This week on Currently, we welcome a new voice to the table — Ellie Katz, science, conservation, and environment reporter from Interlochen Public Radio — who joins Beth Milligan of the Traverse City Ticker and host Christal Frost for a jam-packed conversation!

Brought to you by lead underwriter Golden-Fowler Home Furnishings: Home Fashion Elevated, located on S. Garfield Avenue in Traverse City. Support also comes from West Shore Bank – committed to the well-being of the community, and The Coin Slot Arcade Bar – a chill hangout in Traverse City featuring a full bar, pinball machines, and a great selection of drinks.

In this episode:

🏕️ East Bay Township Camping Debate
Can you camp in your own backyard? Should short-term private camping be regulated like Airbnbs? We dig into the township’s tricky new ordinance discussion.

🚣‍♀️ Fees for Business Use of Public Parkland
With summer events like Paddle for Pints on the horizon, the City of Traverse City considers how (and how much) private businesses should pay to use public spaces.

🌨️ The Ice Storm That Hit the North
Ellie Katz gives us insight into whether extreme weather — like last week’s ice storm in Gaylord, Charlevoix, and Petoskey — is connected to climate change.

🐍 The Return of Sea Lamprey Control Efforts
The invasive sea lamprey is back in focus as the Great Lakes Fishery Commission resumes critical control operations. What do these parasitic predators mean for the ecosystem?

All that, plus community vibes, laughs, and our #ExtraBall Challenge.

🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts. Watch the full show on YouTube or Facebook.