Keep Great Lakes great

As President Donald Trump’s initial budget released on March 16 shows a blatant disregard to our health and economy of the Great Lakes region, it is particularly important that we speak out to our elected officials to protect our indispensable water system (“Walker opposes cuts to Great Lakes funding,” March 17).

People living in the Great Lakes region need to appreciate what the impact that slashing funding to the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative will have. The Great Lakes are onefifth of the world’s fresh water and provides drinking water for 40 million people; it’s critical to ensure safe drinking water. Furthermore, our waterways are vital to fishing, tourism, local economies, transportation; and without this initiative, these industries will suffer greatly. Lastly, the Great Lakes provide a respite in nature that we need to give us a place to replenish and connect with loved ones that provides us with balance in our lives.

We cannot afford to abandon the Great Lakes. Between pollution, the increase in human population and climate change, our water is a valuable and scarce commodity that must continue be protected before it is too late.

As George W. Bush called the Great Lakes a “national treasure,” let’s fight to keep the Great Lakes great!

Maureen Keane Chicago