Michiganders urged to avoid foam on water surfaces

By SooLeader Staff | SooLeader | May 24, 2026

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"With summer approaching, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) reminds residents and visitors to avoid foam on Michigan lakes, rivers, streams and other surface waters.

Foam can form on any body of water. It can be white, off-white or brown, and may have an earthy or fishy scent. It tends to pile up in bays, eddies, dams or other river barriers.

Foam can contain harmful chemicals or bacteria, including high levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). PFAS are a large group of human-made chemicals that are linked to harmful health effects, including high cholesterol and liver damage."

Location:

• North AmericaUS
• North AmericaUSMichigan

Topics:

• ChemicalsPFAS
• ChemicalsPolymer
• Affected community
• Health