Lake Erie Water Level Study. Main Report.

摘要

In 1977, the IJC (a permanent bilateral commission set up by Canada and the United States to oversee Canada - U.S. boundary water issues) established the Study Board to determine the possibilities for limited regulation of Lake Erie. The study came about mainly as a result of record high water levels on Lakes Erie, St. Clair, and Michigan-Huron in the early 1970's. The Report presents the types of control works required in the Niagara River at Buffalo, New York - Fort Erie, Ontario to carry out limited regulation, the costs of these works, and the economic and environmental interests affected. The possibilities of enlarging the St. Lawrence River are also presented since such measures would be required if Lake Erie were regulated. Limited regulation of Lake Erie would have the effect of lowering that lake's water levels and those of the lakes upstream. As a result, flood and erosion damages on those lakes would be somewhat reduced. Recreational beach interests would also experience some benefits. At the same time, however, commercial navigation, recreational boating, and hydroelectric power interests would experience losses. The effects of limited regulation of Lake Erie on the environmental interests would be generally adverse. (Author)