Probably everyone remembers that toxic algae blooms made Toledo's water unsafe to drink two years ago, and most are aware the threat persists. But how many people realize how much is still happening that risks ruining the lake? According to a new group, advocates for a clean Lake Erie, so-called factory farms, or "cafos" are dumping 700 million gallons of untreated manure and liquid waste on the land in such concentrations that it is flowing downhill into Lake Erie. The U.S. Corps of Engineers plans to dump 1.1 million cubic yards of sediment into the lake, stuff that will bring with it the phosphorous and nitrates most apt to trigger algae blooms. Why is this happening? And what can be done about it? Joining us tonight to talk about all these issues is Sandy Bihn, Executive Director of Lake Erie waterkeeper, and a woman who has worked many years on behalf of the lake; Pam Taylor, who has been working "full time for free" on water issues with the concerned citizens of South Central Michigan, and Mike Ferner, a longtime environmental activist.
