Great Lakes Restoration Initiative
What is the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative?
The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative was launched in 2010 as a non-regulatory program to accelerate efforts to protect and restore the largest system of fresh surface water in the world and to accelerate progress toward the most critical long-term goals for this important ecosystem.
The GLRI has majorly improved local communities and economies by restoring areas with severe environmental degradation. The GLRI has helped tourism flourish, increased recreational activities, and led to new residential and business developments.
Federal agencies use GLRI resources to strategically target the biggest threats to the Great Lakes ecosystem and to accelerate progress toward long term goals. Combining GLRI resources with agency base budgets, GLRI agencies work with nonfederal partners to implement protection and restoration projects.
Projects are funded based on GLRI priorities and after extensive discussion between the 16 federal GLRI agencies, including input from the states, Tribes, and other partners. Examples of projects include removing contaminated sediment from historically polluted areas, reestablishing fisheries critical to the economy, and working with farmers to develop cost-effective ways to prevent phosphorous runoff.
Focus Areas
Action Plan IV provides a roadmap for how EPA and the other federal agencies will address the most pressing issues in the Great Lakes during fiscal years 2025-2029. Action Plan IV outlines objectives, commitment, and measures across five Focus Areas.
