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Speakers urge Senate to restore H2Ohio funding for wetlands, water-quality work
Summary
Scientists, farmers and conservation groups told the Ohio Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee that the state's H2Ohio program and related ODNR wetland projects need the originally proposed $270 million to sustain wetland restoration, nutrient-reduction work and long-term monitoring.
Dozens of scientists, agricultural leaders and conservation groups testified to the Ohio Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee urging restoration of the H2Ohio appropriation and sustained funding for wetland restoration and monitoring. They said short-term cuts would undercut long-term progress in reducing nutrient runoff that drives harmful algal blooms in Lake Erie and other Ohio waters.
Dr. Steven Jackman, professor of water quality at Wright State Lake Campus, said H2Ohio-backed wetland and conservation projects have improved local water quality in Grand Lake St. Marys and elsewhere but remain early in their timelines. "Water quality can be improved and real benefits can be realized," Jackman said, adding that wetlands and other conservation practices require years to design, permit and mature before they…
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