However, I would like to mention that a proposed implementation structure has been prepared for consideration by the Detroit River Binational Public Advisory Council. If this is approved, this structure will identify implementation activities based on the recommendations in the Remedial Action Plan. Remedial options to address contaminated sediments on the Michigan side of the river must be developed and implemented. We realize that currently there are only limited funds available and these should be invested in remedial actions that will provide optimal environmental net benefit, such as cleaning up contaminated sediment. One obvious hole in the restoration process is the limited business and industrial involvement in the restoration process.
Options exist to better involve business and industry.
As restoration progresses, there could be considerable benefits from establishing a community partnership organization for cleanup of the Detroit River and its contaminated sediments. Such partnerships exist in different forms in Toronto, Ontario and in Ashtabula, Ohio that have been highly successful. Due to budget cuts and changing priorities, these monitoring programs for the Detroit River have been substantially cut or eliminated. Monitoring, assessment and research must be seen as a priority and should made a part of their core environmental program in order to evaluate program effectiveness and make mid-course corrections. The current efforts to monitor and assess the Trenton Channel should be expanded to the entire Detroit River ecosystem.