Resolution: Enhanced Research on the "Freshwater Inland Seas"
Adopted on April 17, 2003

Whereas, the Great Lakes and other large lakes of the world are vitally important as a source of sustenance, a critical component of ecological systems, a factor of production, a means of transport and, more generally, a basis for environmental health, economic prosperity and quality of life; and

Whereas, these large lake systems are ideal sites to advance basic understanding of ecosystem dynamics and, in so doing, have broad applications for scientific inquiry and resource management; and

Whereas, large lake systems worldwide have seen little sustained or systematic study of basic processes compared to the level of basic research activity focused on oceans; and

Whereas, this problem is particularly acute in the United States, where Great Lakes-focused research is inadequately supported relative to ocean research despite the Great Lakes standing in federal law as the nation's fourth seacoast; and

Whereas, a concerted effort has been made by the Great Lakes Commission and other parties to promote equity in research among the world's large lakes and oceans through the U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy, cooperation with the International Lakes Environment Committee, NOAA-sponsored workshops, Congressional testimony and other means; and

Whereas, a "Science of Freshwater Inland Seas" conference co-sponsored in July 2002 by the National Science Foundation and the University of Minnesota confirmed the inadequacy of large lakes research and identified gaps in knowledge and opportunities for research.

Therefore, be it resolved, that the Great Lakes Commission urges the Congress, the National Science Foundation, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and other relevant federal agencies and funding sources to fully recognize the stature of the Great Lakes as freshwater inland seas; and

Be it Further resolved, that the Great Lakes Commission calls upon these entities to place additional focus on, and funding for, the development and pursuit of Great Lakes ecosystem research in the interest of strengthening resource management, training scientists, and advancing restoration and protection efforts; and

Be it finally resolved, that the Great Lakes Commission reaffirms its commitment to an enhanced role at the international level to elevate the profile of the Great Lakes within the global large lakes and oceans community.

Unanimously adopted by the Great Lakes Commission at its 2003 Semiannual Meeting in Indianapolis, Indiana, April 17, 2003.