The Great Lakes are the largest source of fresh water on the planet. They are central to the environmental and economic life of the upper Midwest, and a cherished asset to the millions of people who live here. Yet today they face major pressures: climate change, invasive species, contamination from pollution and sewage, and growing demands for their water. Restoring and protecting the Great Lakes is a long-time commitment of The Joyce Foundation. Joyce grantees are working to restore the Great Lakes and protect them for future generations.

The Foundation believes that protecting the Lakes, with their vast environmental and economic significance, should be a national priority. For the past two years, grantees have shared their research and lessons learned with decision makers to educate them on the economic, environmental, and social benefits of restoring and protecting the Great Lakes. Joyce grantees are laying the groundwork to make the Great Lakes a federal priority for years to come. The following are highlights of recent work on Great Lakes Restoration; for a complete list of Great Lakes Restoration grants, see program grants list.