When the Commission was created in 1936, the tri-state waters were in terrible condition. World renown shellfish beds were condemned; shorelines were littered with debris, and rotting carcases of farm animals and fish greeted newcomers to the great Melting Pot. Minimal industrial regulation caused local rivers and streams to be unusable; even transportation was hindered by floating debris from collapsing piers and derelict vessels. These activities put ever-increasing demands and stresses on the coastal systems.

Over 100 years ago, the metropolitan waterways were in a deplorable state. Water quality was at an extreme low due to industrial pollution and raw sewage. The world’s most productive oyster and clam beds were condemned, finfish stocks were depleted and tasted like “oil”, health agencies were inundated with patients suffering from dozens of different types of waterbourne diseases from using recreational waters — many never to reopen in the 20th century — and the air was clogged with coal dust.

Following the recommendation of the Tri-State Treaty Commission, the Tri-State Compact establishing the District and the Commission was enacted in 1936, with the Consent of Congress. The Commission has an overall responsibility of protecting the environment by viewing the District from a regional, impartial and unbiased perspective. Whereas each state deals with issues within its own borders, the Commission can and does cross state lines. The Commission strives to harmonize water quality standards, regulations and requirements throughout its District.

During these times of adversity, extraordinary circumstances put a huge demand on the lives of millions of citizens throughout the world. Political upheaval, global warming, economic uncertainty and homeland security are day-to-day challenges to everyone. This past year was no different. In spite of this, IEC and others must continually strive to maintain and improve the environmental integrity of the tri-state New York-New Jersey-Connecticut Region.

In commemoration of the 30th anniversary of the Clean Water Act, 2002 has been
proclaimed as the Year of Clean Water. This Act set a national goal to restore
and maintain the physical, chemical, and biological integrity of the waters of the
United States. This year is also the 66th anniversary of an agency with a
mandate to protect this tri-state region’s waters long before the creation of state
and national environmental entities, and before national standards were
established. The Commission actively participated in activities related to the

Like all Americans, we share in America’s sorrow resulting from the terrorist attacks in New
York City, Washington, D.C. and Pennsylvania. The Commission is proud to be a part of a nation
that is demonstrating tremendous unity and determination as we return to work, resume our travels
and carry on with our day-to-day lives. As always, we must adapt to adverse conditions, but rely
on good science and sound engineering to maintain and rebuild. The Metropolitan Area is truly a

It was just over 100 years ago that water quality in this region was at a low point due to
industrial pollution and raw sewage. The most productive oyster and clam beds in the world were
condemned, finfish stocks were depleted and tasted like “oil”, health agencies were inundated with
patients suffering from dozens of different types of waterborne diseases from using recreational
waters, and the air was filled with coal dust. This was a time when interstate conflicts arose regarding

In uncertain times marked by economic stress on state and national levels, the nation has focused on environmental concerns as a vital area where commitments must be met and we as guardians must not falter. Environmental protection has direct social, economic and health consequences. The Interstate Environmental Commission (IEC) remains the guardian of the waters of the tri-state District and we continue to do more with less.

Please download report to get details:

Please download report to get details: