Senators Say Lake Champlain Gauges Funded

Senators from Vermont and New York say funding for flood gauges in the Lake Champlain basin has been secured.

Sens. Patrick Leahy of Vermont and Charles Schumer of New York say the funding will prevent the imminent shutdown of river and lake gauges in the basin.

The 18 U.S. Geological Survey gauges, nine in each state, proved their worth last year forecasting spring floods and Tropical Storm Irene. Before Irene hit, they enabled first responders, local and state officials, farmers and businesses to plan ahead of the rising flood waters.

Budget cuts this year threatened funding for the gauges, but Leahy and Schumer appealed to the Great Lakes Fishery Commission to use funds in its budget to keep the gauges going.