The government of Ontario is introducing legislation aimed at protecting the Great Lakes. All of the Great Lakes, including Superior, are covered by the proposed legislation but “nutrients” from substances like agricultural fertilizers and phosphorous from sewage treatment plants get special attention. The lower lakes, especially Lake Erie, have been heavily impacted by nutrients causing large-scale algae blooms. Impacts of climate change on the Great Lakes are also included. The Ontario Government says that, if passed, the new legislation would:
- Help fight climate change, reduce harmful algal blooms, and protect wetlands and other coastal areas.
- Monitor and report on the health of the lakes.
- Bring people together to take action on priority issues.
- Build on Ontario’s leadership in protecting the Great Lakes, including the Great Lakes Strategy and partnerships with Canada, Quebec, U.S.A., and the Great Lakes states.