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JESSE L. JACKSON, JR.

COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS

2ND DISTRICT, ILLINOIS

SUBCOMMITTEES:

Tongrtss of Or Unita

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III;

asifington,

EIT 213515-1311

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LABOR-HEALTH AND

HUMAN SERVICES-EDUCATION

FOREIGN OPERATIONS, EXPORT FINANCING

AND RELATED PROGRAMS

May 13, 2008

Mr. John Therriault, Assistant Clerk

Illinois Pollution Control Board

100 West Randolph Street, Suite 11-500

Chicago, Illinois 60601

RE: Rule Making R08-009

Dear Illinois Pollution Control Board:

RECEIVEDCLERK'S

OFFICE

MAY 1

6008

STATE OF

ILLINOIS

Pollution Control Board

I write to express my support for the recommended water quality standard improvements

proposed by the Illinois EPA for the Chicago Area Waterways (CAWS) and Lower Des Plaines

River. Indeed, these changes -- which would decrease bacteria and increase oxygen contents --

are long overdue.

Over the years, the water quality within the Chicago and Calumet Rivers watersheds, once full of

raw sewage and industrial filth, has greatly improved. The rivers are now home to 70 species of

fish, including large-mouth bass, bluegill and yellow perch. As a result, Chicago and several

suburbs, including many in the 2nd Congressional district, have spent millions in enhancing river

access for boating, crewing and fishing. In fact, many communities now include waterfront

master plans that call for recreational, natural and economic investment along the rivers.

It has been more than 20 years since the EPA reviewed quality standards for these watersheds.

Thus, we now have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to adopt new and necessary

environmental controls for water quality in this important region of the State.

applaud the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District for its past achievements in improving

water quality. Moving forward, it is essential that we continue to protect and improve this

valued and shared resource.

Sincerely,

Jesse L. Jackson, Jr.

Member of Congress

2419 RAYBURN HOUSE OFFICE BUILDING

2120 EAST 71ST STREET

17926 SOUTH HALSTED

WASHINGTON, DC 20515-1302

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