RAP 101

What exactly is a RAP? How did we get here? Take a dive into our RAP 101 series, a quick history that the RAP from A to Z.

WHAT’S A

RAP?

A Remedial Action Plan (RAP) is a strategy for each Area of Concern (AOC) to identify environmental issues and their sources, set clear goals for restoration, and implement and monitor restoration efforts. The goal of the RAP is to guide restoration efforts to restore Beneficial Use Impairments (BUIs) and ultimately remove the area from the list of AOCs.

WHAT’S AN

AOC?

An Area of Concern (AOC) is a designated location within the Great Lakes basin where human activities, such as historical industries, have negatively affected the quality of the environment. These activities caused pollution, habitat loss, and other issues which impacted water quality and ecosystem health.

WHAT’S THE

GLWQA?

The Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement (GLWQA) was first signed by the United States and Canada in 1972. It aims to protect and restore the ecological health of the Great Lakes by addressing pollution, habitat degradation, invasive species, and other threats to water quality.

WHAT’S THE

COA?

The Canada Ontario Agreement (COA) was signed in 1971. The Agreement outlines how the governments of Canada and Ontario will cooperate and coordinate their efforts to restore, protect, and conserve the Great Lakes ecosystem.

WHAT’S THE 

IJC?

The International Joint Commission (IJC), established by the Boundary Waters Treaty of 1909 between the United States and Canada, addresses and prevents disputes related to shared waters along their international boundary.

WHAT’S THE

BWT?

The Boundary Waters Treaty (BWT) of 1909 is an agreement between the United States and Canada. It conducts water quality studies, provides recommendations on water quantity and quality, and promotes sustainable management of transboundary waters.