U.S. job cuts threaten Great Lakes water monitoring efforts

The U.S. Department of Government Efficiency recently cut hundreds of jobs at NOAA, impacting technicians who monitor the Great Lakes alongside Canadian scientists. This has raised concerns about potential negative effects on water quality and invasive species management. Canadian scientists warn that reduced U.S. staffing will hinder tracking of blue-green algae and sea lampreys, which threaten native fish populations and water safety. Collaborative efforts between U.S. and Canadian organizations are crucial for effective monitoring and management. Scientists are calling for increased support from both countries to address these challenges. They emphasize the importance of binational cooperation in managing the Great Lakes, which are vital for drinking water and local economies.