The Ohio Newsroom, in collaboration with NPR, is highlighting local climate solutions as federal environmental regulations are rolled back. The Ohio River Basin, covering over 200,000 square miles across 15 states, lacks a dedicated EPA office and funding, in contrast to other major watersheds. The Ohio River Basin Alliance aims to rectify this situation, advocating for $350 million annually in federal funding to support conservation efforts and ecological restoration.
Alliance Chair Chris Lorentz emphasized that awareness of the basin’s importance is lacking compared to better-known watersheds like the Great Lakes. The proposed funding would address threats such as stormwater runoff, pollution, and invasive species, while also establishing an Ohio River National Program Office for coordinated efforts.
Current state initiatives, such as H2Ohio, help but are limited to Ohio’s borders. Bipartisan support in Congress for the proposed legislation, backed by Senators and Representatives from the region, raises hope for its passage. The alliance continues to engage with officials and prepare for conservation projects pending funding.
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