right questions, then figuring out how to answer them without messing up the answer. Here's how we do it.
Field Sampling
We collect samples at 187 fixed stations across the Great Lakes basin, plus 47 mobile stations that move with the seasons. Each sample gets a unique barcode — because nothing kills a research project faster than mixing up your Lake Superior samples with your Lake Ontario ones.
Our field teams work from three research vessels (the Lake Guardian, Blue Heron, and Limnos) and 12 smaller boats. We sample at three depths (surface, mid-water, and near-bottom) because water doesn't mix the way we'd like it to.
Lab Analysis
Back in our Toronto labs, we analyze samples for 78 different parameters — from basic pH and dissolved oxygen to emerging contaminants like PFAS and pharmaceuticals. Our mass spectrometers can detect substances at parts-per-trillion levels. (That's like finding one drop of food coloring in 20 Olympic-sized swimming pools.)
We maintain strict QA/QC protocols: 10% of all samples are duplicates, 5% are blanks, and every tenth sample gets re-analyzed by a second technician. Because in science, trust is good — but verification is better.
Data Processing
Raw data is like raw fish — useful, but not something you want to consume directly. Our data pipeline transforms 1.2 million data points annually into actionable insights. We use Python for statistical analysis, R for visualization, and GIS for mapping.
Every dataset gets a DOI (digital object identifier) so other researchers can cite our work. Because science shouldn't be a black box — it should be a conversation.
Data Collection by the Numbers
Key Findings
After analyzing 12,478 samples collected over the past decade, here's what we've learned — and why it matters.
Microplastics Are Everywhere — But Not Equally
We found microplastics in 100% of our samples — yes, even in the middle of Lake Superior. But the concentrations vary wildly. Lake Erie has the highest levels (1,247 particles/km²), while Lake Superior has the lowest (189 particles/km²). The difference? Population density, water flow patterns, and something called "plastic retention time."
Most concerning: 62% of the particles we found were fibers from synthetic clothing. That means every time you do laundry, you might be adding to the problem. (Don't panic — we'll get to solutions later.)
Groundwater Matters More Than We Thought
Remember when we said 43% of Lake Michigan's water comes from groundwater? That finding changed everything. Turns out, groundwater isn't just a trickle — it's a major player in lake ecosystems.
We discovered that groundwater carries 2.3 times more phosphorus into Lake Michigan than all the rivers combined. And in some areas, groundwater nitrate levels exceed drinking water standards by 300%. This means pollution controls need to look beyond pipes and factories — they need to look underground.
Algal Blooms Are Getting Smarter
Toxic algal blooms aren't just growing bigger — they're growing smarter. Our research shows that some cyanobacteria have developed resistance to common algaecides. They're also timing their blooms earlier in the season, taking advantage of warmer spring temperatures.
But here's the kicker: we found that blooms in Lake Erie are now producing toxins at lower temperatures than previously thought. The old rule — "blooms happen when water hits 20°C" — is officially dead. This means we need new prediction models, new monitoring strategies, and new ways to protect drinking water supplies.
The Invisible Threat: PFAS
PFAS — the "forever chemicals" — are showing up in every lake we test. We detected PFAS in 98.3% of our samples, with the highest concentrations near urban areas and military bases. Lake Ontario has the highest levels, with some samples exceeding Health Canada's drinking water guidelines by 400%.
The scary part? We're still learning what these chemicals do to aquatic life. Early results suggest they may be affecting fish reproduction and immune systems. And with over 4,700 different PFAS compounds out there, we've barely scratched the surface.
Publications
We don't just do research — we share it. Here's what we've published recently, plus some classics that changed how we think about freshwater.
Microplastic Distribution in the Great Lakes
Journal of Great Lakes Research, 2023
Our landmark study mapping microplastic concentrations across all five lakes. Found that Lake Erie has 6.6 times more microplastics than Lake Superior — and that fibers from clothing are the most common type.
Read PaperGroundwater Contributions to Lake Michigan
Water Resources Research, 2022
This study changed how we think about water budgets. We proved that groundwater contributes 43% of Lake Michigan's water input — and carries more phosphorus than all rivers combined.
Read PaperToxic Algal Blooms in a Changing Climate
Environmental Science & Technology, 2021
Our research shows that algal blooms are starting earlier, lasting longer, and producing toxins at lower temperatures. The old prediction models? They're obsolete.
Read PaperPFAS in Great Lakes Fish
Science of the Total Environment, 2023
We tested 1,478 fish from all five lakes and found PFAS in every single one. Lake trout had the highest concentrations — bad news for anyone who likes to eat them.
Read PaperThe Great Lakes Plastic Cycle
Nature Sustainability, 2020
This paper introduced the concept of the "plastic cycle" — showing how microplastics move between water, sediment, and the atmosphere. Turns out, plastic doesn't just disappear — it just moves around.
Read PaperCitizen Science for Water Quality
PLOS ONE, 2019
Proved that citizen scientists can collect reliable water quality data. Our volunteers helped us monitor 247 sites across the basin — and their data matched lab results 94% of the time.
Read PaperOngoing Initiatives
Research never stops — and neither do we. Here's what we're working on right now, and how you can get involved.
The Great Lakes Plastic Census
We're creating the first comprehensive inventory of plastic pollution in the Great Lakes. This isn't just about counting particles — it's about understanding where they come from, where they go, and how they change over time.
Want to help? We're looking for volunteers to help with beach cleanups and sample sorting. No experience needed — just a willingness to get your hands dirty.
Join the Census
Smart Lakes Sensor Network
We're deploying 200 smart sensors across the Great Lakes to monitor water quality in real-time. These sensors measure temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, conductivity, and turbidity — and send data to our servers every 15 minutes.
The best part? All the data is open-access. Scientists, policymakers, and curious citizens can access it through our online portal. Because information wants to be free — especially when it's about our water.
Explore Live DataIndigenous Water Knowledge Project
We're partnering with Indigenous communities to combine traditional ecological knowledge with western science. This isn't about "validating" Indigenous knowledge — it's about learning from it.
So far, we've worked with 12 First Nations to document traditional water monitoring practices, map sacred water sites, and develop community-based water quality programs. The results? Better science, stronger relationships, and more effective conservation.
Learn About the ProjectHelp Us Protect the Lakes
Research is just the first step. Turning knowledge into action is what really matters. Here's how you can help:
Join Our Citizen Science Program
No lab coat required. We'll train you to collect water samples, monitor algal blooms, or track microplastics. All you need is curiosity and a few hours a month.
Sign UpSupport Our Work
Every dollar helps us collect more samples, analyze more data, and share more findings. Even $20 makes a difference — that's enough to process 10 water samples.
DonateSpread the Word
Follow us on social media, share our research, and talk to your friends about the Great Lakes. The more people know, the more they care — and the more they'll do to protect our water.
Follow Us"The Great Lakes Water Lab doesn't just study water — they fight for it. Their research on microplastics changed how our city manages waste, and their algal bloom predictions saved our summer tourism season. Science with a purpose — that's what they do."