Nationally, groundwater is the source of about 40 percent of water used for public supplies and about 39 percent for agriculture. Michiganders rely on groundwater at even greater rates. About 44 percent of the population gets its drinking water from the ground. The state's agricultural enterprises use about 187 billion gallons of groundwater annually, double the amount in 2009. Groundwater supplies 25 percent of the volume of the Great Lakes and plays a vital role in creating cold-water habitats for trout streams and endangered flora and fauna.

Despite its importance, Michigan’s groundwater suffers from being out of sight, out of mind. But it takes the spotlight in this week's Northern Express, sister publication of The Ticker, which explores the condition and importance of the state's "sixth Great Lake." From septic issues on the rise to corporate pollution impacts to efforts underway to protect and restore groundwater health, the story investigates multiple angles affecting this crucial natural resource.

The Northern Express is available to read online, or pick up a free copy on newsstands at nearly 700 spots in 14 counties across northern Michigan.