Lake Michigan’s Ice Cover
Lake Michigan is the largest of the five Great Lakes, covering an area of 58,000 square miles. Its diverse geography offers a range of climates which makes it popular for recreational activities year round. In the winter the lake can freeze over, although the extent to which it does varies from year to year. So what percent of Lake Michigan is covered by ice in an average winter?
The Midwest Regional Climate Center of the University of Illinois has been monitoring the lake level since the late 1920s. On average, a maximum of about 50 percent of its surface has been seen to freeze over. However, its ice cover has fluctuated greatly over the last century. Following low temperatures in 2013/14, a maximum of 95 percent of the lake was found to be frozen.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources asserts that the fluctuations in ice cover are mainly due to fluctuations in air temperature. They explain that large-scale atmospheric patterns such as El Niño are also capable of influencing the amount of ice in the lake. These climate variations make determining the exact amount of ice difficult. Moreover, the shallow Bay of Green Bay typically experiences much less ice formation than the deeper parts of the lake.
Furthermore, local factors also play a part in ice cover. Professors from the University of Michigan have researched the effects of industrial pollution on the surface ice of the lake. They found that dredged areas of the lake have a drastically reduced capacity for surface ice formation, potentially leading to local variations in ice cover.
Studying surface ice formation can also have important implications for the local ecology. The University of Lake Michigan has identified a shift in the lake’s ecology as a result of reduced surface ice cover over the past century. Increasing water temperatures have led to the invasion of new species and the migration of others, leading to a significant change in the lake’s biodiversity.
The lake has also experienced dramatic changes in its ice cover due to the effects of climate change. Studies by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) have shown that Lake Michigan is experiencing more frequent extreme lows in surface ice coverage. More notably, the overall trend in ice cover accumulation over the past century has been negative, with an average reduction of 8 percent every decade.
The Effects on Lake Levels
The decrease in ice cover on Lake Michigan can result in a couple of dramatic changes, most notably on the lake’s levels. Research by the University of Michigan’s Water Center has found that the reduction of surface ice results in significantly lower water levels. Without ice cover, the lake is exposed to more frequent thermal expansion, resulting in a decrease in its volume.
Another significant effect is the increased frequency of flooding. Explained by the US Geographical Survey, flooding occurs when there is a sudden rise in water levels due to rainfall. Without a layer of ice, Lake Michigan is less able to absorb sudden changes in levels. This has the potential to cause drastic effects on the surrounding environment, resulting in property damage and destruction.
Finally, reduced ice cover can also mean more volatile weather patterns. Explained by the National Climate Assessment, increased exposure to unstable temperatures can lead to extreme cold snaps and snow storms. Even with a small decrease in ice cover, the lake can experience dramatic weather fluctuations, resulting in prolonged periods of coldness.
The Effects on the Fishing Industry
The decrease in ice cover on Lake Michigan also affects fishers, who have to navigate the lake’s changing landscape. According to a study conducted by Michigan State University, fishing yields have reduced due to the lack of surface ice formation. The study identified that the drop in ice cover reduces foraging possibilities for fish, making it harder for fishers to find catches.
Furthermore, reduced ice cover has potential safety implications for fishers. As the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources note, the removal of ice cover exposes boats to the elements, making it difficult for fishers to maneuver the lake safely. This not only makes it hard for them to get to their desired fishing grounds but can put them in harm’s way.
At the same time, the decrease in ice cover has also been beneficial for the fishing industry. Explained by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, a reduced volume of ice reduces barriers to navigation. This has been seen to encourage fishers to explore deeper parts of the lake, potentially leading to more productive catches.
Overall, the reduction in ice cover on Lake Michigan has affected many aspects of its environment. Whether the benefits the lake has seen due to the reduction in ice cover outweighs the potential damages remain to be seen.
The Effects on the Economy
The decrease in ice cover on Lake Michigan has potential implications for the local economy too. Explained by the Michigan Department of Treasury, the decline in seasonal ice affects the lake’s recreational industry. Due to the lack of seasonal ice, fewer people are visiting the lake in winter months, leading to reduced tourism income.
Moreover, reduced ice cover can lead to an increased cost of living in the surrounding area. Studies by the US Forest Service have identified that the decline in ice has caused a decrease in pollution, resulting in higher prices for goods and services. This, in turn, leads to higher costs for residents, reducing their purchasing power.
Nevertheless, the decrease in ice cover is not all bad news for the local economy. Studies conducted by the University of Michigan have identified that a decline in ice cover increases crop yields and boosts fishing outputs. Furthermore, the increased exposure to sunshine for the lake can be utilized for tourism, potentially leading to growth in the local economy.
The Importance of Monitoring Ice Cover
It is evident that the decline in ice cover on Lake Michigan is having a range of effects on the surrounding environment and economy. This makes it increasingly important for the lake to monitor ice formation and its implications. Explained by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the tracking of seasonal ice allows them to make more informed decisions in terms of management. This can result in more effective strategies for preserving the lake and its surrounding environment, reducing potential damages.
Furthermore, monitoring can help recreationists who use the lake for various activities. Explained by the US Forest Service, tracking ice formation can help outdoor enthusiasts plan ahead for their trips on the lake. This can ultimately lead to a more pleasant experience and a better understanding of the lake’s changing conditions.
Additionally, owing to the fluctuating nature of Lake Michigan’s ice cover, the tracking of data becomes crucial for research purposes. Data collected over time can be analyzed for trends and used to formulate a better understanding of the lake’s ecology. This can be highly beneficial for a range of people and industries that depend on Lake Michigan’s resources.
Protecting the Lake’s Future
Consequently, it is essential that the authorities prioritize the protection of the lake and its resources. Explained by the Michigan Department of Environment, Quality, and Great Lakes, the lake’s management policies are designed to protect it and its surroundings. This includes the introduction of restrictions on polluting activity and policies that aim to reduce non-renewable resource consumption.
Moreover, they have stated that the lake is monitored regularly for changes in temperature and water levels. These records are used to create futuristic models that illustrate the impact of climate change in the region. This can help in the formulation of better management policies for the lake’s resources and reduce damages caused by extreme weather patterns.
In conclusion, a decrease in the lake’s ice cover presents both challenges and opportunities for its surrounding environment. To take advantage of the benefits, its effects must be monitored carefully and policies must be implemented to protect the lake and its resources.
