The Delaware River Basin Compact

The Delaware River Basin Compact is a legal agreement established in 1961 among four U.S. states—New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware—and the federal government. Its purpose is to manage and protect the water resources of the Delaware River Basin, which affects millions of people and ecosystems. The Compact establishes a governing body, called the Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC), to oversee water usage, conservation efforts, flood control, and to resolve disputes. This collaboration aims to balance water supply needs with environmental protection for the benefit of both communities and the river’s health.