The International Joint Commission (IJC) is seeking public comment on the recently released Draft 2025 Review of the International Joint Commission’s Report on the “Protection of the Waters of the Great Lakes”. The report updates the IJC’s analysis of Great Lakes stresses from consumption, diversion, and removal of water from the Great Lakes.
The IJC issued its first report with recommendations on the Protection of the Waters of the Great Lakes in 2000, following a formal request, or “reference” from the governments of Canada and the U.S.
A three-year review was released in 2004, and a 10-year review in 2015. The analysis in the draft 2025 report is informed by interviews with over 30 key stakeholders and subject-matter experts.
This draft report provides a preliminary evaluation of the relevance and implementation status of recommendations issued by the IJC in a 2015 report. It also proposes new recommendations for the IJC to submit to governments. Among the recommendations:
- Before further pursuing AI and data center projects for siting within their boundaries, the states and provinces should consult with experts how these growing water uses impact the Great Lakes basin.
- The Great Lakes states and provinces should convene a panel of legal experts to ascertain the significance and potential of the public trust doctrine to assist in protection of the waters of the Great Lakes while allowing for a public comment period.
- The Great Lakes states and provinces should increase collaboration with Indigenous Nations in decision making on major water withdrawals and diversions.
A public webinar will be held on August 14 from 12pm-1pm (EDT) to provide an overview of the preliminary findings of the draft report and record public comments. Comments can also be provided in writing to the IJC.
The comment period is open until August 31, 2025.
