A world of knowledge awaits on World Lake Day, Aug. 27

EGLE invites Michiganders to dive deep into United Nations’ second annual recognition

From the smaller lakes dotting our landscape to the Great Lakes encircling us – and don’t forget our rivers, streams, and aquifers – natural waters are foundational to the people of Michigan. Any day can be a lake day in Michigan, but Thursday, Aug. 27, is the official World Lake Day, declared by the United Nations (U.N.) General Assembly and dedicated to preserving, celebrating, and sustainably managing the world’s lakes.  

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) and its Office of the Great Lakes (OGL) are joining communities worldwide to celebrate World Lake Day by spotlighting the critical importance of the world’s lakes and highlighting the vital role of youth education in sustaining the world’s freshwater legacy. 

On World Lake Day and every day, the OGL invites all Michiganders to spend time by water, reflect on the wonders of our Great Lakes State, and act to protect these vital resources. Action can be as simple as picking up trash or joining an organized cleanup, swimming or wading, boating or fishing, reading a book or article, watching a video or webinar, or supporting organizations advancing research or stewardship. Opportunities to engage include:  

Youth-focused educational opportunities include: 

• Exploring current opportunities and activities through the From Students to Stewards Initiative to grow future water stewards and leaders and help students from elementary through high school learn about the Great Lakes, Michigan’s watersheds, and actions people can take to steward water resources across the state.   
• Learning about Michigan programs and educational resources, including the MiSTEM Freshwater Literacy and Stewardship playbook, that support “3P” learning (based on places, projects, and problems) and promote stewardship of Michigan's waters, watersheds, and environment.  
• Deepening lessons and learning with EGLE Classroom and the Center for Great Lakes Literacy Resource Library, both of which support teachers, students, and parents in environmental education.  

The U.N.’s designation of World Lake Day reflects growing international recognition of freshwater lakes as critical resources and defenses against the worst impacts of climate change. The observance date, Aug. 27, commemorates the first World Lake Conference in 1984, in Shiga Prefecture, Japan. Shiga – home to Japan’s largest freshwater body, Lake Biwa – has a sister state relationship with Michigan because of their shared commitments to lakes. 

World Lake Day is a global reminder of the importance of lakes to communities, economies, the environment, and quality of life. In Michigan, where the Great Lakes are central to our identity, the day reinforces a shared commitment to preserve these waters for future generations.  

The celebration builds on momentum from Michigan’s annual Great Lakes and Fresh Water Week, which EGLE and partners mark in late May or early June each year to further connect residents to their local waterways and amplifying statewide stewardship efforts. 

“Lakes shape our communities, sustain our ecosystems, and inspire our way of life,” said EGLE Director Phillip Roos. “As Michiganders once again join the United Nations’ celebration of World Lake Day, EGLE reaffirms a commitment to protecting our state’s vital freshwater treasures for generations to come.” 

World Lake Day offers an opportunity to celebrate and empower young people improving and protecting lakes as part of a sustainable future for themselves, their communities, and their environment. Governor Gretchen Whitmer recognized World Lake Day 2026 in a State of Michigan proclamation that makes special mention of educating young people.  

“Investing in youth education is crucial for the continued health of lake ecosystems for generations to come and in supporting the voices of those who shape a sustainable future for lakes worldwide,” the proclamation reads. 

EGLE’s environmental education initiatives immerse students in hands on learning about local watersheds through water quality sampling, shoreline restoration, invasive species monitoring, climate resilience projects, and watershed mapping. Students build practical skills while fostering personal connections to the Great Lakes. 

“World Lake Day reminds us Michigan’s fresh waters are irreplaceable, and protecting them depends on everyone taking action, particularly inspiring the next generation,” Finnell said. “By engaging young people today, we help ensure our lakes remain vibrant, healthy, and cherished for generations to come.” 

These efforts strengthen a long-term vision for thriving lakes, informed communities, and empowered youth who will carry a legacy of stewardship into the future. Next summer, the 2027 World Lake Conference in Tanzania will continue celebrating and building momentum for sustaining the world’s lakes and supporting a youth voice to create future stewards. 

More information is available at World Lake Day | United Nations. Learn more about Michigan on the OGL’s Stewarding the Great Lakes webpage, including links to local events, videos, educational resources on topics such as invasive species identification, and proper disposal of old medications.

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