FINAL REPORT - International Joint Commission

FINAL REPORT
Independent Review
Independently of the study, the International Joint Commission engaged the National Academy of Science,
in collaboration with the Royal Society of Canada, to perform an independent review of critical study
components. These consist of results regarding wetlands science and species at risk, the Flood Erosion
and Prediction System Model, the Integrated Ecological Response Model and the Shared Vision Model.
The overarching charge was to evaluate the appropriateness and sufficiency of the studies and models
used to inform decisions related to regulation plan options. The review, to the extent practicable, was also
performed to recommend possible actions related to the areas under consideration that the International
Joint Commission might consider for future implementation to improve water levels and flows management.
The science of the Study program, as represented in the reports and model documentation provided, was
reviewed by the committee in terms of the degree to which:
• the models and reports are sufficient and appropriate to evaluate the various alternatives and impacts
of changes in water levels and flows,
• the study(ies) reflect reasonable scientific methods, assumptions, and supported findings,
• the models sufficiently and appropriately integrate and display the key information needed for a
comprehensive evaluation and understanding of the trade-offs for selecting among the candidate
alternatives.
The National Academy of Science and Royal Society of Canada review panel report is published separately
(NAS and RSC, 2005).
12 Options for Managing Lake Ontario and St. Lawrence River Water Levels and Flows