The Skagit Environmental Endowment Fund and Commission (SEEC) is a Canadian nonprofit organization established to support the preservation and protection of the natural environment, cultural resources, and compatible recreational opportunities in the Skagit River basin. It operates as a transboundary commission formed under an agreement between the Province of British Columbia and the City of Seattle, created by the Ross Lake/Seven Mile Reservoir Treaty signed in 1984 between Canada and the United States.

Mandate and Purpose

The primary objectives of SEEC are to conserve and protect wilderness and wildlife habitat, enhance recreational opportunities, and manage the elimination of mineral and timber rights consistent with these conservation and recreation goals within the Skagit River drainage upstream of the Ross Dam, covering areas in both Washington State and British Columbia. The Commission’s responsibilities also include conducting studies and planning for the development of hiking trails, footbridges, interpretive displays, and other related infrastructure to promote sustainable recreational use.

Structure and Governance

The Commission governs the Endowment Fund, which finances its conservation and recreational projects. It consists of 16 members—eight appointed by the Premier of British Columbia representing Canada, and eight appointed by the Mayor of Seattle representing the United States. Members serve staggered four-year terms. This binational structure facilitates collaboration on managing the Upper Skagit watershed across the Canada–US border.

Operations and Activities

SEEC oversees the strategic direction and stewardship of the Endowment Fund, ensuring expenditures prioritize projects within or connected to the Upper Skagit watershed, with a focus on balancing ecological preservation and compatible public use. The Fund's investment policy guides the management of its financial assets to maintain long-term sustainability and support consistent funding of conservation projects.

Legal Status

SEEC is established as a nonprofit, tax-exempt entity under the treaty provisions. Its governance framework and operational mandate are detailed in appendices to the original treaty agreement, ensuring transparency and accountability in its binational conservation efforts.

This organization exemplifies international cooperation in environmental protection, contributing to the long-term conservation of the Skagit River basin’s natural and cultural heritage through strategic investment and cross-border governance.

[Information synthesized from the Skagit Environmental Endowment Commission’s foundational documents and public treaty descriptions][3][4][5]