Great Lakes

As a Member of the Great Lakes Task Force, Rep. Petri is supportive of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact that became effective on December 8, 2008. It is an agreement by the eight Great Lakes states and two Canadian provinces to protect the lakes from large-scale water diversions and to promote water conservation. It will protect a resource critical to Wisconsin's culture and economic development.

The Great Lakes are a national treasure, containing 90 percent of the freshwater in the United States. More than 35 million people live in the Great Lakes basin and depend on its natural resources for many vital needs such as drinking water, energy production, and transportation. Furthermore, the Great Lakes provide resources to support millions of jobs, especially in the fishery and boating industries. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, nearly $15 billion in recreational activities, including fishing, hunting, and wildlife watching occur annually in the Great Lakes region.

Rep. Petri has consistently supported legislation to restore and protect the Great Lakes. Many provisions are aimed at stopping the introduction and spread of aquatic invasive species, as well as preventing sewage contamination.

Related Press Releases

• Rep. Petri Braves the Weather to Fight Asian Carp, February 9, 2010