The Fund invests a one-time contribution of public funds and uses the investment income for two purposes: first, to test new regional actions that improve the health of the Great Lakes; and second, to provide resources for states to support their individual Great Lakes priorities.

[2] This followed recommendations made in the 1986 Toxic Substances Control Agreement, signed by the Great Lakes governors.

Rather, the Fund is meant to "enhance state and federal projects while preserving water quality more effectively.

Currently, the states of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, New York, and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania are members in good standing.

The governors are required to select individuals with regional perspective and seek a board of directors that is fully reflective of "the diverse community of State and regional interests (such as academics, environmentalists, business, labor, local communities and others) that use and benefit from the Great Lakes."