In 1981, prompted by the discovery of high levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in harbor sediments, Waukegan Harbor was named as one of 43 Areas of Concern (AOC) on the Great Lakes by the International Joint Commission, U.S. EPA and IEPA.  The harbor was identified as an AOC using protocols developed by the United States and Canada under the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement of 1987.

The Waukegan Harbor Citizens Advisory Group (CAG) was formed by the Illinois EPA in 1990 to assume a leadership role in developing a remedial action plan (RAP) for the Waukegan Harbor AOC. The harbor at one time had the largest known concentrations of PCBs and PCB-contaminated sediments.

In addition to lessening contamination in the harbor, the CAG also worked with state and local government officials to deal with the open dumping of litter, garbage and tires, and more recently has been working to identify older commercial properties that are candidates for redevelopment.

The membership of the CAG is representative of diverse community interests.  CAG meetings provide a public forum for representatives from business, education, government, industry, environment, civic and recreation interests and the local citizenry to present and discuss their needs and concerns related to the decision-making process at the Waukegan Harbor AOC.  The CAG has spearheaded the development and implementation of a RAP .

In late October 1998, the Waukegan Harbor CAG was presented the State of the Lakes Ecosystem Conference "Success Story" award for their efforts to restore Waukegan Harbor's beneficial uses. The award says "The SOLEC 98 Steering Committee and the Canadian and the United States Consuls General extend their sincere congratulations to all those who have participated in the Waukegan Harbor environmental activities. Successful efforts such as yours serve to inspire and encourage others to assume responsibility and take an active role in the improvement of the Great Lakes ecosystem."

Technical support provided by Illinois DNR .