New Insights on Great Lakes Water Protection: Draft Report Released
The International Joint Commission (IJC) has released a draft report titled the “Protection of the Waters of the Great Lakes”, inviting public scrutiny and feedback. Established by a 1909 U.S.-Canada treaty, the IJC continues its mission to safeguard the Great Lakes, which hold a significant 20% of the world’s accessible fresh water.
In preparation for the final report, a public webinar is scheduled for August 14 at noon, offering a platform for discussion on the findings. Registration for this event is available here.
This thorough 50-page document examines the water management efforts of both Canada and the U.S., focusing on disputes and potential threats to the Great Lakes. It is part of the second ten-year review, a process designed to address governmental concerns about the consumption, diversion, and extraction of Great Lakes water.
Key Recommendations and Findings
The draft report proposes several measures for better stewardship of the Great Lakes. It underscores the need for improved data on water diversions and groundwater withdrawals within the basin. Enhanced climate modeling to predict future impacts on the lakes and tracking new industrial water demands, such as those from data centers, are also highlighted.
A significant recommendation calls for the recognition of Indigenous nations’ water rights, urging that they be acknowledged beyond mere stakeholders like industries or shipping entities.
For over four decades, the IJC has scrutinized water removal practices in the Great Lakes basin. Since the initial ten-year review in 2015, the report notes no new or increased water diversions were approved, with exceptions for Waukesha, Racine, and the Village of Somers in Wisconsin under the Great Lakes Compact.
Public Participation and Feedback
Stakeholders and the public are encouraged to submit their comments on the draft. The feedback period is open until August 31. Submissions can be made via email at PWGL@IJC.org or sent by mail to: Secretary, U.S. Section, International Joint Commission, 1717 H Street NW, Suite 835, Washington, D.C. 20006.
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