For Release: February 22, 2001
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

COSTELLO TO CO-CHAIR THE UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER TASK FORCE

Washington - U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) today announced that he will serve as one of the Democratic co-chairs of the Upper Mississippi River Task Force, a bipartisan group focused on economic, environmental, and recreational issues of importance to the Upper Mississippi River Basin. Created in 1998, the Task Force is made up of members from Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, and Missouri. The other co-chairs are Ron Kind (D-WI), James Leach (R-IA), and Gil Gutknecht (R-MN).

"I am pleased to take a leadership position with the Upper Mississippi River Task Force. This is a natural fit for me given the 12th District's strategic location at the midpoint of the river and the river's great importance to the local and national economy," Costello said.

The Task Force pays particular attention to the programs of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, including the Environmental Management Program, as well as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the U.S. Geological Survey, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Key issues for the 107th Congress include conservation, appropriations for programs that affect the area, and the reauthorization of the Farm Bill.

Costello is also ranking member of the Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management Subcommittee of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. The Subcommittee has jurisdiction over the Delta Regional Authority, giving Costello influence over matters affecting the length of the Mississippi River.

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