Foreword.

The article discusses the historical development of the 'Ecosystem Approach' in the Great Laurentian River Basin, focusing on the efforts of the Aquatic Ecosystem Health and Management Society (AEHMS) and the International Joint Commission (IJC). It highlights key scientific references and collaborations that have shaped the approach over the past decades. The text also delves into the cultural and ethical implications of ecosystem management, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts and the application of scientific pragmatism in addressing environmental challenges. The author reflects on personal experiences and connections to the broader context of ecosystem health and management. [Extracted from the article]