    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1999, Book I)]
    [January 11, 1999]
    [Page 30]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the 90th Anniversary of the Canada-United States
    Boundary Waters Treaty
    January 11, 1999

        Today the United States and Canada mark the 90th anniversary of our
    Boundary Waters Treaty, signed on January 11, 1909. I salute the U.S.-
    Canada International Joint Commission (IJC), established to implement
    the treaty's terms, meeting today in Ottawa. For most of the 20th
    century, the IJC has served to prevent and resolve disputes over the use
    of shared waters and to provide independent advice on other
    transboundary environmental issues. The excellent relationships we have
    developed in dealing with the precious air and water resources we hold
    in trust together reflect the success of the Commission's efforts. From
    cleaning up the Great Lakes to managing water levels and flows in
    transboundary lakes and rivers, the Commission has come to serve as a
    global model for international cooperation in the realm of shared
    resources. More importantly, the IJC has improved the quality of life
    for Americans and Canadians while preserving for future generations the
    beauty and vitality of our lakes and rivers.
        Through its air quality monitoring and international watershed
    initiatives, the Commission is already confronting future environmental
    challenges along our border. I look forward to its continued success as
    the United States and Canada extend their partnership into the 21st
    century.