Great Lakes Issues
Residents of the 2nd District have long understood the importance of the Great Lakes and the impact fresh water has on the economic and physical health of their community. West Michigan should be proud of the work it has already accomplished – and understand the urgency of the work that still needs to be done. Invasive Species and Asian Carp The introduction of non-native species to the Great Lakes is currently one of the greatest economic and environmental threats to the region. In building a better defense for the Great Lakes against new invasive species, we must vigorously employ the most effective tools available, while anticipating improved techniques derived from additional research and application. Today, we remain particularly vulnerable to the migration of Asian carp, which are nonindigenous, invasive species that have the potential to severely impact the Great Lakes ecosystem and economy. Water Diversion With the enactment of the Great Lakes Compact in 2008, new or increased water withdrawals from the Great Lakes basin are fully managed and regulated by the states. Specifically, the Compact is an agreement between the eight Great Lakes states and two Canadian provinces that prohibits new or increased withdrawals from the Lakes unless strict conservation conditions are met. |