The Action Plan provides a framework for key actions to restore polluted waterbodies. Many key actions have outlined opportunities to clean up pollution problems and set examples for effective water quality monitoring and assessment. Protecting public health is an important focus of the Action Plan. In 1998, brochures were developed to highlight risks associated with cumulative effects of consuming large amounts of fish contaminated by toxins. A 1999 fish epidemiology study of exposure levels in certain populations found further health risks associated with eating contaminated fish.
Excess nutrients are a major source of pollution in our waters.
As anticipated in the Action Plan, a multi-year strategy for the development and implementation of nutrient technical guidance and criteria has been issued. Key actions set ambitious plans for research, technical guidance, and monitoring of water quality. These plans will help form strategies for restoration and protection into the future. In 2000, more than ten new projects will be initiated. Recent research was instrumental in implementing a uniform Great Lakes fish advisory now used by all eight Great Lakes States.