From its headwaters in Minnesota to the deltas of Louisiana, the Mississippi River welcomes millions of anglers every year. But as nitrate runoff and invasive species threaten fisheries throughout the River, the Mississippi needs a total restoration effort to ensure sportfish stay healthy for the next generation of anglers.
Last month, Rep. Betty McCollum (D-MN) introduced the Mississippi River Restoration and Resilience Initiative Act (MRRRI). This bill, modeled on other successful regional restoration programs, will authorize $300 million in federal funding to support integrated state efforts to improve water quality, conserve wildlife habitats and combat the spread of invasive species.
As seen in the Great Lakes, Chesapeake Bay and Gulf of Mexico, federal-state partnerships have proven track records of restoring wildlife and supporting recreation. By funding pollution cleanup and habitat restoration, MRRRI can keep walleye, catfish, bass and other sportfish populations healthy up and down the river.
Tell your Representative to support the MRRRI Act today! Add your name to the form on the right, and feel free to add your own words to the letter attached.
