I grew up around a lake, and they hold personal significance in my heart. My fondest memories are framed by tranquil waters, slippery rocks, and the call of distant birds. This is why I feel a responsibility when it comes to preserving these natural treasures for future generations.

The situation in Onondaga County is distressing. Onondaga Lake has long been a site of severe pollution and habitat degradation. 165,000 pounds of mercury were dumped into its waters over the course of 40 years, along with a buildup of numerous other harmful pollutants like phosphorus and ammonia. These substances have scarred the lake's ecosystem, posing a profound risk to wildlife and humans alike. Although significant progress has been made towards restoring the lake's health, the fight is far from over.

Yet, in this challenging journey towards healing our beloved lake, we are confronted with a new hurdle. Plans are underway to construct the Inner Harbor Aquarium in Syracuse, with an anticipated opening in July 2026. Worryingly, funds allocated for this project have been drawn from the Onondaga Lake Restoration Fund. This decision undermines our ongoing efforts to rehabilitate the lake, diverting crucial resources away from vital conservation initiatives.

While the creation of an aquarium can hold educational value and foster a deeper appreciation for aquatic life, it must not come at the expense of an already struggling ecosystem. We urge the Inner Harbor Aquarium to replace the $2.5 million taken from the Onondaga Lake Restoration Fund and seek alternative sources of funding. If this is not a plausible goal, then the Inner Harbor Aquarium should pay it back within 1-2 years of its opening. 

By influencing this change, we can ensure that the aquarium's educational goals align with the broader commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability. It's crucial that the new facility not only showcases the wonders of aquatic life but also stands as a monument to responsible conservation practices.

Join me in demanding that the Inner Harbor Aquarium repay the funds diverted from Onondaga Lake's restoration. Together, we can protect the legacy of this cherished natural resource for future generations. Please sign this petition and help us keep the momentum of recovery and preservation going strong. Let’s be the voice for Onondaga Lake's continued restoration and a brighter, cleaner future.