Michigan's three largest public universities are using the water resources of the state and the Great Lakes region as a tool for research and promoting economic development, according to a report to be unveiled today on Mackinac Island. To be presented before Michigan's leaders at the Detroit Regional Chamber's Mackinac Policy Conference, the report details how Michigan State University, the University of Michigan and Wayne State University accounted for nearly $300 million in water research, education and outreach over five years. The research of the three universities - an alliance known as the University Research Corridor - has included addressing invasive species, monitoring water quality and optimizing water for agriculture. Additionally, every year the three universities produce more than 3,400 graduates who are prepared for careers in water-related issues in academia, government and the private sector, with nearly 40 percent of the graduates earning advanced degrees. "We are fortunate to be surrounded by the greatest body of fresh water in the world, with a fifth of the world's freshwater supply at our fingertips," said Wayne State University President M. Roy Wilson. "The URC is working hard to make sure that water is an economic resource not only for today but for future generations of Michigan residents."