Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today issued a statement applauding President Barack Obama and the U.S. Congress for their support of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative.

The initiative, which was signed into law by President Obama on October 30, allocates $475 million to respond to a plan of action prepared by the Great Lakes states in cooperation with 16 federal agencies. 

Funding is available for the most significant problems facing the Great Lakes, including invasive aquatic species, wildlife habitat restoration, non-point source pollution, contaminated sediment clean up, water quality monitoring, and beach monitoring/clean up, all issues that Lake Erie and Ohio have experienced.

Governor’s statement:

“The Great Lakes are a vital resource for the state of Ohio and a national treasure that we have a responsibility to protect.

“Although significant strides have been taken to improve our Great Lakes, including Lake Erie, there is still much to be done. Through the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative funding, we will be able to achieve a balance between the use and preservation of this important resource. 

“I applaud President Obama and the Congress for recognizing the importance of this initiative and helping Ohio and the other Great Lakes states protect these waters for the use and enjoyment of future generations. I fully support the Great Lakes restoration efforts, which have the potential of generating $50 billion in long-term benefits by creating jobs, revitalizing our economy and improving our quality of life.”

Ohio’s list of proposed GLRI projects is available at www.lakeerike.ohio.gov/GLRI.aspx.