The Lakeshore
Lake Superior is the largest, deepest and coldest of the Great Lakes. It spans over 20,000 square miles, contains 10% of the Earth’s surface freshwater and has an average depth of 460 feet.
Located on the Canadian-U.S. border, the lake provides locals and tourists alike a beautiful view of the longest freshwater coastline in the world. Its forests and rocky shoreline can only be accessed by car, boat or foot. The nearest towns are spread out along the shore, each offering unique experiences and attractions. With so many ways to explore the lake, it makes it easier to understand why it is such an important part of the Great Lakes ecosystem.
Can You Drink The Water?
Mainly due to the vast size and depth of Lake Superior, its water quality is considered to be amongst the best of the Great Lakes. As such, it is often assumed that the water is safe to drink, but is this really the case?
The answer is yes, Lake Superior water is safe to drink. It is routinely tested for a variety of substances. This testing ensures that the water is safe for consumption and that it contains safe levels of bacteria, chemicals and other contaminants.
However, there are certain limitations to drinking this water. While the water from the lake is generally safe to drink, it may not always be the most pleasant experience. The lake’s cold temperatures and the presence of smaller fish such as trout or herring can make the taste a bit off-putting.
Another factor to consider is that the lake’s waters can be quite polluted at times. This is due to the significant amount of pollutants that enter the lake from both human and industrial sources. As such, it is important to be aware of the potential risks of drinking water that may have been contaminated.
Environmental Impact
In addition to affecting water quality, pollutants can also have a significant impact on the health of Lake Superior’s wildlife. Pollutants and toxins can disrupt the delicate balance of the lake’s aquatic ecosystem, causing long-term damage and potentially even contributing to the extinction of some species.
Unfortunately, a number of factors have contributed to the decline in the health of the lake, including the introduction of invasive species. Invasive species such as zebra and quagga mussels can cause a decrease in the lake’s oxygen levels, leading to an overall decline in the health of the lake.
The lake’s environmental health is also impacted by runoff from cities and agricultural areas. Runoff from nearby cities can contain pesticides, fertilizers and other chemicals that can disrupt the lake’s delicate balance. This can lead to an increase in algae blooms and the presence of harmful bacteria in the lake’s waters.
Protecting The Lake
In order to protect the health of Lake Superior, it is important for individuals to take action. This can include reducing the amount of garbage and chemicals that are disposed of in the lake, as well as reducing the use of fertilizers and pesticides near the lake.
It is also important to understand the local regulations and to abide by them when fishing or boating in the lake. There are restrictions in place that prohibit the introduction of non-native species and limit the amount of pollutants discharged into the lake.
Individuals can also help protect the lake by supporting local initiatives that aim to restore and improve the lake’s health. This can include joining local organizations such as Friends of Lake Superior or participating in beach cleanups.
Conclusion
The health of Lake Superior is of paramount importance for the Great Lakes ecosystem. While it is safe to drink the water, it is important to understand the risks and to adhere to environmental regulations when fishing or boating in the lake. Additionally, individuals can help protect the lake by reducing the amount of pollutants that are disposed of in the lake and by supporting local initiatives that work to restore and improve its health.
