Congressman Tim Walberg is calling on the U.S. Department of the Interior to remain committed to protecting the Great Lakes as its next budget is under discussion. The U.S. House Natural Resources Committee this week held a hearing on that budget with Interior Secretary Doug Burgum testifying. Walberg told Burgum the Great Lakes are critical to states like Michigan.
“We’re blessed with having the jewel of fresh water for the world surrounding Michigan with the Great Lakes, but we also don’t want to see the jeopardizing of our country’s $230 billion recreational boating and sports fishing industry,” Walberg said.
So, Walberg had a question.
“Could you describe the importance you see ensuring that we protect our waters from aquatic invasive species, which pose a growing problem across the country, and how we can continue to balance stewardship and economic growth?”
Burgum agreed with Walberg that the Great Lakes must be protected, saying waterways are central to the nation’s outdoor recreation economy. He also praised anglers and sportsmen as strong advocates for conservation and healthy fisheries.
