July 18, 2019

COLUMBUS, OH —Today Governor Mike DeWine signed into law House Bill 166 - Ohio’s 2020–2021 operating budget bill.  Audubon applauds the inclusion of the H2Ohio water quality initiative that will fund programs to ensure safe and clean water in Lake Erie and throughout Ohio.

Statement from Audubon Great Lakes Policy Director, Marnie Urso

“Audubon thanks Governor DeWine for leading the effort to invest in Ohio’s waterways.  H2Ohio is an important step toward addressing the biggest threats that Lake Erie and our state’s waterways face.  Healthy waters mean healthy people, fish and wildlife.

In particular, we applaud the investment of $46.2M for natural restoration programs.  Wetlands can decrease flooding, are important habitat for birds and wildlife, and help to prevent nutrient run-off that contributes to algal blooms.

The H2Ohio initiative has broad bipartisan support and deserves to be fully funded beyond its initial two year allocation. Long term commitment will be necessary to address the threats that Ohio’s lakes and rivers face – from aging infrastructure to harmful algal blooms- these serious threats require a serious and consistent commitment beyond 2021.”

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Contact:
Marnie Urso, Policy Director, Audubon Great Lakes
216-246-7150
murso@audubon.org

The National Audubon Society protects birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. Audubon works throughout the Americas using science, advocacy, education, and on-the-ground conservation. State programs, nature centers, chapters, and partners give Audubon an unparalleled wingspan that reaches millions of people each year to inform, inspire, and unite diverse communities in conservation action. A nonprofit conservation organization since 1905, Audubon believes in a world in which people and wildlife thrive. Audubon Great Lakes is a regional office of Audubon, learn more at gl.audubon.org and follow us on Facebook,Twitter and Instagram.