The Michigan Boating Industries Association (MBIA), on behalf of its 300 members and the industry’s 54,000 employees, commends Governor Snyder for his leadership in pledging $6 million to fight invasive species threatening our Great Lakes in his recent budget proposal.

“The Great Lakes are a jewel to this region and important to the economic welfare of Michigan. Combined, the boating and fishing industries have a $14 billion impact on Michigan’s economy,” said MBIA Executive Director Nicki Polan. “The Great Lakes must be protected for future generations as well as for Michigan’s more than 4 million boaters and 9.9 million Michigan citizens who live, work and play on our five Great Lakes today.”

MBIA commends Governor Snyder for understanding the risks and for his leadership, pledging $6 million to be used at the state level.  MBIA also asks for our Michigan legislators to immediately adopt this as part of the budget. MBIA is also counting on U.S. Congressional leaders, and the entire nation, to understand the significant negative impact Asian Carp will have to the entire Great Lakes Basin , and to allow for full funding to permanently separate the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal from Lake Michigan – a key pathway for Asian carp. The U.S. Army Corp has identified this would require $18 billion in funding by Congress. MBIA feels this is the only effective option, and hopes that all stakeholders understand that the investment is needed to stop far greater losses.

The Michigan Boating Industries Association is a non-profit trade association representing more than 300 marine businesses and serves as the voice for Michigan’s $7.4 billion marine industry.  MBIA is dedicated to the advancement, promotion and protection of recreational boating in Michigan.  For more information about the MBIA call 734.261.0123734.261.0123 or visit www.mbia.org.