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EPA reports trouble in river, stream conditions

Some of us already know that pollution rears its ugly head in many of our streams and rivers.

But now the Environmental Protection Agency has taken its well-intentioned mission a giant leap ahead.

The EPA released the results of a first comprehensive survey looking at the health of thousands of streams and rivers across the country, finding that more than half — 55 percent — are in poor condition for aquatic life.

“The health of our nation's rivers, lakes, bays and coastal waters depends on the vast network of streams where they begin, and this new science shows that America's streams and rivers are under significant pressure,” said Nancy Stoner, Office of Water Acting Assistant Administrator. “We must continue to invest in protecting and restoring our nation's streams and rivers as they are vital sources of our drinking water, provide many recreational opportunities, and play a critical role in the economy.”

Getting out: At first glance, healing information from the Outdoor Wire would seem a tad out of place #8212; but anything outdoorsy is welcomed. A publication out of South University revealed that spending more time outdoors improves your mental and physical health, speeds bodily healing and even helps fight cancer, osteoporosis and heart disease because of increased levels of vitamin D absorption.Chilling:If your refrigerator's ice maker has gone on the fritz, you may want to save yours the heartburn factor and head over to Bangs Lake. As of this writing, the slowly evaporating ice can still be had.The Fox Chain is not yet totally ice free.Fox River water levels are a tad high, with walleyes staging at the McHenry Dam.#376;Contact Mike Jackson at angler88@comcast.net, and catch his radio show 6-7 a.m. Sundays on WSBC 1240-AM and live-streamed at www.mikejacksonoutdoors.com.

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