Background Information
Lake Michigan is one of the five Great Lakes in the United States, located between the state of Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana and Michigan. The border between Illinois and Lake Michigan is actually on the west side of the lake. That is, while Illinois has land bordering Lake Michigan, technically it does not border the lake.
This is due to the fact that, when the original boundaries of the states were determined, surveyors noted the water line at low water mark. This created the official boundaries that we have today, and it excluded the actual body of the lake itself. So, while Illinois shares a border with Wisconsin, Indiana, and Michigan, it does not have a boarder with Lake Michigan.
Relevant Data and Expert Analysis
Statistically speaking, Lake Michigan is the second largest of all the Great Lakes, covering an area of just over 22,000 square miles. It spans a distance of 307 miles from east to west, and 118 miles from north to south. It has a mean depth of 279 feet, and a maximum depth of 923 feet.
This massive lake contains an estimated 850 cubic kilometers of fresh water. That is equivalent to roughly 54 trillion gallons, enough water to fill an estimated 1.5 million Olympic sized swimming pools.
Experts who study hydrology have long declared Lake Michigan a key player in the Great Lakes system. As the only lake completely within the United States and the least polluted of all the Great Lakes, it serves as an important source of fresh water for the many people, plants and animals in the surrounding region.
Insights and Analysis
The Lake Michigan basin and the surrounding border states are home to many unique and beautiful ecosystems. While Illinois does not border the lake, it still has access to much of its bounty.
The shoreline of Lake Michigan is home to many plant species, including various grasses, herbs, shrubs, and trees. It is also home to a wide variety of animal species, such as ducks, geese, hawks, eagles, and a host of other bird species. Aside from the birds, the lake also supports a diverse population of fish, including spring-spawning salmon, smelt, and alewives, as well as species such as walleye, perch and trout.
The lake also provides many recreational opportunities, with its beaches, boating, and sport fishing. It is also a popular destination for travelers looking to enjoy the Midwest’s natural beauty.
Economic Impact and Development
The economic impact of Lake Michigan is equally impressive. According to the Lake Michigan Fault Coalition, it generates more than $8 billion annually from various industries, including commercial and recreational fishing, manufacturing, shipping, tourism, and other sectors.
In addition to the economic benefits, the lake also provides a number of environmental services. It serves as a buffer from wind and waves, protecting the surrounding shoreline. It also supports an incredibly diverse ecosystem, one that helps to support the many animals and plants that populate the region.
Furthermore, it is an important source of drinking water for the cities, towns, and millions of people living in the region. The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning estimates that over 8.3 million people derive some or all of their drinking water from the lake.
Environmental Impacts and Protection
In spite of its importance, Lake Michigan is vulnerable to pollution, invasive species, and other environmental stresses. There has been much progress in recent decades, however, as increased regulation and conservation efforts are helping to protect it from further degradation.
The Great Lakes Restoration initiative is a particularly important program, as it works to restore and protect the lake from numerous environmental concerns. In 2015 the initiative began an effort to reduce the amount of phosphorus entering the lake. Phosphorus is a nutrient that can cause algal blooms and lead to other harmful conditions, including low oxygen and loss of fish habitat.
The program has so far been a success, as phosphorus levels have been reduced by close to 90 percent. This has allowed for the local fish population to rebound and has also enabled other species to move back in, bringing much needed balance to the system.
Recreation and Tourism
Though it is located in the midwestern United States, Lake Michigan is one of the most popular vacation spots in the country. People from all over the world flock to its shores to enjoy its stunning natural beauty, various recreational activities, and wonderful restaurants and attractions.
The lake offers a wide range of activities for visitors, from beach-going and swimming in the summer, to ice fishing and skiinb in the winter. There are also countless festivals throughout the year, from the famous Chicago Air and Water Show to the popular Milwaukee Irish Fest.
The resorts, hotels, and state parks surrounding the lake provide another kind of appeal. Whether its camping, boating, or simply lounging in the sun, visitors to Lake Michigan are sure to come away with a great experience.
State and Local Regulation
Though the federal government plays a large role in protecting Lake Michigan, state and local officials have stepped in to help as well. Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Michigan all have set laws and regulations governing the lake and its resources, and they have put several programs in place to help protect it, such as the Great Lakes Restoration initiative mentioned earlier.
These programs are essential for the long-term health of the lake and its surrounding environment, and they also help to ensure that the lake remains a viable source of clean water, economic development, and recreation for decades to come.
Role of Local Communities
Finally, it is important to recognize the role of local communities in protecting and preserving Lake Michigan. In addition to the programs enacted by state and federal governments, many grassroots initiatives have been created over the years to help safeguard the lake and its resources.
For instance, many communities have organized beach cleanups, with volunteers collecting garbage and debris that has accumulated on the shoreline. Other programs help to educate children and adults about the fragility of the lake and the importance of conservation.
Without the dedication and commitment of these local groups, it is unlikely that the lake’s future would be as bright as it is today.
