ORSANCO is an interstate commission representing eight states and the federal government. Member states include Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia.
ORSANCO operates programs to improve water quality in the Ohio River and its tributaries, including setting wastewater discharge standards; performing biological assessments; monitoring the chemical and physical properties of the waterways, and conducting special surveys and studies.
ORSANCO also coordinates emergency response activities for spills or accidental discharges to the river, and promotes public participation in programs, such as the Ohio River Sweep.