Jennifer Nalbone
At long last, Coast Guard proposes new rule on ballast water
Public comments on the rule wraps up December 4, and citizens from across the region are making it clear what works in this rule, and what could still be strengthened.
Asian carp knocking on the back door
New DNA testing finds the invasive carp just miles from the electric barrier that protects the Great Lakes from these ravenous fish.
Principles plot course for a sustainable Seaway
Earlier this summer Great Lakes United released seven principles that chart the course for a truly sustainable Great Lakes shipping industry. Over 50 organizations have endorsed these principles, and groups and individuals are invited to show their support.
New Soo lock: Stimulus or slop?
As the United States tries to weather the current recession with a stimulus package breathing on the back of a trillion dollars, long-forgotten projects are popping up like dandelions.
Poorly regulated trade opens door to invasive species
A trip to the pet store is a glimpse at the diversity of animals from all over the world. However, lack of import screening means these animals pose one of the greatest threats to biodiversity in the Great Lakes.
Politics hold up historic ballast legislation
When Congress returns next week it will mean a short window to pass legislation that sets a global precedence for protection from aquatic invasive species. After this window closes the session ends and politicians become absorbed in fall election campaigns. The opportunity to pass this bill will not come again until next year.
Congress must act in face of $200 million losses to Great Lakes region by invasive species
Time is running out on a solution to the Great Lakes invasive species problem, and the cost to the region has swelled to at least $200 million a year and is growing, according to a team of scientists and economists.
Say “No” to Great Lakes cargo dumping
The U.S. Coast Guard released a draft Environmental Impact Statement for the rulemaking: “Dry Residue Discharges in the Great Lakes”. In this rulemaking the Coast Guard proposes to deviate from federal and international laws and permit the dumping of cargo- such as limestone, iron ore, coal, and grain- from commercial vessels into the Great Lakes.
Federal ballast legislation passes House of Representatives
In a landslide vote, the U.S. House of Representatives made a huge step in protecting the Great Lakes, passing legislation to stop invasive species discharged from ocean-going vessels.
Local members of Congress lead charge on ballast legislation
The Great Lakes environmental community has been calling for a solution to the ballast problem, and federal decision-makers in the region were pivotal pushing it forward in the House of Representatives.
© 2008 Great Lakes News. 
