Declaration of Partnership For the 21st Century

A Resolution, forming a partnership among interstate governmental organizations for water resources management.

Whereas, the management and protection of water and associated land resources for the long term is essential in maintaining a healthy environment, vibrant economy and a high quality of life; and

Whereas, water resources are shared through numerous basins both nationally and internationally, requiring collaborative approaches among a multitude of jurisdictions and organizations; and

Whereas, the roles of federal, state, provincial, regional and local governments have undergone rapid change in the area of water resources management, including an enhanced focus on the watershed approach; and

Whereas, interstate governmental organizations for water resources management have a long history of providing programs and services at the watershed level on an efficient and cost effective basis; and

Whereas, such organizations provide a forum for discussion and action on water policy issues at the federal, state, provincial, regional and international levels of government; and

Whereas, such organizations share an interest in strengthening and formalizing a partnership focusing on increasing their effectiveness in water resources management and enhancing their responsiveness to their membership and the public.

Therefore, Be It Resolved, that the undersigned organizations acting through the Interstate Council on Water Policy establish this Partnership for the 21st Century to develop a network for information sharing and coordination; to collaborate to the extent possible on special projects and studies that impact multiple jurisdictions; and to develop and recommend water resources policies on issues of a regional national, and international nature.

Signed this 15th day of September in the Year 1999, by the following interstate governmental organizations for water resources management and the Interstate Council on Water Policy:

Signed:

Great Lakes Commission

Upper Mississippi River Basin Association

Susquehanna River Basin Commission

Delaware River Basin Commission

Ohio River Basin Commission

Ohio River Valley Water Sanitation Commission

Interstate Commission on Potomac River Basin

New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission

Interstate Sanitation Commission

Missouri River Basin Association