Pat Fairbrother, owner of Birchwood Resort and Campground, reported losing $1,400 in Labor Day weekend cancellations following a harmful algae bloom advisory on Lake Cadillac (Michigan). The advisory is the latest in a series of environmental challenges impacting visitor numbers at her year-round campground, according to 9&10 News.
The harmful algae bloom advisory follows earlier water quality issues this year, including a high E. coli advisory issued during Memorial Day weekend and the release of millions of gallons of partially treated sewage into the Clam River after floods in April.
Fairbrother said the repeated warnings have damaged the area’s reputation and led to a sharp drop in overall tourism.
Peccia explained that municipal treatment efforts are restricted to invasive species, as state regulations prohibit the removal of native plant and animal life. Addressing water quality concerns, he noted that local communities no longer have access to a former statewide control program for waterfowl, which has contributed to elevated bacteria levels.
