Impassioned, restless, tall, angular and full of energy. Michael McKernan has spent his life mixing scientific rigour, robust field work and an enduring belief that we can do better. He’s retired now but for decades he ran consulting firms that specialized in environmental management projects. He was in the rooms where decisions were made in Manitoba, decisions that we all live with today, for better and worse. McKernan can often be scathing about how slowly things change and especially how easily politicians bow to powerful forces.

This episode of Dispatches is another in a series of full interviews, posted as part of the Lake Winnipeg project. That’s a collaborative effort to figure out how we hurt the lake through neglect, ignorance and greed. The idea is to look at ways we can make amends and maybe even restore the health of the lake.

McKernan’s interview is long but worth the time. He’s forthright and brings fascinating history and insight to this project. He’s not afraid of the answers to tough questions. Once you’ve heard what he has to say let me know what stands out for you.

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Don’t miss the other episodes that are a part of this journalistic co-creation. Find engaging conversations with Vicki Burns, Bill Barlow, Hank Venema and others. All are available on Dispatches.  Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts.