While there is ongoing discussion concerning the best methods to address Lake Erie’s various challenges, numerous agencies and organizations have identified the following as the main actions that should be taken:

  • A 40% reduction in the amount of phosphorus and a reduction of nitrogen that annually enters Lake Erie.
  • “Best Management Practices” for agriculture designed to obtain the greatest phosphorus reductions to achieve the nutrient reduction goals.
  • Accountability, measurement and reporting for the dollars that have so far been spent to reduce the amount of phosphorous and nitrogen in the lake.
  • Lowering the target amount of phosphorus in agricultural soil to match the crop need rate that has been established for commercial fertilizer.
  • Adherence to the federal Clean Water Act recommendations for a “Total Maximum Daily Load” (TMDL) of phosphorus in Lake Erie and its tributaries.
  • Implementation of the USEPA nine-step watershed management process.
  • Funding for additional measures to keep Asian Carp out of the Great Lakes.
  • Encourage the USEPA to adopt standards for recreational contact and drinking water as these apply to microcystin, PFAs, and other toxins.
  • Encourage additional funding for technology and equipment necessary for phosphorus reduction strategies.
  • Continued education and outreach to inform the public/organizations about Lake Erie’s waters and fish.