America's Great Waters Coalition Praised

Press Release

Congresswoman Chellie Pingree today congratulated national, regional and local environmental groups on forming a new coalition to protect the Gulf of Maine and other major bodies of water. The "America's Great Waters Coalition" will bring together over 30 organizations to focus public and political support on protecting 9 of the largest water ecosystems in the country, including the Gulf of Maine, the Great Lakes, Chesapeake Bay and Puget Sound.

"These ecosystems are crucial to our environment and our economy," Pingree said. "I want to congratulate the National Wildlife Federation, National Parks and Conservation Association, Restore America's Estuaries and the many other conservation organizations from all parts of the US on the launch of the America's Great Waters Coalition."

"Ecosystems like the Gulf of Maine, the Great Lakes, Chesapeake Bay, and Puget Sound are under increasing environmental stress, and your work and advocacy will help ensure that these invaluable economic and ecological resources are conserved, restored, and managed in a way that will benefit all Americans," she said. "I live on an island in Maine 12 miles off the coast, and I see first hand the importance and value of the Gulf of Maine ecosystem. Our lobstermen, shellfish harvesters, recreational fishermen, boaters, and many other coastal users rely on clean water and healthy ecosystems. Working together, we can protect and restore these ecosystems and help ensure the continued viability of the jobs and communities that depend on them."

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