Stabenow Addresses Lake Concerns

The future of Lake St. Clair and its tributaries is not just a local issue, but one that is getting national attention and support.

U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow brought this message Tuesday to members of the Macomb County Democratic Party who filled thefor her keynote address.

"Protecting the water, protecting the Great Lakes is incredibly important," Stabenow said. "This is a fight for our future. It is our identity, it is who we are in Michigan."

During her nearly half-hour speech, Stabenow discussed legislation she has authored, including a ban on drilling in the Great Lakes and her efforts to stop Asian carp from entering any of the lakes.

She sees Asian carp as one of many threats to the health of the Great Lakes.

"We have had all hands on deck to come together to figure out how we stop these fish from coming into the Great Lakes," she said.

While the large carp are a concern, Stabenow added there are multiple threats to the ecosystem.

"Our enemies today are invasive species, low water levels, local climate change, toxic sediment, declining fish population ... in short the enemy is us," said Stabenow, who complimented local officials for their efforts. "Macomb County is really leading the way."

Stabenow said that she is working on ensuring funding for projects in the Great Lakes through:

• The upcoming Farm Bill through conservation and wildlife reserve programs that protect wetlands and animal habitats. This has included areas along the Clinton River Watershed and Lake St. Clair.
• The $475 million Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, which address issues including cleaning toxic areas, combating invasive species, protect watersheds and restoring wetlands. 
• Legislation to keep the Asian carp out of the Great Lakes via the Chicago River, but also other waterways that lead to the large bodies of water.

The senator added that there will likely be a political fight, as House Republicans want to cut funding for some environmental programs, but she feels it is an issue worth fighting for.

"Protecting the water, protecting the Great Lakes is incredibly important," Stabenow said. "This is a fight for our future. This is our identity. It is who we are in Michigan."