Abstract

International Joint Commission; Canadian - US Hydrographic Data Harmonization- Status
Track: Water Resources
Authors: Michael Laitta, Karen Hanson, Dave Harvey, Conrad Wyrzykowski

The International Joint Commission, in coordination with Environment Canada, Natural Resources Canada, U.S. Geological Survey, Agriculture and Agri-Foods Canada has made substantial progress with the harmonization of the shared fundamental hydrographic datasets along the Canadian-U.S. interface. Phase I and II of this effort; the alignment and editing of sub drainage areas within the major Trans-boundary Basins and the first pass connection of the fundamental hydrographic layers is complete. In 2012, this effort will focus on the delineation and refinement of smaller drainage units within these now harmonized sub drainage areas as well as the development of bi national water quality and quantity applications. This presentation will touch upon the basic technical methods employed to facilitate the negotiation of bi national delineations, impacts to the federal stewarding agencies, and potential opportunities for sustainable regional based hydrologic applications.