Position Statement on the Future of Great Lakes Remedial Action Plans

In light of the fact that the Great Lakes Water Quality Board (WQB) was the originator of RAPs, that the WQB is the principal advisor to the International Joint Commission (IJC) on water quality matters, that the WQB is charged with assessing the adequacy and effectiveness of Great Lakes programs, and in response to concern for recent government cutbacks in RAP funding, the WQB has prepared this position statement on the future of RAPs based on its practical experiences over the last 11 years. This WQB position statement will review the history of RAPs, address current RAP funding concerns, and provide practical advice on sustaining RAP processes and ensuring continued progress toward the goal of restoring all uses in Areas of Concern.