Lake Erie is one of our region’s greatest treasures — but it’s also one of our greatest responsibilities. From harmful algal blooms that threaten drinking water to invasive species that disrupt ecosystems, the health of the lake has a direct impact on our daily lives, our economy, and our future. Protecting it requires more than quick fixes or band-aid solutions. It requires smart, long-term investments in water quality and sustainable practices.
That’s where H2Ohio comes in.
What is H2Ohio?
H2Ohio is a state-led initiative launched in 2019 by Governor Mike DeWine with a clear mission: to improve water quality across Ohio by funding real, on-the-ground solutions. Unlike programs that simply study problems or issue reports, H2Ohio puts resources directly into the hands of farmers, communities, and local governments to stop pollution before it ever reaches our waterways.
The program is comprehensive, addressing multiple sources of water contamination that ultimately affect Lake Erie. Specifically, H2Ohio funding covers four major areas of investment:
1. Agriculture Practices
Agriculture is essential to Ohio’s economy, but traditional practices can unintentionally contribute to phosphorus runoff — one of the leading causes of harmful algal blooms in Lake Erie. Phosphorus acts like fertilizer in the water, feeding algae that can quickly grow out of control.
H2Ohio helps farmers implement science-based conservation practices such as:
- Cover crops that prevent soil erosion and absorb excess nutrients.
- Nutrient management plans that balance fertilizer use to match crop needs.
- Phosphorus filter technologies that capture nutrients before they leave the field.
These practices not only protect water quality but also improve soil health and farm resilience, making them a win-win for both farmers and the environment.
2. Wetlands Restoration
Wetlands are often called “nature’s kidneys” because of their natural ability to filter water. They capture nutrients, sediments, and pollutants before they reach rivers and lakes. Over the past century, many of Ohio’s wetlands were drained for development and agriculture, leaving Lake Erie without these natural filters.
H2Ohio is investing in restoring and creating new wetlands, particularly in northwest Ohio where runoff flows directly into the lake. These projects not only improve water quality but also provide critical habitat for fish, birds, and other wildlife, making them a cornerstone of both ecological and recreational health.
3. Wastewater Infrastructure
Many Ohio communities still rely on aging septic systems or outdated wastewater facilities that leak untreated or partially treated waste into waterways. This isn’t just an environmental problem — it’s a public health concern.
Through H2Ohio, funding is available to repair or replace failing septic systems and to modernize community wastewater treatment facilities. These upgrades reduce the amount of harmful bacteria and nutrients that reach streams and rivers, ultimately protecting both human health and Lake Erie’s ecosystem.
4. Drinking Water Improvements
For millions of Ohioans, Lake Erie is the source of their drinking water. Harmful algal blooms and other contaminants can make water unsafe and force expensive treatment processes. H2Ohio provides resources to help water treatment plants upgrade their technology, ensuring that when residents turn on the tap, the water they drink is clean and safe.
Why It Matters for Lake Erie
The importance of H2Ohio cannot be overstated. Its impact touches nearly every aspect of life in northern Ohio and beyond. Here are four reasons why this program matters:
- Cleaner Water, Fewer Algal Blooms
Harmful algal blooms are one of the most visible and urgent threats facing Lake Erie. They not only create foul-smelling, toxic water that drives people away from beaches and fishing spots, but they can also contaminate drinking water. By reducing phosphorus runoff and improving wastewater treatment, H2Ohio directly addresses the root causes of these blooms. - Stronger Local Economies
Lake Erie is a major driver of Ohio’s economy. From charter fishing businesses to marinas, restaurants, and tourism, billions of dollars depend on a clean and healthy lake. When the water is unsafe or unsightly, visitors stay away, and local businesses suffer. By investing in water quality, H2Ohio safeguards the livelihoods of thousands of Ohioans. - Health & Safety for Residents
Clean water isn’t optional. It’s a basic necessity for life. Algal toxins can cause illness in humans and animals, while untreated wastewater can spread harmful bacteria. By ensuring safer drinking water and reducing pollution, H2Ohio helps protect the health of the 11 million people who live in the Lake Erie watershed. - Protecting Future Generations
Perhaps the most compelling reason is the long-term legacy. The steps we take today to restore wetlands, support farmers, and improve infrastructure will determine the lake our children and grandchildren inherit. H2Ohio is about creating a healthier, more resilient Lake Erie for generations to come.
What’s at Stake
While the benefits of H2Ohio are clear, its future is not guaranteed. Funding is determined through the state budget process, meaning that every two years lawmakers decide whether to continue, expand, or reduce support. Without ongoing investment, progress could stall — and Lake Erie’s challenges will not wait.
This is why advocacy is critical. Programs like H2Ohio succeed when citizens make it clear to decision-makers that clean water is a priority. Legislators respond to the voices of their constituents, and every letter, phone call, and public comment makes a difference.
How You Can Help
Protecting Lake Erie requires collective effort. Here’s how you can take action:
- Stay Informed: Follow updates from Lake Erie Foundation to learn how H2Ohio funding is being used locally and what’s happening in the legislature.
- Raise Your Voice: Contact your state representatives and let them know H2Ohio matters to you. Advocacy doesn’t have to be complicated — even a short email can make an impact.
- Support LEF: By becoming a member or donor, you strengthen our ability to advocate for continued funding and to hold decision-makers accountable. Join Lake Erie Foundation today and help us protect the lake we all depend on.
The Bottom Line
H2Ohio is one of the most important tools we have to fight for clean water in Ohio. It brings together farmers, conservationists, communities, and policymakers in a shared mission to protect our water resources. Its funding supports practical, measurable solutions that address problems at their source, not just their symptoms.
Lake Erie’s future depends on sustained action. With your support — as an informed resident, an engaged advocate, and a proud member of Lake Erie Foundation — we can ensure that H2Ohio continues to deliver results and that Lake Erie remains a healthy, vibrant resource for all.
Take the next step: Join Lake Erie Foundation today and help us protect the lake we all depend on.