What We Do

We are working to restore lake sturgeon, lake trout and other native fish and their habitats in the Great Lakes, Finger Lakes, and the Allegheny River watersheds. We are also working to prevent the spread of invasive species invasive species
An invasive species is any plant or animal that has spread or been introduced into a new area where they are, or could, cause harm to the environment, economy, or human, animal, or plant health. Their unwelcome presence can destroy ecosystems and cost millions of dollars.

Learn more about invasive species
in these watersheds and the Erie Canal.

Our Projects and Research

Our office manages five primary programs: Native Species, Aquatic Invasive Species, Aquatic Habitat Restoration, and Outreach and Education. We work closely with state and local governments including the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, universities, and watershed groups like Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper. We also work with other federal agencies such as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Geological Service, and we work with tribes and nations. We monitor and study native Great Lakes fish, monitor and respond to new invasive species invasive species
An invasive species is any plant or animal that has spread or been introduced into a new area where they are, or could, cause harm to the environment, economy, or human, animal, or plant health. Their unwelcome presence can destroy ecosystems and cost millions of dollars.

Learn more about invasive species
, and restore habitat for fish and wildlife.  In addition to congressional appropriations, the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative also provides funding and technical support to carry out these conservation and restoration programs in Lake Erie and Lake Ontario.

Across the landscape, undersized, aging and improperly placed road-stream crossings create barriers in our rivers, streams, and tidal wetlands. These structures fragment aquatic habitat and prevent or greatly reduce the ability of aquatic species to move freely to migrate, feed, and reproduce. These poorly designed structures are also more prone to clogging, causing flooding, and washing out...