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Joint Canadian US Commission Recommends Change

Toronto- New proposals for changes in the way that water is released from Lake Ontario have many people up at arms.

The Joint International Commission has released new proposed water regulations that would affect the level of the water on Lake Ontario and the water levels in the St. Lawrence River. Many people believe that the regulations favor people who own property on the shores of Lake Ontario.

The water level on Lake Ontario can be regulated, to a larger degree that is not possible on some of the other great lakes. This is made possible by a large dam located at Cornwall, Ontario.

Changes were announced at a news conference on Sunday by members of the Joint Commission. The changes are attempts at a more environmentally friendly management approach than has been used in the past. Current rules in place since the 1950’s have led critics charge to the degradation of wetlands in and around the Lake Ontario area.

The joint commission findings are still preliminary, and the proposal is open for public review and comment for 90 days. There are hearings that will be held in June to make final water determinations.