[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.