The EPA’s action plan directs action under five priority ‘focus areas’ which have been identified as vital for restoring the Great Lakes. The most polluted areas in the Great Lakes will be protected and cleaned-up to restore ‘working waterways’ for fishing and recreation. Steps will be taken to remove invasive species such as Asian carp from the Great Lakes. Funding will be targeted at reducing runoff from urban, suburban and agricultural sources which pollute the beaches.

Wetlands and other habitats will be restored including an assessment of the entire 530,000 acre Great Lakes coastal wetland to help the EPA’s task force begin to restore troubled areas. Accountability measures, learning initiatives, outreach and strategic partnerships will also be implemented to protect and restore the Great Lakes.

Lisa P Jackson, EPA administrator said: “We have an historic opportunity to restore and protect these waters. This action plan outlines our strategy to protect the environmental, human health, and economic interests of the millions of people who rely on the Great Lakes. We’re committed to creating a new standard of care that will leave the Great Lakes better for the next generation.”