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Lake Erie Nutrients

To prevent harmful algal blooms and formation of low oxygen “dead zones” in Lake Erie, the U.S. and Canada are working in partnership to reduce the amount of phosphorus entering the lake.  

Map of Lake Erie and surrounding creeks, rivers, basins

About Annex 4 

The Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement Nutrients Annex (Annex 4) is a commitment between the U.S. and Canada to manage nutrients in the Great Lakes.

  • GLWQA commitments
  • Lake Erie targets
  • Binational Phosphorus Reduction Strategy
    Wetland aerial image in Region 5

    Domestic Action Plans

    Domestic Action Plans are the “road map” for phosphorus control efforts undertaken by states, provinces, and both federal governments.

    White rising bar chart on blue background with copy space. Business economic and money investment concept. Goal and success theme. 3D illustration rendering graphic design.

    Status and Progress

    The U.S. and Canada are tracking progress under the Domestic Action Plans to achieve water quality goals.  

    • Progress Reports 
    • Current Status 
    • Project Highlights 

    Lake Erie Water Quality

    Nutrient Conditions in Lake Erie

    • Overall Conditions 
    • 2017 - 2021 Binational Adaptive Management Evaluation for Lake Erie (pdf) (7MB)
    • Phosphorus Loads 
    • Harmful Algal Blooms 
    • Hypoxia 
    • Nuisance benthic algae 

    Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement (GLWQA)

    • GLWQA Home
      • What is GLWQA?
      • GLWQA Annexes
        • Annex 4: Lake Erie Nutrients
        • About Annex 4
        • Domestic Action Plans (DAPs)
        • U.S. Action Plan for Lake Erie
        • Status and Progress
        • Lake Erie Water Quality Data
    Contact Us About the GLWQA
    Contact Us About the GLWQA to ask a question, provide feedback, or report a problem.
    Last updated on December 11, 2024
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