The purpose of this study was to collect baseline information about public knowledge of and opinions toward the Great Lakes and to measure the impact of a television news program in educating adults about the Great Lakes. Survey questionnaires containing multiple-choice knowledge items and Likert scale opinion statements were completed by 570 shoppers in two Cleveland, Ohio shopping malls to determine the current levels of knowledge and the opinions held. This baseline data revealed that knowledge levels about the Great Lakes are generally low while opinions about the lakes are generally environmentally positive. Following the survey, survey questions and the correct answers were broadcast on a local television news program accompanied by explanatory video segments. Another sample of 461 Clevelanders was surveyed following the broadcast at county and city library branches. For both library and mall respondents, environmental knowledge level and environmental opinion were positively correlated and were most strongly associated with educational level. A comparison of knowledge scores on questions that had and had not been broadcast for library respondents who had watched the television broadcast showed that the news program was effective in increasing knowledge levels among those who viewed it. An introduction, literature review, research methods, and results are included. Appendices include: lists of references used in preparation of surveys; questionnaires and survey forms; broadcast questions; an activity and game entitled "The Lake Next Door," and "Dick Goddard's Lake Erie Guide & Game"; and a summary of survey results by question. (Author/CW)