    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2004, Book I)]
    [May 18, 2004]
    [Page 899]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Establishing the Great Lakes Interagency Task Force
    May 18, 2004

        The Great Lakes are a national treasure that represents 20 percent
    of the world's fresh water. The Great Lakes region is an economic engine
    and recreational haven, and we are making great progress in protecting
    and restoring this vital natural resource.
        To build on that progress, today I am establishing the Great Lakes
    Interagency Task Force, chaired by EPA Administrator Mike
    Leavitt. The Task Force will address
    environmental and natural resource issues of national concern and better
    coordinate the region's sustainable development and restoration. It will
    harness the collective efforts of the Federal Government, Governors,
    mayors, Members of Congress, tribes, and citizen stewards to ensure that
    the greatness of the lakes endures for generations. The Task Force will
    also consult with the Government of Canada on the most effective way
    forward on addressing past and current environmental impacts to the
    Great Lakes ecology.

    Note: The Executive order on establishment of the Task Force is listed
    in Appendix D at the end of this volume.