The Great Lake of Lake Superior, located among 4 US states (Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan and Ontario, Canada) is an important asset for these regions. It is the largest lake in the US, with an area of about 31,700 sq mi and reaching depths of over 500 feet.
Due to its grandeur, Lake Superior boasts unique stories and facts. It’s not just the size that inspired people; the lake also has an intriguing size. Its shoreline is 2,726 miles long, with a perimeter of about 2,800 miles. This length could be used to measure the circumference of the entire Great Lakes system – to get an idea of the extent of this lake.
Like many large lakes, Lake Superior can be a tricky place to measure. Expert measurements of the lake’s circumference vary depending upon the configuration of the lake. Taking into account the irregularly shaped bays and peninsulas, some estimates of the lake’s circumference may reach as high as 3,400 miles.
Surprisingly, the Great Lake has no visible current. The little wave action seen in the lake is the residual of wind pushing the surface water. The movement of ocean tides is absent because the water basin is too large. The wave height is usually less than a foot and the water is almost always still at its deepest level.
The Great Lake Superior is home to approximately 87 species of fish, of which 36 are native. The fish most commonly found in the lake include yellow perch, walleye, whitefish, white bass, northern pike, lake trout and more. About 75% of the fish live off the coast on the Canadian side. The rest of the species either migrate there or spend their whole lives at this location.
A fascinating fact about Lake Superior is that it contains enough water to cover North America in a foot of liquid. This immense supply of fresh water enabled Native American tribes to gather and use the lake for their livelihood before Europeans arrived. The lake has been a significant part of various cultures for centuries.
Since the lake is so large and deep, it contains many hidden secrets that remain uncharted. It has over 400 shipwrecks and is full with many unsolved mysteries. Many people are drawn by the mystery of Lake Superior and return hoping to find buried treasures.
How Temperature Affects Lake Superior
Lake Superior is unique in that it has the largest surface area and deepest depths of any other freshwater lake in the world. Due to its sheer size, it stays an average temperature throughout the year of 4° Celsius (39° Fahrenheit). Its surface can remain frozen for up to a year and it takes more days to thaw out when compared to other Great Lakes.
The cold water temperature has a direct effect on the wildlife that inhabits the lake. Because it is so cold, most of the fish are coldwater fish. Coldwater fish require food that is more calorie-dense than that available to warmwater fish found in the other Great Lakes. This means that Lake Superior’s ecosystems are very different from those found in other Great Lakes.
On the other hand, Lake Superior’s cold temperatures create an ideal environment for diving enthusiasts. The Lake’s average temperature of 4°C (39°F) is much colder than the temperature of other bodies of water, making it easier to stay underwater for longer time durations. Coupled with its crystal clear visibility, the Lake is an ideal spot for divers to explore and view the diverse marine life found in its depths.
The cold temperatures, however, do have a downside. Ice cover can pose a threat to beachgoers, sportsmen, and even vessels in the lake. In some cases, the lake can freeze over entirely, at least one time a year. It can also contribute to hazardous road conditions around Lake Superior in winter.
Environmental Impact of Lake Superior
The Lake has a great variety of vegetation which varies from the species found in other areas of the Great Lakes. This wide selection of aquatic plants along with the lake’s seabeds are important for breeding and food for fish, birds and other aquatic life.
Due to its size and temperature, Lake Superior also has limited diversity of aquatic species. Of the few species found, the lake is home to more than 30 species of native fish. These include yellow perch, walleye, herring and lake trout, some of which are threatened or endangered.
The effects of human activities, such as chemical fertilizers, deforestation and air pollution are vastly visible around Lake Superior. Certain pollutants are carried to the lake by rivers and streams. Another cause of pollution is the logging of trees in the Lake’s watershed, which allows chemical residues from fertilizer and other contaminants to seep into the water.
Fortunately, Lake Superior water is still comparatively clean compared to other large lakes in the world. The adjacent watersheds are largely undeveloped and the lake itself is remote and sparsely populated. Knowing the importance of protecting the Lake from harm, various organizations have been working hard to protect and preserve its natural environment.
Importance Of Lake Superior
Throughout history, Lake Superior has played a major role in the development of the Great Lakes region. The lake is an important source of drinking water, hydro-energy, and a major shipping route used by some of the most important industries. It also provides recreational opportunities for a large portion of the population in North America.
The fishing industry also relies heavily on the lake. The number of visitors fishing around Lake Superior continues to grow. It is not only recreational fishing but commercial fishing that helps to keep the lake vibrant. It also provides jobs to many communities in the area.
In addition to its practical importance, Lake Superior is regarded in many parts of Canada and the United States as a symbol of strength and beauty. The lake has captured the imaginations of authors, poets, and adventurers for centuries. It’s stories, images, and immense grandeur have inspired many to explore this unique and remarkable place.
Preserving Lake Superior
The efforts to protect the Lake Superior are being carried out by several organizations. The International Joint Commission, formed back in 1909, is the key body taking steps to conserve the Lake’s water quality. It also works to prevent dangerous accidents and keep its shorelines clean.
The Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement (GLWQA) signed between the United States and Canada in 1972, ensures the implementation of strategies to preserve the Lakes’ environment. The GLWQA has been amended several times, from 2005 to 2018.
The US and Canada Royal Commissions have also taken several steps to protect the lake from pollution produced in industrial and manufacturing activities. Local communities work with these bodies to limit or reduce activities that could have a negative impact on the lake or its environment.
The Lake Superior National Estuarine Research Reserve, established in 1998, is another such body that works towards maintaining the ecological integrity of the lake and its critical habitats. The Reserve also serves as an educational and outreach center, fostering critical conservation and management policies.
The collaborative efforts of all these organizations finally add up to conserve and protect Lake Superior and the Great Lakes system in general. As a result, Lake Superior remains one of the most majestic and vital habitats in the world.
Role In Climate Change
Climate change is an increasingly relevant topic and one of the greatest environmental challenges of our time. It is vital to consider the devastating impact of climate change on Lake Superior. Research indicates that the lake’s temperature and precipitation could be altered drastically in the years to come, leading to a decrease in wind power, bigger waves, and more frequent storms.
The rivers and streams that feed into the lake will also be affected by increased temperatures. Warmer and less predictable weather can cause changes in water availability, as well as the growth rates and reproductive frequency of aquatic species. These changes could have devastating impacts on the lake ecosystem.
The consequences of climate change will be felt not only by the wildlife in and around the lake, but by the people who rely on the lake for food and recreation. It is essential that we take steps to reduce our contribution to climate change, in order to protect Lake Superior, and all the aspects of our lives that depend on it.
Conclusion
Lake Superior is an awe-inspiring natural landmark that is integral to the history, economy and environment of the Great Lakes region. Its immense size has provided a variety of water activities such as fishing, boating and diving. Its size also leads to a high level of protection from pollution and other human activities, while it still provides unparalleled resources.
Despite this, the lake is still vulnerable to environmental damage from climate change, pollution and other human activities. For this reason, it is essential for us to take steps to reduce our impact on the environment, and to do our part in conserving the Lake for years to come.
