Larger Coastal Zones May be In the Works for Lake Erie
The Pennsylvania DEP may be expanding the coastal zones for parts of Lake Erie across the state. The expansion will include all of the area watersheds that travel into the lake.
Grant funds that are currently used on smaller areas of the coastlines would be used for the entire Lake Erie project and for small construction projects such as fishing areas and restoration projects.
"Expanding Lake Erie's coastal zone would create new opportunities for grant-funded improvements in the Lake Erie watershed," DEP Northwest Regional Director Kelly Burch said. "We are pleased to offer an opportunity for residents to comment on this important proposal."
The local Lake Erie Advisory Committee asked DEP's Coastal Resources Management Program (CRMP) to study and consider an expanded watershed boundary back in 2011 and the committee has been exploring the possibility since then.
Three listening sessions have been scheduled for June 18 at 9 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., and June 19 at 3 p.m.