THE GREAT LAKES COMMISSION The Great Lakes Commission is an eight-state compact agency that guides, protects and advances the common interests of its membership in areas of regional environmental quality, resource management and economic development. Established in 1955 by the Great Lakes Basin Compact and founded in state and federal law, the Commission is comprised of state officials, legislators and governors' appointees. Its research, policy and advocacy activities are unique to the region and dedicated to securing a strong economy, clean environment and high quality of life for the Great Lake region and its citizenry.