TRAVERSE CITY, MI (AP)-- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is creating a board to help federal agencies carry out two Great Lakes protection programs. The board will advise EPA Chief Lisa Jackson, who leads a task force representing 16 departments with roles in the programs.
One is the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, which supports projects focusing on problems such as invasive species, toxic pollution and disappearing wildlife habitat. Congress has appropriated more than $1 billion dollars for the initiative.
The other program is the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement, a U.S.-Canadian cleanup strategy that is being renegotiated.
Jackson said Thursday the EPA will invite nominations for the advisory board, which will be established this summer. Candidates could represent interests such as environmental advocacy, agriculture, and Indian tribes.
