Overview of Lake Superior Freeze Over
Lake Superior is the largest freshwater lake in the world, by area, and reaching depths of up to 400 meters. Since 2018 it has been known as “The Deepest Lake in the World”. During the winter months it is known to freeze over, with temperatures reaching below zero for long stretches of time. This past winter has been particularly cold across the entire Great Lakes region and has raised questions about the possibility of Lake Superior fully freezing over.
Scientific Evidence
Scientific evidence shows that the surface area of the lake did freeze this past winter, however the depth of the lake did not. Data collected by researchers at the Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL) reveal that this winter the fringes of Lake Superior reached below the freezing point of water on multiple occasions, with an ice coverage reported at up to 80% by mid-February. The majority of this ice coverage was concentrated in the shallower areas of the lake, while the deeper parts remain unaffected.
Experts at GLERL provide evidence that due to the complex depths and geology of Lake Superior, it is highly unlikely that the full lake will ever freeze over. The lake current plays a huge role in the freeze over process, with warm water from the depths of the lake rising up to the surface and melting the ice that has formed. This creates a cycle of freezing and melting, that ensures the lake does not fully freeze over.
Climate Change Effects on Lake Superior
The effects of climate change are visible in Lake Superior, with scientists from GLERL reporting that the lake is warming up at a much faster rate than predicted. As the climate steadily gets warmer, the lake could potentially continue to stay mostly unfrozen. In the future, it is possible that warmer winter temperatures could cause the lake to remain free of ice all year round. This raises questions of sustainability, as the lake is seen to be increasingly vulnerable to environmental pollutants such as plastic.
Lake Superior Tourism
As Lake Superior is seen as one of the main attractions in the Great Lakes region, it is important to consider its impact on tourism. The lack of ice on the lake this winter has led to higher tourism revenues, as visitors are able to explore the lake without worrying about the cold weather. It is estimated that this winter alone, Lake Superior has seen an increase of up to 20% in the number of visitors, with many of them coming to the region just to experience the great outdoors.
Businesses that rely on the tourism of Lake Superior are also benefiting from the warmer winter temperatures, with many small hotels and restaurants reporting higher profits. This could be attributed to the fact that visitors are able to explore the lake for longer periods of time, given the warmer temperatures.
Environmental Implications of a Frozen Lake Superior
A frozen Lake Superior is often seen as a symbol of strength and resilience, however there are also environmental implications to consider. A frozen lake is far more vulnerable to environmental pollutants due to the lack of water flow. In addition, pollutants that have already been deposited in the lake cannot be removed as easily when the lake is frozen.
Furthermore, the ice forms an insulating layer, causing the lake water to remain warmer than it would if it was unfrozen. This can have an adverse effect on the local flora and fauna, as animals that rely on cold water to survive must adjust to the increased temperatures.
Impact on the Local Economy
Lake Superior is a popular destination for anglers, due to its wide variety of fish species. When the lake is frozen, anglers are unable to access the deepest parts of the lake, which can negatively affect their catches. This has a direct impact on the local economy, as anglers are unable to sell their fish and make a living.
Moreover, a frozen lake also affects recreational activities and sports, as there is less room for boats to maneuver, as well as ice fishing tournaments and festivals to be organized. This results in a significant financial loss for the local communities that rely on the tourism of Lake Superior.
The Future of Lake Superior
Given the effects of climate change and global warming, it is likely that Lake Superior will continue to be warmer in the winter months. This could result in a steady decline of the lake freezing over, which could have major implications for the entire Great Lakes region. To address this, organizations such as GLERL are providing data and working with local communities to encourage sustainable and environmentally-friendly practices that can help protect the lake over time.
Measures Taken to Prevent Further Global Warming
As part of the effort to reduce global warming, various organizations are encouraging communities to take certain measures to conserve energy and reduce emissions. This includes anything from installing solar panels and energy-efficient appliances, to investing in renewable sources of energy such as wind and solar.
In addition, organizations such as GLERL are raising awareness of the issue and providing resources to help people make informed decisions about their energy usage. This is seen to be beneficial in the efforts to reduce global warming and protect Lake Superior.
Sensitizing the public about Lake Superior
Various efforts are also being made to raise awareness of the importance of preserving Lake Superior. Organizations such as GLERL are engaging with local communities to educate them about the importance of keeping the lake clean and safe. This is done through outreach programs that focus on the developing an understanding of the ecological value of the lake, as well as the dangers posed by global warming.
Moreover, GLERL is leading the charge in organizing large-scale clean up initiatives on Lake Superior, bringing together various stakeholders to help preserve the lake. These efforts have resulted in the mobilization of hundreds of volunteers who have donated their time and energy to this cause.
Conservation Efforts to protect Lake Superior
Organizations such as GLERL are actively advocating for conservation measures to protect and keep Lake Superior clean. This includes increasing funding for research and monitoring, as well as advocating for legislation that can help reduce environmental pollution in the area. GLERL is also leading the way in promoting sustainable fishing practices, ensuring that the lake is kept safe for future generations.
In addition, GLERL is also working to create a network of stakeholders and community organizations, who can work together to protect and preserve the lake. By creating a larger network of people dedicated to this cause, GLERL is hoping to ensure that the lake remains safe and clean for many years to come.
