Revitalizing a National Jewel: Decade of the Great Lakes Restoration Project

The Great Lakes, the largest freshwater system on Earth, have been facing a decline in the quality and quantity of fish habitat for several decades. This concern, however, is being addressed through a significant initiative: the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI).

Launched in 2010, the GLRI is primarily managed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), although no specific organization name beyond the initiative itself is clearly stated in the provided search results. The initiative has seen the involvement of other key players, notably the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Over the past decade, the GLRI has made substantial strides in restoring the Great Lakes ecosystem. One of its most notable achievements is the restoration of coastal wetlands, stretching from the Buffalo River in New York to Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

NOAA's projects under the GLRI have also been instrumental in improving fish passage, removing invasive species, and cleaning up contaminated debris. As a result, more than 500 miles of rivers and streams have been opened to fish migration, and over 4,500 acres of habitat for fish and wildlife have been restored.

The GLRI has not only focused on environmental recovery but also on providing recreational opportunities for the public. The initiative has significantly improved the water quality, enhancing the enjoyment of the Great Lakes for millions of visitors each year.

NOAA's Great Lakes Restoration Initiative story map offers a comprehensive overview of a decade's worth of work in the Great Lakes region. The map highlights the restoration of fish habitats, the removal of invasive species, and the improvement of fish passage, among other achievements.

The GLRI has been a crucial step towards strengthening valuable Great Lakes fisheries, ensuring the sustainability of this vital natural resource for future generations. The initiative continues to face challenges such as degrading habitat, overfishing, marine debris, pollution from oil and chemical spills, but its successes serve as a testament to the power of collaborative efforts in preserving and restoring our environment.