Vermont Public Radio reports that Vermont's Clean and Clear program has spent $85 million on improving Lake Champlain's water quality but "virtually zero" progress has been made. Indeed, the lake is plagued by toxic blue green algae blooms, and "decades of research shows that much of the lake is not improving [and] some of it is getting worse." Notably, the Lake's water quality is important for the tourism economy, public health, and "good government."
Tourism
Currently, "thousands of visitors head to the lake each summer" and more are expected next year for the 400th anniversary celebration of Samuel de Champlain's voyage of exploration.
Public Health
"Blue green algae produce a poison, so swimming near the blooms is dangerous for people and animals. When the blooms are bad, beaches are closed and resorts are forced to warn people out of the water."
Good Government
Finally, "there's a good government issue as well. Taxpayers want programs that work. But a recent independent audit of the state's Clean and Clear program said despite the millions of dollars spent, there's little progress to date."