How frequently does the International Joint Commission review water levels in Lake Ontario?

The International Joint Commission (IJC) reviews water levels in Lake Ontario every five years. This regular review cycle allows the IJC to assess various factors affecting water levels, including environmental conditions, climate changes, and the impact of water management practices. By conducting this review periodically, the Commission can make informed decisions regarding the management of lake levels to balance ecological health, flood prevention, and the needs of various stakeholders such as municipalities, industries, and recreational users.

This five-year timeframe is meant to provide sufficient data and insights into trends and changes in the lake’s ecosystem, ensuring that ongoing management strategies remain effective and responsive to both natural dynamics and human activities. More frequent reviews could lead to unnecessary fluctuations in policy based on short-term data, while longer intervals might not capture critical changes in the above factors that impact the lake.