Resolution: Maintaining and Enhancing the Great Lakes Water Level Observation Network
Adopted on October 3, 2003

Whereas, fluctuating water levels are a reality in the Great Lakes St. Lawrence system, and occur on a short-term, seasonal, and long-term basis; and

Whereas, an understanding of those fluctuations, and the status of water levels at any given time, is of overriding interest to commercial and recreational vessel operators as well as resource managers, scientists and public officials, among others; and

Whereas, this need is particularly pronounced at this time of historically low water levels; and

Whereas, the Great Lakes Water Level Observation Network of 49 stations has, until recently, been largely neglected due to inadequate federal funding for maintenance; and

Whereas, the Great Lakes Commission has successfully coordinated, in recent years, vocal regional support for the network that has resulted in funding for much- needed maintenance and enhancement, including the availability of real-time lake level monitoring and reporting capabilities accessible to all interested parties; and

Whereas, stable funding over the long term is needed to complete planned network repairs and upgrades, and to assure the continued real time delivery of reliable, high quality data; and

Whereas, the Hydrographic Services Improvement Act of 1998 established a federal framework to implement new technologies and modernize programs, including water level gauge stations in the Great Lakes basin; and

Whereas, the U.S. Congress is presently considering H.R. 958, a bill to amend the 1998 Act to specifically authorize funds of $2.0 million annually for the Great Lakes Water Level Observation Network administered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration; and

Whereas, support for such a program is fully consistent with the Commission's goal of "ensuring the sustainable use of our water resources" as embodied in the Great Lakes Program to Ensure Environmental and Economic Prosperity.

Therefore, Be It Resolved, that the Great Lakes Commission urges the Congress to enact H.R. 958, the Hydrographic Services Amendments of 2003, to provide $2.0 million in annual funding for the maintenance and enhancement of the Great Lakes Water Level Observation Network.

Unanimously adopted by the Great Lakes Commission at its 2003 Annual Meeting in Chicago, Illinois, October 3, 2003.