Program Overview
Created to further the restoration and revitalization of the region, the Great Lakes Washington Program (GLWP) improves the Great Lakes ecosystem and economy through its relationship with the bipartisan U.S. Senate and House Great Lakes Task Forces of the Northeast-Midwest Coalitions, as well as its outreach and interaction with state, provincial, and federal agencies, experts, and stakeholders. By conducting and providing non-partisan federal policy research and background, and tracking legislation, the GLWP serves as a trusted source for the region on Great Lakes issues.
The Great Lakes are a world-class fresh-water resource shared by multiple nations, states, provinces, tribes, and local jurisdictions. At the U.S. federal level alone, 16 senators, 52 representatives, and more than 15 agencies hold sway over Great Lakes management decisions. The GLWP serves as an invaluable resource for all of these agencies, stakeholders, and constituents.
Key Goals
- Inform and support federal efforts--including oversight, funding, and authorization of programs--to help achieve Great Lakes protection and restoration objectives;
- Raise awareness and inform Congressional offices and Administration officials about Great Lakes and critical federal programs relevant to the Great Lakes; and
- Build and cultivate bipartisan and bicameral collaboration and communication to create a state of readiness within the GLTFs to act effectively on behalf of the Great Lakes.
Key Activities
- Providing research and policy analysis to policy-makers upon request;
- Identifying and developing areas of collaboration for the bipartisan Great Lakes Task Forces (GLTF) and delegations;
- Supporting the membership of the Great Lakes Task Forces with information and contacts within the region;
- Keeping regional leaders and stakeholders aware of advances in policy and opportunities to weigh in on policy development; and
- Serving as a trusted resource for Great Lakes Congressional offices on sensitive policy questions.
Learn more about the GLWP below
