Institutional Arrangements Regarding Binational Plans for the Remediation of Water Quality in Great Lakes' Connecting Channels

Abstract

The Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement of 1978 as amended calls for the Governments of Canada and the United States to develop and implement Remedial Action Plans in designated locations called Areas of Concern in order to restore and protect water quality in these locations. The binational connecting channels represent the most challenging institutional environment in which to develop and implement Remedial Action Plans. Institutional challenges in the connecting channel Areas of Concern have, in some instances, resulted in lengthy delays regarding the development and implementation of these plans. The authors have examined the various ongoing government activities focused on these Areas of Concern. Different institutional arrangements have evolved at the five connecting channels-St. Marys River, St. Clair River, Detroit River, Niagara River, and the St. Lawrence River. These arrangements are compared and the apparently more effective arrangements are highlighted. Recently, budget cuts have impacted governmental activities regarding remediation and resultant modifications in institutional arrangements are examined. Forecasted changes in governmental activities are also detailed. Based on effectiveness of existing institutional arrangements, recommendations for future governmental actions are provided.