Introduction
Lake Superior is the largest of the Great Lakes, situated in North America and bordered by the US and Canada. Among its many impressive features, it boasts the distinction of being the world’s largest freshwater lake in surface area. It’s a vast expanse of sparkling blue and green, fed by snow melting of the mountains and by Prairie and Arctic ocean currents. For centuries, it has attracted adventurers, settlers and industry, and has served as an essential component of regional identity and culture. One of the more curious aspects of Lake Superior is its impressive circumference of distance, which we will consider in the following article.
Exploration and Maps
The first Europeans to come across Lake Superior were the French, who reached it in the late 17th century. An expedition called La Vérendrye—led by Pierre Louis La Vérendrye and his brothers—explored the lake extensively, mapping much of its northern and western shores. These maps, some of the earliest on record, helped other European nations to better understand the lake and its surroundings. Later, in the 19th century, Victorian travelers followed in their footsteps and documented the lake in great detail, both through writing and in terms of cartography.
Modern Measurement
Despite these early efforts to measure Lake Superior, the exact circumference of the lake has been difficult to ascertain. The shoreline is vast and difficult to navigate, and can be affected by changes in weather, or by periodic alterations in sea levels.One of the most reliable sources of information on the lake’s circumference is the US Geological Survey, which conducts regular surveys of the lake and its tributaries. Their most recent estimates indicate that Lake Superior has a circumference of more than 3,200 kilometers (about 1,988 miles).
Records and Comparisons
Lake Superior is the world’s third largest lake by surface area, after the Caspian and Super Siberian Lakes in Russia. All three of these lakes have impressive cirfumferences of over 3,000 kilometers. In terms of distance, Lake Superior outstrips the remaining four of the Great Lakes combined. It is larger than an average US state, and is also larger than some of the smaller countries in the world, like Croatia.
Impact of Distance on the Economy
The long distance of this circumference has a direct economic impact; it allows many industries to be located in the cities near its shores. This is particularly beneficial for those that rely on transportation of goods by sea, or require access to major waterways. As a result, there is a wide range of businesses located along the shores of Lake Superior, from shipping firms to manufacturing centers. Away from the cities, its complex network of rivers, canals and islands facilitates the development of industries like the fishing and tourism.
Changing Landscape
Although Lake Superior’s circumference has remained largely unchanged over the last few centuries, there have been some alterations due to natural disasters or local interventions. In the late 19th century, for example, a fierce storm altered the lake’s coastline and altered its circumference considerably in some areas. The most recent example of such changes occurred in 1971, when a major hydro-engineering project shifted two of the top tributaries of the Wisconsin River, which in turn caused significant changes in the shoreline of Lake Superior.
Ecological Balance
Although the exact circumference of Lake Superior varies from time to time, its importance as an eco-system remains unchanged. Its large area and great depth provide an ideal habitat for an incredible range of plants and animals, many of which are unique to the area. Its waters are also a major source of sustenance for human settlements nearby, and several Indigenous tribes still reside within its environs. The decline of the lake’s fish stocks, however, is of great concern, as it has a direct impact on the health of the environment.
Rising Sea Levels
One of the most pressing problems facing Lake Superior is the phenomena of global warming and its associated rising sea levels. This is likely to adversely affect the circumference of the lake in the short to long term. It will also lead to other environmental changes like unpredictable temperature fluctuations, and a decrease in the availability of fresh water, especially in the southern and western regions.
A Unique Ecosystem
Although Lake Superior faces numerous environmental challenges, the long circumference of this huge lake continues to make it an essential part of the regional ecology. Ancient indigenous tribes and modern industries both rely upon its waters, while its varied environment provides a unique habitat for a huge range of species of plants and animals. Its impressive circumference, combined with its valuable resources, make it an incredible and irreplaceable part of North America’s landscape.
Conservation Efforts
In response to the myriad of issues facing Lake Superior, there have been a number of conservation efforts by local governments and non-profit organizations. These range from the establishment of parks and nature reserves, to the enforcement of regulations regarding fishing and other activities. Many of these efforts have been successful in mitigating the impacts of human activities, although the lake remains vulnerable to external factors like rising sea levels and climate change.
Recreation and Tourism
The long circumference of Lake Superior is also a major draw for tourists and recreationalists. Its impressive natural beauty has made it a popular destination for campers, hikers and photographers. In the summer months, the shores of the lake are filled with people seeking to enjoy its scenery, while its cold winter waters invite those in search of a real adventure. There are countless ways to explore and appreciate the lake’s circumference, whether it’s through land-based activities or by boat.
Waterway Connections
The long circumference of Lake Superior is also of great significance for transport and trade. It provides access for ships and other vessels to the other four Great Lakes, as well as to the Canadian waterways which connect to the Atlantic Ocean. Its vastness and variety make it an attractive proposition for boat owners and commercial fishermen, who make use of its many coves and islands. In this way, the circumference of Lake Superior is both a testament to its immense physical stature, as well as a practical asset for the people and industries which depend upon it.
Conclusion
The circumference of Lake Superior is an impressive testimony to its size and reach. Its 3,200 kilometers of shoreline make it one of the world’s greatest natural features, and its vast expanse provides an ideal habitat for a wide range of plants and animals. It is also an integral part of the local economy, providing sustenance and transportation for human settlements in the region. From its long distance of tourism to its various ecological and economic benefits, Lake Superior’s circumference is a living monument to the power of nature.
