[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 40, Number 21 (Monday, May 24, 2004)]
[Page 918]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
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.