lana pollack, ijc
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The International Joint Commission
More than a century of cooperation protecting shared waters.
Lana Pollack United States Chair
The IJC, Boundary Waters Treaty and Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement
Chicago, January 23, 2013
Manistique Harbor, (Brian Callahan, Luxgnos Photography)
International Joint Commission: 1912 vs. 2012
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IJC Responsibilities under GLWQA
Assessment of Progress Report
Informing and Engaging the Public
Coordinating with other binational institutions
Specific roles detailed in Annexes
Coordinate water quantity work with parties regarding climate change
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IJC Structures under GLWQA Great Lakes Water Quality Board Reviews and assess progress of the Parties
Identifies emerging issues and makes recommendations to prevent and resolve complex challenges
Provides advice on roles of relevant jurisdictions
Great Lakes Science Advisory Board Provides advice on research and science
Must include research managers
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“We look forward … to produce an agreement that reflects our best knowledge and our unshakable commitment to preserving this vital natural resource.” Secretary of State Hillary Clinton
Great Lakes Regional Office Windsor Binational office
Provides support and technical assistance to advisory boards and the Commission
Engages and informs the public
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Water Quality Board Requirements
Balance between federal/state/provincial government and other members as described in Agreement Equal numbers from
Canada and U.S.
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IJC Water Quality Board Principles Inclusive, with substantive role for
the public
Effective delivery of assessment report, identification of emerging issues and recommendations regarding prevention from harm
High level government participation
Citizen leaders
Doesn’t duplicate GLEC
Engaged representatives of influence
Manageable size
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What’s Next
Membership structure for WQB and SAB
Plan of operations for boards
Opportunities for public input
IJC will seek nominations for board members.
Work on indicators for assessment of progress.
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1st Triennial Meeting in Milwaukee
Report on GLWQA implementation in Milwaukee at the first Triennial Meeting, to be held in conjunction with Great Lakes Week, September 9-12, 2013
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For more information, visit:
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www.ijc.org