Press Releases

Yesterday, U.S. Representatives Bill Huizenga (R-MI) and Mike Quigley (D-IL) introduced the Great Lakes Fishery Research Reauthorization Act. This bipartisan bill will reauthorize the Great Lakes Fishery Research program, set to expire at the end of September, for another five years through FY 2030. This program has provided the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Great Lakes Science Center dedicated funding to conduct critical research supporting the approximately multi-billion-dollar sport and commercial fishing industry in the Great Lakes. The bill maintains the current research program authorization level at $15 million each year. 

“Recreational fishing in Michigan accounts for over $3.9 billion in economic output. As an angler myself, I’m proud to help introduce the bipartisan Great Lakes Fishery Research Reauthorization Act,” said Rep. Huizenga, Co-Chair of the House Great Lakes Task Force. “This bill will strengthen our vital fisheries with the research and technology needed to continue benefiting the ecology of the Great Lakes and the small business economy of Southwest Michigan.”

"The Great Lakes are the pride of the region and one of the finest natural wonders of the world, but their native species and ecosystems face complex challenges. To protect the Great Lakes from threats like invasive species and habitat degradation, Congress must reauthorize this program," said Rep. Quigley, co-chair of the House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition and a member of the House Great Lakes Task Force. "It's on us to preserve our natural resources for future generations. I'm proud to continue my support of the Great Lakes Science Center and their integral work to do just that."

"History tells us that solid, scientific understanding of what is happening in the Great Lakes is essential to managing this multi-billion-dollar resource," said Ethan Baker, chairman of the Great Lakes Fishery Commission. "Effective fishery management starts and ends with accurate data, which is why the Great Lakes Fishery Research Authorization Act is the foundation for the decisions taken by state and Tribal fishery managers. The bipartisan authors and sponsors of this bill are Great Lakes champions, and I commend them for the work they are doing on behalf of everyone working and living in the Great Lakes Basin."