AUGUSTA - The Legislature's Environment and Natural Resources Committee voted unanimously on Wednesday to advance a bill sponsored by Rep. Bill Bridgeo, D-Augusta, aimed at funding lake restoration projects.
As amended, LD 164 would provide $2.5 million over two years to the Department of Environmental Protections Lake Restoration and Protection Fund to help fund efforts that will either improve or maintain the water quality of lakes in the state.
"Im proud that there was unanimous, bipartisan support for this bill," said Bridgeo. "Our lakes and ponds are vital to both the culture of our state and our tourism industry, and this initiative will aid us in making sure they are of the highest quality."
In recent years, many of Maine's lakes and ponds have been impacted by an increase in algae blooms, which has had a negative effect on both the water quality and the surrounding ecosystems. Algae blooms occur when cyanobacteria rapidly multiplies within a body of water. These blooms can potentially cause health issues among residents and animals who enter the water.
The bill faces further votes in the House and Senate in the coming weeks.
Bridgeo is serving his first term in the Maine Legislature and represents House District 60, which includes part of Augusta. He serves on the Legislature's Environment and Natural Resources Committee.
Contact:
Brian Lee [Bridgeo], c. 305-965-2744