The problems facing the Great Lakes are many, but we have solutions and it is time to use them. Each year we delay, the problems get worse and the solutions become more costly. We must act now to restore the health of the Great Lakes. Action is required at both the state and federal level to protect our drinking water, our health, our economy and our way of life.
Click here to download a factsheet on current policy issues concerning the Great Lakes.
State Ballast Water Legislation: Invasive species spread is a major concern and problem on the Lakes. Untreated ballast water from international and local sea-going vessels contains fish, invertebrates, and other invaders from foreign ports. We are already dealing with zebra mussels, Eurasion ruffe, spiney water fleas, roud goby, Asian carp, and viral hemorrhaginc seticemia (VHS). Minnesota's inland water are also at risk. Click on the links below to learn more about:
Minnesota Ballast Water Legislation - 2008
SF2517 - Lake Superior oceangoing vessels ballast water discharge regulation (status)
HF2963 - Lake Superior ballast water discharge regulation established; water exchange, discharge, and treatment standards adopted; and civil
penalties imposed. (status)
Minnesota VHS Legislation - 2008
SF3576 - Viral hemorrhagic septicemia control provisions (status)
HF3550 - Viral hemorrhagic septicemia control provided. (status)
Technology
Ballast Water Treatment Technology: Current Status (June 2007)
