Physical Characteristics
Lake Superior is a large freshwater lake located in the north-central United States and Canada. It is the largest of the five Great Lakes, the second largest lake in the world. Its area of 82,414 square kilometers makes it the largest fresh water body in the world by surface area. Lake Superior is 319 miles long and 101 miles wide, with a maximum depth of 1,332 feet. It is 322 miles from east to west, and 257 miles from north to south. The lake’s average temperature is 28-35 degrees Fahrenheit. The water temperature in Lake Superior is also known to change quickly from shallow to deep water.
Temperature Variability
The temperature of Lake Superior varies significantly during different times of the year. In the hottest months of the year, July and August, the surface temperature can reach almost 70 degrees Fahrenheit. In the coldest months, January and February, the surface temperature can dip below freezing. The deeper you go in Lake Superior, the colder the temperature. At depths over 200 feet, temperatures remain constant throughout the year, usually around 39 degrees Fahrenheit.
Factors Affecting Temperature
Several factors affect the temperature of Lake Superior. Geography is one factor. The lake is surrounded by temperate forests and can be affected by weather patterns such as wind and fronts in the area. Seasonal changes in the sunlight, water clarity and water levels can also impact the temperature of the lake. The amount of precipitation in the area can also affect the temperature, as can runoff from rivers and streams emptying into the lake.
Temperature Impact on Recreation
The temperature of Lake Superior can have an impact on recreational activities in the area. The cold temperatures can make swimming and other water sports uncomfortable, with water numbingly cold for long periods of time, if not impossible at all. On the other hand, in the summer, when the water temperatures are warmer, such activities as boating, fishing, and sailing all become more enjoyable.
Temperature Impact on Wildlife
The warm and cold water temperatures of Lake Superior also has an impact on the variety of wildlife living in and around the lake. Certain species of fish, such as walleyes, thrive in cold water, while other species of fish, like bass, do not do well in the cold of Lake Superior. The temperature of the lake also affects the type of vegetation that will grow and thrive in the area.
Human Impact on Temperature
Humans have been found to influence the temperature of Lake Superior, both directly and indirectly. Through industry, runoff from various cities and transport of materials, pollutants such as nitrates and phosphates enter the lake, which can have a negative effect on the lake’s ecosystem. On the other hand, humans have also cleaned the lake in recent years which has the effect of increasing water clarity, leading to an increase in the amount of sunlight entering the water and thus increasing its temperature.
What Temperature is Lake Superior?
In conclusion, the temperature of Lake Superior can vary widely from shallow to deep water and from season to season. The temperature of the lake can be affected by a variety of factors, including geography, weather patterns, water clarity and water levels, and human influence. At depths more than 200 feet, temperatures remain constant, usually around 39 degrees Fahrenheit. The surface temperature in the summer months can reach almost 70 degrees Fahrenheit, while in the winter months, the surface temperature can dip below freezing.
Alterations to Lake Superior
Lake Superior is considered one of the most important ecosystems in North America, due to its high biodiversity, intact habitats, and dense manufacturing history. The great lake has however, endured numerous alterations since its formation. These consist of logging, dredging, ore mining, and construction, to name a few. The majority of these changes have caused short-term and long-term damages to the speed and volume of water, the fish, vegetation, climate, and chemistry. Although some of these operations are necessary for infrastructure development, there is a need for a clear understanding of the consequences from the various activities, so as to prevent further damage.
Sustainability of the Lake
The Great Lakes ecosystems have experienced significant changes to its biodiversity and food webs due to increased human activity and climate change in recent years. This is exemplified by the decline in fish populations, which has been estimated to have decreased by a third in Lake Superior since the early 20th century. To ensure the sustainability of Lake Superior, efforts must be taken to reduce the amount of human influence on the lake and its species. Low impact fishing, the removal of shoreline structures to allow for better fish habitats, the establishment of protected areas, and the improvement of wetland habitats are all steps that can be taken to help protect the well-being of the Great Lakes.
Organizations Involved
Various organizations have been formed to address the issues facing Lake Superior and its ecosystems. The organizations include government agencies, environmental groups, and educational institutions. For example, the Lake Superior Quality Agreement is a bi-national agreement between Canada and the U.S. that is aimed at achieving sustainable management of the lake. Similarly, the Lake Superior Marine Task Force focuses on the health of marine organisms. The Lake Superior Binational Forum is an international body established to advise the Canadian and U.S. governments on how best to foster cooperation and coordination in the Great Lakes region.
Economic Benefits of Lake Superior
In addition to its important ecological benefits, Lake Superior has great economic importance for both the United States and Canada. The lake is a major source of fresh water, which is used for drinking, hydropower, transportation and recreation. The lake is also home to various species of freshwater fish, which are harvested for commercial and sport fishing. The lake is also a major tourist destination, providing jobs and tourism revenue for both countries.
Future of the Lake Superior
It is evident that Lake Superior is an important source of fresh water and provides numerous economic benefits to those in the surrounding region. This is why protecting and preserving this great lake is essential, so that we can ensure its sustainability and the continued abundance of its beauty and resources. In the coming years, more efforts must be taken in order to protect this important part of both U.S. and Canadian heritage.
