H.R. 1073: Great Lakes Gateways Network Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Great Lakes Gateways Network Act of 2025, aims to enhance the management and conservation of natural, recreational, historical, and cultural resources within the Great Lakes Watershed. It directs the Secretary of the Interior to collaborate with various stakeholders, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), state and local governments, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector, to undertake several key actions:

Establishment of the Great Lakes Gateways Network

The bill proposes the creation of a Great Lakes Gateways Network, which would include:

• Identification and Conservation: Identifying and conserving important resources within the Great Lakes Watershed.
• Public Education: Enhancing public education and access to the Great Lakes through designated Great Lakes Gateways sites.
• Connectivity: Linking these sites with trails, tour roads, and scenic byways to improve visitor access and experience.
• Watertrails Development: Developing water routes that connect various sites within the watershed.
• Network Creation: Establishing a cohesive network of identified sites and water routes.

Great Lakes Gateways Grants Assistance Program

The bill also establishes a Great Lakes Gateways Grants Assistance Program to provide financial support for projects focused on:

• Conserving and restoring significant resources.
• Interpreting historical and cultural sites.
• Supporting recreational opportunities within the watershed.

This program will offer grants to state and local governments, communities, nonprofit organizations, and private entities.

Grant Eligibility and Funding

The Secretary, along with the EPA Administrator, is tasked with creating eligibility criteria for the grants provided under this program. Key points regarding funding include:

• Grants can cover up to 50% of the total project costs.
• The remaining project costs must be covered by non-federal sources, which can include in-kind contributions.
• Administrative expenses associated with the grants cannot exceed 10% of the total eligible project costs.

Fiscal Appropriations

The bill authorizes an appropriation of $6 million for each fiscal year from 2026 through 2031 to support the activities and programs outlined within the legislation.

Summary of Objectives

The overarching goals of this legislation include:

• Protected and enhanced natural resources in the Great Lakes region.
• Improved public access and educational opportunities related to the Great Lakes and their resources.
• Stronger connections between various sites of significance within the watershed.
• Financial assistance to aid in the conservation and interpretation of the region's resources.

Relevant Companies

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