Great Lakes Conservation

Regional Conservation Organizations

There are several regional conservation organizations that focus on preserving the Great Lakes' ecosystem and supporting sustainable practices in the region.

These organizations contribute significantly to the protection, restoration, and sustainable management of the Great Lakes region. They collaborate with various stakeholders, including government agencies, businesses, and local communities, to safeguard the health and vitality of the Great Lakes ecosystem.

  • Healing Our Waters - Great Lakes Coalition: This coalition consists of over 160 environmental, conservation, and outdoor recreation organizations, as well as zoos, aquariums, and museums. They focus on securing funding for Great Lakes restoration and advocating for policies that promote clean water, healthy wildlife, and a strong regional economy.

  • The Nature Conservancy - Great Lakes Program: As part of the global environmental organization, The Nature Conservancy's Great Lakes Program aims to protect and restore the region's habitats, such as forests, wetlands, and coastal areas. The program focuses on sustainable agriculture, reducing nutrient runoff, and combating invasive species.

  • The Great Lakes Commission (GLC): The GLC is an interstate agency that promotes the development, use, and conservation of the water resources of the Great Lakes region. It consists of representatives from the eight Great Lakes states and two Canadian provinces.

  • The Great Lakes Fishery Commission (GLFC): Established by the 1955 Convention on Great Lakes Fisheries, the GLFC coordinates fisheries research and management in the region. It also focuses on controlling sea lamprey, an invasive species that threatens native fish populations.

  • Freshwater Future: Freshwater Future is a nonprofit organization that supports local community efforts to protect and restore the waters of the Great Lakes region. They provide funding, technical assistance, and training to grassroots conservation groups.

  • The Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative: This coalition of mayors from the United States and Canada works together to protect and restore the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River. They focus on sustainable development, climate change adaptation, and water conservation.

  • The Great Lakes Conservation Coalition (GLCC): A partnership of several conservation organizations that work collectively to protect and restore the Great Lakes ecosystem. The coalition brings together diverse groups with a common goal of conserving the region's natural resources, promoting sustainable practices, and addressing environmental challenges.

  • The National Wildlife Federation - Great Lakes Regional Center: From restoring watersheds to ensuring all Great Lakers have affordable access to clean drinking water, the work at the GLRC convenes local voices so that habitats, wildlife, and people can thrive.