One of Wisconsin’s representatives in the Senate is looking to help restore and protect the nation’s largest river by volume.
Senator Tammy Baldwin has introduced the Mississippi River Restoration and Resilience Initiative (MRRRI) Act.
This measure would create a “collaborative initiative to coordinate efforts and invest in building resilience to flooding and storms, improving water quality, restoring wildlife habitat, and stopping the spread of aquatic invasive species.”
MRRRI is modeled around the successful and broadly supported Great Lakes Restoration Initiative that coordinates across states and sectors to clean up toxic contaminants, control harmful and invasive aquatic species, restore habitats, and leverage investments for economic activity.
Senator Baldwin said of the measure, “As communities along the river face more frequent flooding and worsening pollution, we must confront these challenges head-on while also making the long-term investments needed to prepare for those ahead. Investing in the Mighty Mississippi is an investment in our economy, the great outdoors and the next generation of Wisconsinites.”
Minnesota Rep. Betty McCollum is leading the companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.
