Surrounding Areas
Lake Michigan is the second-largest of the five Great Lakes and is surrounded by states including Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin. It is also bordered by two Canadian provinces, Ontario and Quebec. The surface area of Lake Michigan is 22,404 sq miles and it is the fifth largest freshwater lake in the world. It is divided into two parts by the Straits of Mackinac in the north, with the eastern portion being connected with Lake Huron, and the western section connected with Lake Erie via the St. Clair River. Much of the shoreline of Lake Michigan is dotted with towns, beaches, forests, and other beautiful scenery.
Flora and Fauna
Lake Michigan is a haven for wildlife, harboring many species of fish, mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles. Some of the most popular fish include lake trout, lake sturgeon, lake whitefish, and lake herring. There are also various species of perch, bass, catfish, and walleye. The lake is also home to two endangered species, the lake sturgeon and the lake trout. Various mammals, including beavers, muskrats, otters, and white-tailed deer, can also be found around the lake. Additionally, due to the abundance of insects and aquatic plants, a wide variety of birds make their homes around the lake, including ducks, geese, gulls, loons, pelicans, and herons.
Features and Attractions
Lake Michigan is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. The lake is known for its beautiful scenery and has a number of tourist attractions, including trails, lighthouses, historic sites, and nature preserves. There are also several amazing beaches along the lake, with white, sandy shores and crystal clear blue waters. Boaters and fisherman can take advantage of the lake with several marinas and fishing spots around the area. The lake can also be enjoyed by having a picnic, camping, or venturing out on nature trails.
Watersports and Recreation
Lake Michigan is a great place for water sports, such as swimming, sailing, jet skiing, and kayaking. The lake also has several excellent surfing spots and attracts many surfers from all around the world. Boaters can enjoy the lake with numerous marinas, boat ramps, and yacht clubs. There are also plenty of fishing spots around the lake, perfect for anglers of all skill levels.
Climate and Weather
The climate of Lake Michigan is generally temperate, with warm summers and cold winters. The average temperature of the lake during the summer ranges from 60-79°F and in the winter, it’s about 40-45°F. Lake Michigan tend to experience episodes of severe storms, especially during the late spring and early fall months. These storms can produce strong winds, waves, and even waterspouts – strong, rotating columns of air and spray that can last several minutes.
Effects on Shorelines
One of the most visible effects of Lake Michigan on its surrounding environment is observed on the shorelines of the lake. The lake’s level has been rising over the years, which causes erosion of the shoreline and destruction of dunes and other ecosystems. Also, when water levels rise, it can flood parkland, golf courses, and other recreational areas around the lake.
Water Quality
The water quality of Lake Michigan is a concern for locals and tourists alike. The lake has been affected by industrial, agricultural, and municipal sources of pollution, including oil, chemicals, domestic sewage, and agricultural fertilizer runoff. As a result, the lake suffers from eutrophication, which refers to the excessive growth of algae due to the presence of high amounts of dissolved phosphorus. This can reduce the amount of oxygen present in the water, harming aquatic life forms. However, several programs and regulations have been put in place to help prevent further pollution and protect the lake’s ecosystem.
Air Pollution
In addition to water pollution, air pollution affects the lake and its surroundings. The pollutants that come from nearby industrial and vehicular sources can settle on the surface of the lake, depleting its oxygen content. This can make it more difficult for animals and aquatic life to survive in the lake, as well as make it hazardous for people who come into contact with the lake. The lake also absorbs carbon dioxide from the surrounding atmosphere, which contributes to global warming.
Invasive Species
Lake Michigan is home to a number of invasive species, which can disrupt the balance of its ecosystem. These species include the zebra mussel, round goby, Eurasian ruffe, common carp, and comb jellyfish. These species can compete with native species for resources or feed on the native species, disrupting the food web within the lake. As a result, they can cause a decline in populations of native species.
Land Reclamation
The lake’s shoreline has also been changed due to land reclamation. This is the process of filling in or reclaiming land, which is often done to make more home sites, recreational areas, and roads. Land reclamation is a major issue due to its effects on the ecosystem of the lake, such as the disruption of water flow, destruction of habitats, and decrease in water quality.
Oil Spills
Oil spills can also have a detrimental effect on the lake. Oil is toxic and contains many chemicals, which can pose health risks to humans and wildlife alike. The spill can also damage the lake’s vegetation, habitats, and submerged marine life. Furthermore, it can cause the release of oil fumes into the atmosphere, leading to acid rain and further damages the lake’s environment.
Conclusion
Lake Michigan is a beautiful and expansive freshwater lake, but it is also subject to numerous natural and human-related disturbances. The changing water levels, air and water pollution, and the introduction of invasive species can all negatively affect the lake’s ecosystem. Therefore, it is important for people to understand the effects of their activities, such as land reclamation, on the lake and work to preserve it for future generations.
