Federal Independent Agencies
Here's a look at documents from federal independent agencies
Featured Stories
Lapse in Appropriation Will Not Impact Ginnie Mae's Core Functions
WASHINGTON, Oct. 2 -- Ginnie Mae issued the following news release:
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Lapse in Appropriation Will Not Impact Ginnie Mae's Core Functions
Ginnie Mae plays a critical role in the secondary mortgage market, providing stability and liquidity, and maintaining the overall health of the economy. As such, Ginnie Mae will continue to perform all functions necessary to ensure that there is not a disruption in the market during a potential lapse in appropriations.
These functions include granting of commitment authority, support for continued issuance of Ginnie Mae-guaranteed Mortgage-Backed Securities
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WASHINGTON, Oct. 2 -- Ginnie Mae issued the following news release:
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Lapse in Appropriation Will Not Impact Ginnie Mae's Core Functions
Ginnie Mae plays a critical role in the secondary mortgage market, providing stability and liquidity, and maintaining the overall health of the economy. As such, Ginnie Mae will continue to perform all functions necessary to ensure that there is not a disruption in the market during a potential lapse in appropriations.
These functions include granting of commitment authority, support for continued issuance of Ginnie Mae-guaranteed Mortgage-Backed Securities(MBS) (including related PIIT pools) and Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduits (REMICs) and taking all actions necessary to ensure timely payment of principal and interest to investors.
During a potential lapse in appropriations, single-family and multifamily loans will continue to remain eligible for securitization so long as they meet requirements for insurance/guaranty of the insuring/guaranteeing agency when they are pooled and are in the process of being insured or guaranteed.
For more information, including FAQs, see HUD's Contingency Plan for a Possible Lapse in Appropriations (https://www.hud.gov/sites/dfiles/PA/documents/HUD-Lapse-Plan.pdf).
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About Ginnie Mae
Ginnie Mae is an entirely government-owned corporation that attracts global capital into the housing finance system to support homeownership for veterans and millions of homeowners throughout the country. Ginnie Mae mortgage-backed security (MBS) programs directly support housing finance programs administered by the Federal Housing Administration, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Office of Public and Indian Housing, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Rural Housing Service. Ginnie Mae is the only MBS to carry the explicit full faith and credit of the United States Government. Additional information about Ginnie Mae is available at www.ginniemae.gov and on Twitter, YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
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Original text here: https://www.ginniemae.gov/newsroom/Pages/PressReleaseDispPage.aspx?ParamID=364
IDB and Partners Drive High-Impact Innovation in Early Childhood Development
WASHINGTON, Oct. 2 -- The Inter-American Development Bank issued the following news release:
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IDB and Partners Drive High-Impact Innovation in Early Childhood Development
The Early Childhood Development Innovation Fund backed 23 projects in 10 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean, benefiting over 700,000 children.
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The Early Childhood Development Innovation Fund, a groundbreaking initiative by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and other strategic partners, improved the quality of life of more than 700,000 children in Latin America and the Caribbean. In its eight years
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WASHINGTON, Oct. 2 -- The Inter-American Development Bank issued the following news release:
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IDB and Partners Drive High-Impact Innovation in Early Childhood Development
The Early Childhood Development Innovation Fund backed 23 projects in 10 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean, benefiting over 700,000 children.
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The Early Childhood Development Innovation Fund, a groundbreaking initiative by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and other strategic partners, improved the quality of life of more than 700,000 children in Latin America and the Caribbean. In its eight yearsof implementation, during which it invested $10 million, it also benefited 300,000 parents and caregivers and 5,000 childcare centers in the region.
The 23 projects it funded in Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Panama, and Uruguay explored new ways to boost attendance in early childhood education, improve the quality of interactions between children and caregivers, and address the situation of migrant children.
"Investing in children's development is a highly cost-effective strategy. Quality programs for vulnerable children ages zero to five generate an annual return as high as 14%," said Ferdinando Regalia, IDB Social Sector Manager. "Not making these investments has a high cost for society and undermines the future education, economy, and health of an entire country," he concluded.
One of the fund's most notable initiatives is the Reach Up and Learn program in Jamaica, which supported and strengthened parenting skills in the home during the COVID-19 pandemic. This program was later adapted to Brazil's context, with positive results for children's cognitive and language development. In Uruguay, the fund backed an intervention to reduce absenteeism in preschool education through messages to caregivers. In Colombia, support was provided for the analysis needed to facilitate the expansion of Semillas de Apego, a community program for families living in vulnerable contexts.
To find innovative ways to scale up child development programs while emphasizing quality, the IDB joined forces with leading civil society organizations--FEMSA Foundation, Van Leer Foundation, Maria Cecilia Souto Vidigal Foundation, and Porticus--to create the fund. The alliance came together to finance, design, implement, and evaluate novel and scalable approaches that improve the lives of children under age five in the region, with a focus on the most disadvantaged groups within each country.
In Latin America and the Caribbean, the cost of non-action in early childhood amounts to 1.6% of the region's gross domestic product (GDP). Millions of children in the region still lack essential health, nutrition, and early childhood stimulation services. The average country in the region only allocates 0.34% of its GDP to preschool education, well below the average percentage in Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development member countries. This low investment restricts access to quality services and deepens social inequalities.
In addition to its projects, the Early Childhood Development Innovation Fund became a regional knowledge platform. It generated evidence on the most effective interventions and shared resources and best practices through the Community of Practice in Early Childhood Development and the Childhood Development Hub. This effort bolstered collaboration between governments, civil society, the private sector, and academia and laid the groundwork for more effective and sustainable public policies.
The achievements of the Innovation Fund for Early Childhood Development in Latin America and the Caribbean reflect the IDB Group's commitment to expanding the impact and scale of development initiatives to fuel sustainable economic growth in Latin America and the Caribbean in a way that puts people at the center of development.
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About the IDB
The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), a member of the IDB Group, is devoted to improving lives across Latin America and the Caribbean. Founded in 1959, the Bank works with the region's public sector to design and enable impactful, innovative solutions for sustainable and inclusive development. Leveraging financing, technical expertise, and knowledge, it promotes growth and well-being in 26 countries. Visit our website: www.iadb.org/en.
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Original text here: https://www.iadb.org/en/news/idb-and-partners-drive-high-impact-innovation-early-childhood-development
Bahamas to Strengthen Disaster-Risk Management With IDB Support
WASHINGTON, Oct. 2 -- The Inter-American Development Bank issued the following news release:
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Bahamas to Strengthen Disaster-Risk Management with IDB Support
The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has approved a US$160 million loan to support The Bahamas in enhancing its disaster-risk management.
The operation, which has been approved by the IDB's Board of Executive Directors, is the second loan in a series of two. The first, approved in 2023, focused on establishing the legal structure for disaster-risk management. It led to the passage of the Disaster Risk Management Act.
This second
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WASHINGTON, Oct. 2 -- The Inter-American Development Bank issued the following news release:
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Bahamas to Strengthen Disaster-Risk Management with IDB Support
The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has approved a US$160 million loan to support The Bahamas in enhancing its disaster-risk management.
The operation, which has been approved by the IDB's Board of Executive Directors, is the second loan in a series of two. The first, approved in 2023, focused on establishing the legal structure for disaster-risk management. It led to the passage of the Disaster Risk Management Act.
This secondloan will allow The Bahamas to design and adopt the core policy instruments created by that law, such as national standards for humanitarian assistance, a comprehensive financial strategy for disaster management, and reference parameters for disaster management. The operation will also enable the Bahamian authorities to better identify and reduce risks and improve disaster preparedness and recovery planning.
Under the program, the authorities plan to create an information system based on past disasters and projected scenarios to improve risk informed decision making and preparedness. Additionally, the program will train public officials in risk assessment to ensure that disaster resilience is progressively integrated into new public infrastructure.
The Bahamas is among the countries in the region most exposed to natural disasters. In the last 25 years, it has experienced 15 major events, mostly hurricanes.
The program will benefit the approximately 390,000 residents across all the islands of The Bahamas, which are exposed to the effects of tropical storms and hurricanes.
The IDB loan has a 20-year repayment term, a 5.5-year grace period, and an interest rate based on the secured overnight financing rate (SOFR).
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About the IDB
The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), a member of the IDB Group, is devoted to improving lives across Latin America and the Caribbean. Founded in 1959, the Bank works with the region's public sector to design and enable impactful, innovative solutions for sustainable and inclusive development. Leveraging financing, technical expertise, and knowledge, it promotes growth and well-being in 26 countries. Visit our website: https://www.iadb.org/en.
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Original text here: https://www.iadb.org/en/news/bahamas-strengthen-disaster-risk-management-idb-support
USPS releases Jimmy Carter commemorative Forever stamp
WASHINGTON, Oct. 1 -- The U.S. Postal Service issued the following news release:
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USPS releases Jimmy Carter commemorative Forever stamp
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ATLANTA -- The U.S. Postal Service commemorated the life and legacy of President Jimmy Carter today with the issuance of a commemorative stamp on what would have been his 101st birthday. The dedication ceremony took place at The Carter Center in Atlanta.
"Born in 1924 in Plains, Georgia -- a town of just 600 people -- Jimmy Carter's story is one of humble beginnings leading to a lifetime of extraordinary service," said Thomas J. Marshall, general
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WASHINGTON, Oct. 1 -- The U.S. Postal Service issued the following news release:
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USPS releases Jimmy Carter commemorative Forever stamp
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ATLANTA -- The U.S. Postal Service commemorated the life and legacy of President Jimmy Carter today with the issuance of a commemorative stamp on what would have been his 101st birthday. The dedication ceremony took place at The Carter Center in Atlanta.
"Born in 1924 in Plains, Georgia -- a town of just 600 people -- Jimmy Carter's story is one of humble beginnings leading to a lifetime of extraordinary service," said Thomas J. Marshall, generalcounsel and executive vice president of the U.S. Postal Service. "During his presidency from 1977 to 1981, he confronted many challenges and achieved many milestones. But perhaps the most remarkable chapter began after he left the White House. Rather than retreating to a comfortable retirement, he and his wife, Rosalynn, embarked on what many consider the most consequential post-presidency in American history."
Jason Carter, chair of The Carter Center, said, "Our family is excited to attend the first-day-of-issue ceremony to celebrate the life and legacy of my grandfather, President Jimmy Carter. My grandparents would be touched by this incredible honor."
Beth Davis, The Carter Center's chief operating officer, said the Postal Service played a central role in President Carter's life.
"Postcards from his uncle inspired a young Jimmy Carter to join the Navy and explore the world outside of rural Georgia. Missives from his mother during her time in India with the Peace Corps after she retired from nursing set the example for him that a life of purpose doesn't end in your 50s when one career path concludes. The culmination of this inspiration led to President Carter's idea for The Carter Center, where he spent more than 40 years, together with Mrs. Carter, waging peace, fighting disease and building hope worldwide," said Davis, who is also the director of scheduling for the Office of Jimmy Carter.
From his origins in small-town Georgia, Carter came to the White House as an outsider who represented a new generation of progressive Southern politicians.
He was inaugurated as the 39th president on Jan. 20, 1977. During his term, he would make humility and reconciliation recurring themes in his presidency.
Carter made a mark with his appointments of many women and minorities to government positions. He created a presidential commission on mental health, established new cabinet departments, and greatly increased the size of the National Park System and federally designated wilderness areas. Mindful of the nation's fiscal position, he was deeply concerned with trying to balance the federal budget and control inflation. In his efforts to improve the economy, he ushered through deregulation in several industries, including energy and air travel.
On the world stage, he was praised for personally negotiating the Camp David Accords, providing a framework for peace in the Middle East. He signed SALT II, a treaty with the Soviet Union to limit strategic nuclear arms, and he initiated a major change in foreign policy when he announced that the United States would officially recognize and establish formal diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China.
After leaving the presidency, Carter became a prominent activist for peace, human rights and social and economic progress around the world. In 1982, he partnered with Emory University to establish The Carter Center, which advances democracy and human rights, resolves conflicts and works to improve health in some of the world's poorest nations. In recognition of his efforts, he received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 -- cementing his reputation as one of the most active and admired former presidents.
The stamp art is a 1982 oil-on-linen painting created as a life study by artist Herbert E. Abrams (1921-2003) in preparation for painting Carter's official White House portrait. Ethel Kessler, an art director for USPS, designed the stamp.
As a Forever stamp, the Jimmy Carter stamp will always be equal in value to the current First-Class Mail 1-ounce price. News of the stamp is being shared with the hashtag #JimmyCarterStamp.
Postal Products
Customers may purchase stamps and other philatelic products through the Postal Store at usps.com/shopstamps, by calling 844-737-7826, by mail through USA Philatelic or at Post Office locations nationwide. For officially licensed stamp products, shop the USPS Officially Licensed Collection on Amazon. Additional information on stamps, First Day of Issue Ceremonies and stamp inspired products can be found at StampsForever.com.
The United States Postal Service is an independent federal establishment, mandated to be self-financing and to serve every American community through the affordable, reliable and secure delivery of mail and packages to nearly 169 million addresses six and often seven days a week. Overseen by a bipartisan Board of Governors, the Postal Service is implementing a 10-year transformation plan, Delivering for America, to modernize the postal network, restore long-term financial sustainability, dramatically improve service across all mail and shipping categories, and maintain the organization as one of America's most valued and trusted brands.
The Postal Service generally receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.
For USPS media resources, including broadcast-quality video and audio and photo stills, visit the USPS Newsroom. Follow us on X, formerly known as Twitter; Facebook ; Instagram ; Pinterest ; Threads and LinkedIn. Subscribe to the USPS YouTube Channel. For more information about the Postal Service, visit usps.com and facts.usps.com.
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Original text here: https://about.usps.com/newsroom/national-releases/2025/1001-jimmy-carter-forever-stamp-now-available.htm
Join EPA's Water Webinars for Cybersecurity Awareness Month
WASHINGTON, Oct. 1 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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Join EPA's Water Webinars for Cybersecurity Awareness Month
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WASHINGTON - October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month and, as the lead federal agency supporting cybersecurity for drinking water and wastewater systems, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is launching a series of water cybersecurity webinars.
Strengthening cybersecurity for water systems is a public health and a national security priority, and EPA is working in collaboration with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security
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WASHINGTON, Oct. 1 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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Join EPA's Water Webinars for Cybersecurity Awareness Month
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WASHINGTON - October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month and, as the lead federal agency supporting cybersecurity for drinking water and wastewater systems, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is launching a series of water cybersecurity webinars.
Strengthening cybersecurity for water systems is a public health and a national security priority, and EPA is working in collaboration with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure SecurityAgency (CISA), states, and water associations to help reduce the risk of cyber attacks.
"Across the country, American people and American businesses rely on safe and effective drinking water treatment and wastewater management. Cyber threats put that foundation of safety and security at risk," said EPA Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator for Water Peggy Browne. "EPA is committed to working directly with water systems and with our dynamic partners to ensure that cyber resilience is prioritized in water system management. This work is critical to ensuring reliable access to clean and safe water for all Americans, a feature of the agency's 'Powering the Great American Comeback' initiative."
During Cybersecurity Awareness Month, EPA will host multiple webinars to raise awareness and strengthen cyber resilience in the water sector. The agency will share sector-specific data and trends, provide tools, best practices, and training opportunities for water utilities, system operators, Information Technology and Operational Technology professionals, and local leaders.
Join EPA this October to learn more about water cybersecurity with webinars on October 2, October 15 and October 30. Registration is now open for all three webinars:
Cybersecurity Utility Talk Exit EPA's website, Oct. 2, 2025, 1:00 - 1:30 p.m. ET
Join EPA for a Utility Talk featuring EJ Water Cooperative, a rural Illinois water and wastewater provider serving over 75,000 people. Hear how they strengthened the cybersecurity posture of their Information Technology and Operational Technology systems and enhanced their cyber resilience. Learn practical lessons and strategies that can help other water and wastewater utilities strengthen their defenses.
Cybersecurity Procurement Checklist Webinar Exit EPA's website, Oct. 15, 2025, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. ET
Join EPA for an informative webinar on a soon-to-be-released Cybersecurity Procurement Checklist, a resource designed to help water and wastewater utilities incorporate cybersecurity into their procurement process.
Cybersecurity Vulnerability Scanning Webinar Exit EPA's website, Oct. 30, 2025, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. ET
EPA and CISA will provide an overview of the most common cybersecurity vulnerabilities identified at water and wastewater systems via CISA's Free Cyber Vulnerability Scanning for Water Utilities and EPA's Proactive Vulnerability Identification Program for Water and Wastewater Systems.
The threat of cyberattacks against water systems has increased in recent years, and EPA continues to work with these water systems to implement best management practices to swiftly address any cybersecurity concerns as they arise.
Learn more about EPA's water cybersecurity efforts.
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Original text here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/join-epas-water-webinars-cybersecurity-awareness-month
IDB Group Kicks Off 'South Connection' to Boost Connectivity and Growth in South America
WASHINGTON, Oct. 1 -- The Inter-American Development Bank issued the following news release:
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IDB Group Kicks Off 'South Connection' to Boost Connectivity and Growth in South America
The Inter-American Development Bank Group (IDB Group) has set in motion the South Connection regional program, following discussion by the Board of Executive Directors. This new initiative seeks to improve connectivity and competitiveness in South America to promote sustainable growth.
South America holds enormous potential, but structural challenges continue to impede progress, including high trade costs,
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WASHINGTON, Oct. 1 -- The Inter-American Development Bank issued the following news release:
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IDB Group Kicks Off 'South Connection' to Boost Connectivity and Growth in South America
The Inter-American Development Bank Group (IDB Group) has set in motion the South Connection regional program, following discussion by the Board of Executive Directors. This new initiative seeks to improve connectivity and competitiveness in South America to promote sustainable growth.
South America holds enormous potential, but structural challenges continue to impede progress, including high trade costs,limited trade integration, poor transportation and digital infrastructure, weak energy connectivity, and fragmented regulations. The continent also experiences low levels of investment, underdeveloped trade in services (just 15% of exports, versus 25-30% in advanced economies), limited regional coordination, and gaps in institutional capacity.
South Connection offers a strategic, regional response to these integration challenges. By investing in resilient physical, digital, and energy connectivity, the program will reinforce regional cooperation to tackle shared challenges and unlock new opportunities for private-sector-led growth and job creation.
South Connection joins the IDB Group's three other regional programs, Amazonia Forever, America en el Centro, and ONE Caribbean. These initiatives demonstrate the renewed vision of integration outlined in the Group's Institutional Strategy, IDBStrategy+, based on shared priorities, flexible approaches, and solutions tailored to the diversity of Latin America and the Caribbean.
Acting on the mandate from IDB and IDB Invest governors representing Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, and Uruguay, South Connection is structured around three pillars:
-Enhancing physical and digital connectivity, through modernization of climate-resilient roads, ports, waterways, power grids, and digital infrastructure.
-Optimizing logistics and trade facilitation, by modernizing border crossings, streamlining customs operations, improving interagency coordination, supporting binational logistics hubs, and deploying data-exchange tools.
-Strengthening institutional and regulatory capacities, by promoting regulatory convergence aligned with global standards that encourages investment and improves governance.
The program will mobilize resources from across the IDB Group: the IDB will support sovereign-guaranteed operations, technical assistance, and a robust knowledge agenda; IDB Invest will drive private-sector participation and help structure high-impact projects; and IDB Lab will promote innovation and ecosystem development. The program will also encourage collaboration with other multilateral institutions and donors and support strengthened public-private partnership (PPP) frameworks, which are key to attracting private investment and ensuring better value for money in infrastructure projects.
Environmental and social sustainability will be a cross-cutting principle in all projects, ensuring compliance with environmental and social standards and policies, as well as inclusion of local communities.
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About the IDB Group
The Inter-American Development Bank Group (IDB Group) is the leading source of financing and knowledge for improving lives in Latin America and the Caribbean. It comprises the IDB, which works with the region's public sector and enables the private sector; IDB Invest, which directly supports private companies and projects; and IDB Lab, which spurs entrepreneurial innovation.
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Original text here: https://www.iadb.org/en/news/idb-group-kicks-south-connection-boost-connectivity-and-growth-south-america
EPA, EGLE and Partners Celebrate Removal of Muskegon Lake from List of Most Environmentally Degraded Areas in the Great Lakes
WASHINGTON, Oct. 1 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA, EGLE and Partners Celebrate Removal of Muskegon Lake from List of Most Environmentally Degraded Areas in the Great Lakes
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CHICAGO (October 1, 2025) - Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Regional Administrator Anne Vogel, along with Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy Director Phillip Roos, joined other federal, state, Tribal and local partners in Muskegon, Michigan, at an event to celebrate the cleanup and restoration of the Muskegon Lake Area of Concern,
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WASHINGTON, Oct. 1 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA, EGLE and Partners Celebrate Removal of Muskegon Lake from List of Most Environmentally Degraded Areas in the Great Lakes
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CHICAGO (October 1, 2025) - Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Regional Administrator Anne Vogel, along with Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy Director Phillip Roos, joined other federal, state, Tribal and local partners in Muskegon, Michigan, at an event to celebrate the cleanup and restoration of the Muskegon Lake Area of Concern,a 4,149-acre lake that flows into the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. After decades of work, the lake has officially been removed from the binational list of "Areas of Concern," and is no longer considered one of the Great Lakes' most environmentally degraded areas. Muskegon Lake is the eighth U.S. Area of Concern to be delisted.
"The successful cleanup and restoration of the Muskegon Lake Area of Concern, achieved through decades of dedicated effort, marks a significant milestone in our ongoing work to restore and protect the Great Lakes," said EPA Region 5 Administrator and Great Lakes National Program Manager Anne Vogel. "This accomplishment showcases the commitment and collaborative spirit of our partners in restoring not just the lake, but also the habitats and recreational opportunities that had been lost for so long."
"Completing this long journey of recovery, restoration, and renewal is a tremendous community achievement that EGLE has been proud to assist," said EGLE Director Phil Roos. "Alongside many partners, we celebrate today's success and look forward to supporting tomorrow's continued stewardship and growth."
"I'm thrilled to celebrate the restoration of Muskegon Lake, a body of water that is vital to both the local community and health of our Great Lakes. This achievement is a testament to the decades of collaborative efforts between federal, state, local, and tribal partners to get the job done," said Sen. Gary Peters (D-MI). "During my time in the Senate, I've been proud to fight for continued funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative to bolster cleanup across the state, including tens of millions of dollars to support this essential project, and I'll never stop fighting to protect our Great Lakes for future generations."
"Today is a huge milestone in Muskegon Lake's comeback story," said Rep. Hillary Scholten (D-MI-3). "Once, this lake was a symbol of environmental degradation. Today, it is a testament to what a community can accomplish when it comes together to protect and restore our beloved public lands. Michigan's lakes are treasures, and I will always fight for resources to protect our environment in Congress."
"The delisting of Muskegon Lake as an Area of Concern is a great bipartisan win for Muskegon, the Lakeshore, and the entire Great Lakes region," said Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-MI-4), Republican Co-Chair of the House Great Lakes Task Force. "I am proud to have championed funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative which played a critical role in the recovery of Muskegon Lake. For years, I have discussed how the Great Lakes economy is directly tied to the ecological health of the Great Lakes. By cleaning up legacy pollution, removing contaminated sediment, and restoring natural habitats, Muskegon Lake has transformed from an area of environmental concern to a source of recreation and economic opportunity. The efforts to restore Muskegon Lake have demonstrated how local, state, and federal partners can work together to reinvigorate communities, rebuild recreational opportunities, and make the Great Lakes even more enjoyable for the next generation."
"Muskegon is a city first and foremost set on Muskegon Lake; the lake has always been the lifeblood of the community, from the days of lumber, to the days of industry, to the tourism of today," said Michigan State Representative Will Snyder. "This momentous day is the culmination of decades of hard work by hundreds of concerned active citizens partnering with government at every level to do big things. It's exciting that we have restored Muskegon Lake to this degree. I look forward to the next decades of restoration."
"Muskegon Lake is set to be delisted by the Environmental Protection Agency, the State of Michigan, Muskegon County, municipalities and WMSRDC marking the culmination of decades of dedication and collaboration. Through generations of environmental cleanup, municipal sewer lift station upgrades, and the steadfast participation of private partners, this achievement stands as a monumental milestone," said Muskegon County Administrator Mark Eisenbarth. "This achievement restores cleaner water, healthier fisheries, improved wetlands, and stronger wildlife habitats. It also creates lasting recreational opportunities, protects public health, and ensures that future generations will enjoy the natural beauty and vitality of Muskegon Lake."
"For decades, our community has worked with partners in the non-profit sector and every level of government to heal the wounds left by industrial pollution and to restore our treasured Muskegon Lake," said City of Muskegon Mayor Ken Johnson. "Today's delisting is not only an environmental victory but a testament to what's possible when people come together with a shared vision for a healthier, more sustainable future. Muskegon Lake's recovery is ongoing, however, so we must be vigilant in protecting and cherishing the natural resources that define who we are as a community and a shoreline city, while we still look to our waterways to support economic growth."
"We are thrilled to share that Muskegon Lake has officially been delisted as a U.S. EPA-designated Area of Concern--a milestone that marks the successful restoration of our watershed," said Muskegon Lake Watershed Partnership Chair Dennis Kirksey. "From improved water quality to revitalized habitats, the transformation of Muskegon Lake reflects years of dedicated work and collaboration. This achievement is the result of sustained efforts by local, state, and federal partners, and especially the tireless contributions of volunteers through the Muskegon Lake Watershed Partnership (MLWP), which has served as the local Public Advisory Council throughout this journey. We are already witnessing the benefits of this restoration--not only in the health of our environment, but in the vitality of our local economy. These improvements will continue to shape our community for generations to come."
"I'm honored to have been part of the monumental transformation of Muskegon Lake. This achievement marks not only the end of an era but the beginning of a new chapter, one that will shape our community for generations to come," said West Michigan Shoreline Regional Development Commission Executive Director Erin Kuhn. "As we close the book on Muskegon Lake's designation as an Area of Concern, we celebrate a powerful moment in our shared history. It's a privilege to stand together in this historic transition, and now we have the opportunity, and the responsibility, to redefine our lake and our future while never losing sight of how far we've come."
Federal, state and local project partners remediated more than 190,000 cubic yards of contaminated sediment in projects totaling approximately $47 million. EPA provided $21 million of Great Lakes Restoration Initiative funding and $9.2 million of funding under the Great Lakes Legacy Act cost-share program. These investments leveraged an additional $16.3 million from state and local partners through in-kind and cash contributions.
Partners completed seven habitat restoration projects in the AOC with $38 million in GLRI funding, restoring approximately 134 acres of habitat and over 6,000 feet of shoreline. These restored areas include nearly 100 acres of open water and emergent wetlands, as well as habitat for fish and native plants. Additionally, project partners removed more than 110,000 tons of logging-era sawmill debris from the lake, restoring habitat for bottom-dwelling invertebrates and for fish and wildlife populations.
Economic Impacts
Great Lakes Restoration Initiative investments to restore Muskegon Lake are already paying dividends. According to a study by Grand Valley State University, the remediation and restoration of Muskegon Lake is projected to increase local home values by nearly $8 million and boost the local recreation economy by $28 million annually. Muskegon has already seen a 19% increase in customers at the marina, and a 45% increase in hotel room tax collected by the county. Overall, the projections anticipate a 6:1 ratio of return on investment.
More information is available at the Muskegon Lake Area of Concern website.
Follow EPA Region 5 on Instagram, Exit EPA's website X Exit EPA's website and visit our Facebook Exit EPA's website page. For more information about EPA Region 5, visit our website.
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Original text here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-egle-and-partners-celebrate-removal-muskegon-lake-list-most-environmentally
