$2.4 million in grants available for invasive species projects in Michigan

September 5, 2026

By the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Michigan’s Invasive Species Grant Program is now accepting proposals for the 2026 funding cycle, with an anticipated $2.4 million available to applicants. The program – a joint effort of the Michigan departments of Natural Resources; Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy; and Agriculture and Rural Development – is a statewide initiative to help prevent, detect and control invasive species in Michigan. Invasive species are those that are not native and whose introduction causes or is likely to cause harm to Michigan’s economy, ...

Case of former teacher’s aide set for jury trial

September 4, 2026

ESCANABA — After considering a plea offer, a former teacher’s aide at the Delta Schoolcraft Intermediate School District Learning Center has decided to proceed to a jury trial. Robin Merle Popour, 54, of Gladstone, appeared in the Delta County 47th Circuit Court Wednesday to officially ...

Superior Hills Elementary opens new playground

September 4, 2026

MARQUETTE — Superior Hills Elementary School in Marquette celebrated the opening of its new playground with a ceremonial ribbon cutting ceremony on Monday. The playground opened after a Superior Hills Association for Parents and Educators received a $100,000 reimbursement grant from the ...

Federal judge considers whether to extend ban against US Postal Service mail voting changes

September 4, 2026

BOSTON — A Justice Department lawyer representing the U.S. Postal Service on Thursday could not tell a federal judge whether a new system to regulate mail ballots at President Donald Trump's direction was operational, one day before ballots begin going out for the midterm elections. U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani repeatedly questioned attorney Michael Velchik about whether the Postal Service could actually implement Trump's plan from an executive order he issued last spring. The key piece is an online portal that would track tens of millions of mail ballots. States would be ...

MDARD, DNR expand ‘Don’t Move Firewood’ campaign ahead of Labor Day weekend

September 4, 2026

The Michigan Departments of Agriculture and Rural Development and Natural Resources are reminding consumers to not move firewood long distances this holiday weekend to help prevent the spread of invasive insects and plant diseases. The agencies are also working to expand access to certified ...

Rock River Township to potentially repeal zoning ordinance

September 3, 2026

MARQUETTE — The Rock River Township Planning Commission has scheduled a meeting at 7 p.m. on Sept. 14 at the Rock River Township Hall in Chatham to receive public comment on two actions proposed by the township board: rescinding Rock River Township’s rental ordinance, and rescinding the ...