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Partnering for Sustainability – Success Stories

Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP) – as presented by William Howland, Manager

The Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP) is run through partnerships between local governments, government agencies from New York, Vermont, and Quebec, private organizations, local communities, and individuals. Its purpose is to coordinate and fund efforts that benefit the Lake Champlain Basin's water quality, fisheries, wetlands, wildlife, recreation, and cultural resources.

The LCBP began in 1990 with the Lake Champlain Special Designation Act that was sponsored by Senators from New York and Vermont. The Act’s goal was to create a comprehensive management plan for the Lake, in coordination with citizens and local, state, and federal governments and agencies. In 1996, the plan “Opportunities for Action” was signed, which is now updated every 5 years. A 1988 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Quebec, New York and Vermont established citizen advisory committees in each jurisdiction.

The four highest priorities of the plan are to:

Reduce toxic contamination
Reduce phosphorus inputs
Minimize risk to human health from water hazards
Control introduction, spread and impact of non–native nuisance species

Citizens are largely involved through advisory committees that inform the Lake Champlain Steering Committee. Professionals give advice and are involved through a technical advisory committee that reports to the steering committee. The organization operates by consensus. The LCBP often implements initiatives through small grants that it gives to local groups and then administers.

Partnership Tips for multi-jurisdictional regions forming partnerships:

Continuous funding from all levels of government is important to keep projects running. The continuity in the Lake Champlain Basin comes from states' mandates to reduce the phosphorus level. At least two times a year there is a 2-day Steering Committee meeting to address Lake issues in-depth and foster personal connections between key players. There is also absolute commitment from US senators to keep the program going.

Learn more about the Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP)

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