WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, President Trump and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Scott Pruitt visited Ohio to discuss their plan for infrastructure investments. 

Collin O’Mara, president and chief executive officer of the National Wildlife Federation, said: 

“The National Wildlife Federation welcomes President Trump and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Scott Pruitt to the Ohio River today — one of America's most important waterways, a source of drinking water for more than 5 million Americans, and vital habitat for nearly half of the freshwater fish species in the nation.

“Twenty-five million Americans in the 15 states within the Ohio River basin rely on the U.S. EPA funding and resources for clean air and clean water protections, as well as restoration of critical habitat and native wildlife. In addition, the Ohio River basin drives 35 percent of the nation’s waterborne commerce, supports recreational opportunities, agriculture, and an estimated $35 billion in commodities transport. 

“We strongly urge the President and the EPA Administrator to prioritize the restoration of the Ohio River by taking action to reduce mercury and other toxic pollution; urban runoff and sewer overflows; agricultural nutrient runoff; pollution from acid mine drainage and emerging contaminants; as well as increasing impacts from climate change and invasive species, such as zebra mussels and Asian carp.”

The President’s visit coincides with an increase in national concern about the Ohio River. The National Wildlife Federation is set to vote on a resolution supporting the protection and restoration of the Ohio River during their 81st Annual Meeting later this week. The resolution also calls upon federal and state leaders to establish policy, legislation, regulation, appropriation of funds, enforcement and public education that will lead to improvements in Ohio River water and air quality.