Walberg Celebrates Great Lakes Legislative Accomplishments During Lake Appreciation Month

As Lake Appreciation Month comes to a close, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) recognizes the vital role the Great Lakes play in Michigan's economy and way of life. This Congress, the Congressman has introduced and supported multiple bipartisan pieces of legislation to preserve the health of the Great Lakes and their fisheries.

"As Michiganders, we all understand the vital role the Great Lakes play in our livelihood and way of life," said Rep. Walberg. "Whether it's casting a line into the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan or enjoying the world-class fisheries of Lake Erie, these lakes are central to who we are. However, the Great Lakes have faced various challenges over the years, threatening our fisheries, economy, and recreational opportunities for Michigan families. This Congress, I have been proud to work across the aisle to safeguard the health of the Great Lakes. By advancing bipartisan solutions, we can ensure that future generations enjoy the same world-class fisheries and natural treasures we cherish today."

Congressman Walberg has supported and introduced various pieces of legislation to protect the Great Lakes.

• In March 2026, Congressman Walberg voted in favor of, and the House passed, the American Water Stewardship Act, which would reauthorize funding for several long-standing programs to maintain and improve water quality throughout the nation, including the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI). The GLRI is a critical program that maintains and improves water quality.
• In November 2025, Rep. Walberg joined Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI) in introducing the bipartisan Save Great Lakes Fish Act to address the urgent, growing crisis of invasive mussels in the Great Lakes. The Save Great Lakes Fish Act would direct federal agencies to work with the Great Lakes Fishery Commission and tribal, state, and local governments on a coordinated effort to combat invasive mussel species.
• In July 2025, the House passed the Great Lakes Mass Marking Program Act. Introduced by Representatives Tim Walberg (R-MI), Debbie Dingell (D-MI), and Bill Huizenga (R-MI), the legislation would establish a program within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to work with state and tribal governments to implement mass marking of fish at hatcheries in the Great Lakes. The legislation will help us better track fish population patterns and changes, so we have the data necessary to preserve our Great Lakes fisheries.
• In May 2026, Rep. Walberg joined Rep. Sarah Elfreth (D-MD) in introducing the Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Control and Prevention Act. The bipartisan legislation would modernize federal AIS authorities to better prevent, control, and eradicate aquatic invasive species that threaten our Great Lakes.
• In April 2026, Rep. Walberg introduced the Responsible Cormorant Management and Control Act, which would establish a comprehensive and collaborative framework to effectively manage cormorant populations to protect our fisheries and other wildlife habitats.