Public Engagement

Whenever the International Joint Commission (IJC) is asked to make a decision about a dam or other structure in a river or a lake, it asks for views from the public. The IJC also holds public meetings every three years to discuss progress in cleaning up the Great Lakes, and solicits comments from the public on biennial progress reports on the Canada-United States Air Quality Agreement. 

Become involved in the work of the IJC by participating in public consultations and giving your perspective on decisions before the IJC.  Before the IJC makes decisions or recommendations, views of all interested parties are considered. The IJC welcomes comments submitted in writing at any time.  You are invited to share your perspective on general and specific matters under consideration at public meetings and information sessions, formal public hearings, webinars, and in response to information posted on IJC.org. The IJC also sponsors conferences, meetings and round table discussions in which members of the public and representatives of community groups and other organizations can take part. The IJC also involves the public by appointing stakeholders to its boards and convening advisory groups.

Recent Public Consultations

Public Consultation: Feedback on Potential Changes to Rainy Lake Rule Curves

Date
-

Status

Closed
The Water Levels Committee (WLC) of the International Rainy-Lake of the Woods Watershed Board (IRLWWB) has employed Temporary Orders for the past three years (2023 to 2025) as approved by the International Joint Commission (IJC). These Temporary Orders allowed the WLC to test the use and...

Upcoming Events

Great Lakes Perspectives Broadcast

Date
-
Canada and the United States share more than a border, they share a responsibility to protect our shared waters: the Great Lakes. Join us February 19th at 6 PM EST for the International Joint Commission's Great Lakes Perspectives broadcast. Hear from academics, advocates, and community members and...

Public Input Webinar: Perspectives on Working with Great Lakes Fish

Date
-
Canada and the United States work together through the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement to keep the Great Lakes clean and healthy. Every three years, the International Joint Commission (IJC) assesses progress towards the Agreement’s goals for drinkable, fishable, swimmable Great Lakes. Share your...

Public Input Webinar: Perspectives on Working with Algal Blooms in the Great Lakes

Date
-
Canada and the United States work together through the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement to keep the Great Lakes clean and healthy. Every three years, the International Joint Commission (IJC) assesses progress towards the Agreement’s goals for drinkable, fishable, swimmable Great Lakes. Share your...

Public Input Webinar: Perspectives on Engaging with the Great Lakes Coasts

Date
-
Public Input Webinar Series: register at: us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_oWFdJH7HQB6NKvDiz-Y06w February 24, 6 pm ET: Perspectives on Working with Great Lakes Fish February 25, 11:30 am ET: Perspectives on Working with Algal Blooms in the Great Lakes March 11, 11:30 am ET: Perspectives on...

Public Input Webinar: Perspectives on Restoration in Great Lakes Communities

Date
-
Canada and the United States work together through the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement to keep the Great Lakes clean and healthy. Every three years, the International Joint Commission (IJC) assesses progress towards the Agreement’s goals for drinkable, fishable, swimmable Great Lakes. Share your...