Overview

The International Joint Commission prevents and resolves disputes between the United States of America and Canada under the 1909 Boundary Waters Treaty and pursues the common good of both countries as an independent and objective advisor to the two governments.

In particular, the Commission rules upon applications for approval of projects affecting boundary or transboundary waters and may regulate the operation of these projects; it assists the two countries in the protection of the transboundary environment, including the implementation of the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement and the improvement of transboundary air quality; and it alerts the governments to emerging issues along the boundary that may give rise to bilateral disputes.The 1909 Boundary Waters Treaty established the Commission, which has six members. Three are appointed by the President of the United States, with the advice and approval of the Senate, and three are appointed by the Governor in Council of Canada, on the advice of the Prime Minister. The Commissioners must follow the Treaty as they try to prevent or resolve disputes. They must act impartially, in reviewing problems and deciding on issues, rather than representing the views of their respective governments. 

The Commission has set up more than 20 boards, made up of experts from the United States and Canada, to help it carry out its responsibilities. Canada and the United States created the International Joint Commission because they recognized that each country is affected by the other's actions in lake and river systems along the border. The two countries cooperate to manage these waters wisely and to protect them for the benefit of today's citizens and future generations.

Adaptation Work:

Transboundary Waters

The International Joint Commission has responsibilities for regulating water levels and monitoring the water quality of rivers and lakes along the international border between Canada and the United States.

Water Levels and Flows

The IJC makes decisions on applications for projects, such as dams and diversions, that affect the natural level and flow of water across the boundary. Changing water levels can affect drinking water intakes, commercial shipping, hydroelectric power generation, agriculture, shoreline property, recreation, fisheries, wildlife, wetlands and other interests.

Water Quality

In the Boundary Waters Treaty, Canada and the United States agreed that neither country will pollute boundary waters, or waters that flow across the boundary, to an extent that would cause injury to health or property in the other country. To support the governments in meeting their treaty commitments, the IJC has two potential roles: The governments may ask the IJC to investigate or monitor water quality in lakes and rivers along the common border. The IJC may alert the governments to concerns with water quality of the boundary and transboundary waters.

Air Quality

Signed in 1991, The Canada-United States Air Quality Agreement committed the two countries to significantly reducing emissions of pollutants that cause acid rain and contribute to smog. It also set up an Air Quality Committee to report every two years on progress. Under the agreement, the IJC invites public comment every two years and provides a synthesis of comments to the governments of Canada and the United States to assist them with the implementation of the Agreement.

International Watersheds Initiative

IWI is a science-based approach to addressing local concern such as fish habitat, pollution, and low and high water flows. Historically, IJC boards have focused on regulating water levels or flows or on monitoring water quality. IWI boards are different. They work closely with local citizenry to recognize and understand the complex interrelationships of water quantity, water quality and land use issues within a watershed. IWI boards are in a partnership with governments. The IJC has seen how IWI can catalyze effective local efforts to solve water related issues and achieve the desired outcomes for communities on both sides of the border.