LSSU’s SEWER project recently came to an abrupt halt when the project’s MDHHS grant was paused. The project is part of the statewide SEWER network that monitors communicable diseases such as Covid-19, Norovirus, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) in wastewater using locally coordinated projects. The statewide project includes 36 local health departments, 5 Tribal Nations, 18 public, private, and academic laboratories, EGLE, wastewater treatment agencies, colleges, universities, local municipalities, and other individual congregate facilities.
This map shows the SEWER network sampling sites in Michigan as of October 2022.
The funding pause is part of the many federal funding cuts and freezes that have swept facilities and institutions in recent months. LSSU’s grant had been renewed through September 2025, though the funds were rescinded when the overall SEWER project was paused. Funding is not typically cut off mid-cycle as it was in this scenario. The usual procedure is for projects to be reviewed and not renewed at the end of their term if they are deemed unneeded.
LSSU analyzes samples from 16 locations in Chippewa, Luce, Mackinac, Alger, and Schoolcraft counties on a weekly basis to monitor the spread and prevalence of infectious diseases in the eastern UP. Data from the project is provided to public health agencies in the surrounding area and beyond, including the Chippewa County Health Department, LMAS District Health Department, and the Bay Mills Indian Community in a collaborative effort to protect community health in the EUP. These agencies are able to use this information to forecast infectious disease outbreaks by evaluating trends of infection in wastewater. The information allows them to implement targeted interventions to stop major outbreaks from occurring and mitigate risks to public health and function. The agencies are also able to alert local health care facilities about the increase in cases so they can better prepare to treat patient and protect medical personnel.
In addition to maintaining health in the EUP, the SEWER project offers LSSU students a way to engage in a real-world project and gain invaluable laboratory experience working alongside faculty while also serving their community. LSSU has been part of the SEWER network since 2019 and employed three full-time staff members alongside six students until the funding pause cut all positions.
Despite this setback, LSSU remains steadfast in its commitment to helping maintain the health of EUP communities. It is not known at the moment whether or not Michigan’s SEWER project will be resumed, though University analysts hope to see the project resume so LSSU may continue providing crucial data and research to keep community members safe and healthy.