Susan Bence

Strains of highly pathogenic avian influenza have been killing migratory and resident birds, as well as poultry. In Jefferson County alone, waves have struck twice.

Lake Michigan is teeming with life. But over time, its food web — from the smallest plankton to the largest fish —has been impacted. Overfishing and waves of invasive species have taken their toll.Now, climate change is flexing its muscles in the Lake Michigan ecosystem. On land we’ve felt and seen it during what’s been the warmest winter on record.

Some people have enjoyed the warm winter we just experienced — not having to bundle up or shovel as much, and perhaps having lower energy bills. Others recognize the temperatures as a very real sign of climate change. And as a result, they're more determined than ever to reduce their carbon footprint.

The American Birkebeineris a cross country skier's dream. The annual event where Sawyer and Bayfield counties converge also means a lot to the local economy. Last month, organizers pulled off the 50 th Birkie despite all odds.

We've been asking Milwaukee area residents what they have on their minds in this year loaded with elections. Lots of people are thinking about climate change and environmental issues. On April 2, Milwaukee residents will vote for mayor and common council members. So, how much power do those local officials have to effect environmental policies and practices?

Heavy rains hammered our region this week, causing pressure on the MMSD sewage treatment plant, which couldn't keep up with the demand. As a result, the MMSD discharged water and sewage — they haven't yet said how much — into area rivers to prevent wastewater from backing up into basements.

The much-anticipated solar eclipse that created so much buzz around the country is officially over. In some parts of the country, the sky darkened and the moon seemed to consume the sun.

One of the oldest fish species still around is the lake sturgeon . The torpedo-shaped fish's family line dates as far back as 136 million years ago.

Fifty-four years ago today, the first Earth Day burst onto the scene. The year was 1970. Lakes and rivers were polluted. The air was toxic in urban and industrial areas.

In northeastern Wisconsin, a young program called Medicine Fish is connecting Menominee tribal youth to nature.