The Great Lakes make up one-fifth of the world’s surface freshwater and provide drinking water for more than 8.5 million Canadians. This vital region supports hundreds of rural and urban municipalities, numerous Tribal Governments, First Nations, and Métis communities and is home to more than 3,500 plant and animal species, some of which are found nowhere else on Earth! However, the Great Lakes and other freshwater systems across Canada continue to face threats, including those associated with climate change, nutrient pollution, harmful pollutants, biodiversity loss and more.
Increased Investment in the Great Lakes
Pollution Probe was recently invited to attend an announcement by the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, of an investment of more than $2.7 million over three years in 24 projects that will advance Great Lakes priorities under the Freshwater Action Plan. Projects include $276,000 in funding for the Lower Trent Conservation Authority to undertake work to reduce soil erosion and phosphorus loading in the Bay of Quinte and $75,656 for The Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte to support the planning and implementation of a community fish consumption survey.
The announcement took place in Belleville, on the shores of the Bay of Quinte. The funding is part of the more than $420 million over 10 years that the federal government has committed to accelerating the restoration and protection of the Great Lakes.
Pollution Probe’s CEO, Christopher Hilkene, and Director, Policy and Programs, Melissa DeYoung, were pleased to be among the freshwater and conservation organizations present for the announcement. The organization has been advocating for much needed investment in our freshwater systems and welcome these important commitments to our Great Lakes. Read more about the announcement here.