Pristine and majestic, Lake Superior is the largest of the five Great Lakes of North America. Spanning 32,000 square miles, it also happens to be one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world. Not surprisingly, the lake has numerous depths and the deepest spot can be found in its northeastern zone. It is here that Lake Superior reaches its maximum depth, measuring an impressive 1332 feet.
Located off the coast of Michigan, near the Canadian/US boarder, this part of the lake has been identified as being the deepest, using measurements collected by various scientific surveys. During the period of 1935-1939, the first comprehensive outboard and underwater measurements were taken by the Great Lakes Survey that sought to analyze the depth, sediment content and the rate of flow of water.
Since then Lake Superior has been subject to numerous scientific studies and surveys, the results of which have been collected and stored by academic, governmental and non-governmental organizations. As a result, there is now a plethora of empirical evidence available to better understand the lake and consequently, come to an understanding about its deepest point.
According to geographers, Lake Superior can be divided into three distinct topographical regions – the North-Eastern Basin, Central Basin and South-Western Shore. The North-Eastern basin, where the lake is at its depths, is characterized by long, narrow and relatively deep trenches, formed due to the long, slow processes of erosion’s work. At its deepest point, which lies near Ile Royale, in the Canadian side of the lake, the depth of the lake has been measured to be 1,332 feet deep.
Moreover, the highest depths of Lake Superior are concentrated in the North-Eastern part of the lake. This is because the rest of the Lake has a more shallow draft, due to the sedimentary deposits left by the glaciers and rivers which flow into it. However, it is worth noting that the deepest parts of the lake are not limited to this region as depths of over 1,200 feet have been recorded near Silver Islet and Tobin Harbour, located in the North-Western side of the lake.
Experts believe that the great depths of Lake Superior are the result of the hundreds of years worth of erosion taking away at the lake bed. As the lake is constantly bombarded by huge waves generated by the lake’s deepening waters, the harder rocks along the lake’s bed are left to cope with this constant pressure and eventually break up into sedimentary deposits. This in turn means that the existence of greater depths in Lake Superior is mostly due to the continuous changes in its topography.
Lake Superior’s Flow and Currents
The sheer size of Lake Superior contributes to an incredible pressure difference between its two ends, which gives rise to the lake’s surface currents and its flow. Extending from the North of Montreal to the South of Chicago, Lake Superior contributes to different water flows, which consequently create the lake’s currents. As the lake is constantly replenished by countless rivers and streams, surface currents are generated to flow out from the lake.
The most significant current generated by Lake Superior is known as the Superior Outlet, which extends from its Northern end, moving towards the West, along the southern edge of Lake Michigan. From this point, the current flows towards the North, along the western edge of Lake Huron, which further intensifies the current. As this current progresses further, it passes through the Straits of Mackinac and reaches Lake Huron, thus completing the circle.
Surprisingly, Lake Superior moves at an impressive rate of 500-600 feet per year, with most of its progress taking place at its northern end. As it is estimated that Lake Superior has been around for 10,000 years, this cumulated amount means that the lake is responsible for changing much of the landscape of the Northern part of the USA.
Wildlife in Lake Superior
Due to its size, Lake Superior is home to a wide range of plants and animals, including numerous species of fish, such as trout, bass, muskie, and whitefish. There are also many species of amphibians and reptiles living in the lake, such as salamanders, turtles and frogs. The lake’s deep, cold waters are particularly suitable for ice-loving mammals such as the walrus. Visitors can also expect to spot the various water birds, such as the osprey, which migrate the lake during the winter.
Furthermore, the lake is rich in oxygenated water, which has been beneficial for the growth of numerous algal species such as diatoms. This in turn has attracted a large number of phytoplankton, which play an important role in the food webs of the lake. For example, these phytoplankton become food for the countless species of fish and other organisms, which flourish in the lake’s depths.
As such, Lake Superior has become a hotbed for research and conservation efforts, with numerous projects aimed at increasing public awareness about the lake’s vibrant wildlife and ecosystems.
Environmental Layer of Lake Superior
Lake Superior has an important role to play in its local environment. It is well known for its ability to influence climate and weather patterns. Its large surface area acts as a reservoir of heat during the cold winter months, which prevents the temperature from dropping too low. Furthermore, its freshwater stores act as an important source of drinking water for the local communities, many of which are now experiencing water shortages.
However, the environmental layer of Lake Superior has been increasingly under threat, as the result of human activity. For example, the lake’s water levels have significantly decreased due to a number of factors such as over-harvesting of its fish stocks and pollution from industries located near its shores. As a result, this has had a devastating effect on the lake’s aquatic life, with many species being endangered or extinct as a result.
Moreover, the lake’s exposed northern end has been affected by the changes in global climate and oceanic temperatures, leading to greater erosion, pollution and acidification of its waters. This has had a profound effect on the lake’s fauna and flora, with a massive decline in areas of the lake’s once lush marine life.
In light of this, governments and non-governmental organizations have been working together to ensure the protection of Lake Superior’s delicate environment. This involves the reduction of pollution and the development of policies to relieve pressure from the lake’s ecosystems. Furthermore, new research projects have been launched to better understand the lake’s depths and currents, in order to better manage its resources.
Tourism in Lake Superior
As the largest of the Great Lakes and the deepest freshwater lake in the world, Lake Superior is highly regarded by travellers and adventurers. Due to its breathtaking scenery, rugged shorelines, diverse wildlife and an array of activities to enjoy, Lake Superior has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States.
Every year, thousands of people flock to the lake’s shores to experience its breathtaking views. Tourists can enjoy kayaking, sailing, and fishing, as well as exploring its scenic landscapes and unique wilderness. Other popular activities include water skiing and swimming, as well as photography and sightseeing.
At the lakeside, visitors can find a range of accommodation options, ranging from bed and breakfasts to luxury resorts. There are also numerous visitors’ centers, offering a range of tours, along with plenty of restaurants, bars, and other facilities.
Moreover, the lake’s rugged yet beautiful coastline makes it an ideal destination for those looking for more extreme activities, such as rock climbing and mountain biking, as there are plenty of challenging trails to explore.
This makes it no surprise that Lake Superior remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in the US, as its unique combination of culture, history and spectacular natural beauty offers something for everyone.
Conservation and Preservation Efforts
In order to protect the beauty and balance of Lake Superior, a number of preservation and conservation efforts have been initiated by a variety of groups. These groups include the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the US Army Corps of Engineers, the International Joint Commission, and various regional and local governments.
These organizations have implemented a range of regulatory measures in an effort to reduce the impact of human activity on the lake’s fragile ecosystem. For example, the EPA has implemented a number of policies which prohibit certain activities, such as the discharge of pollutants, the harvesting of species, and the dredging of the lake’s bottom.
Moreover, the International Joint Commission, who is responsible for the management of the Great Lakes, have undertaken a number of initiatives to reduce the threat of ecological degradation. This includes providing funds for the prevention of pollution in the lake as well as the promotion of public awareness about the threats posed to the lake’s environment and wildlife.
Furthermore, various conservation efforts have been launched, such as the Great Lakes restoration program and the Great Lakes Basin Compact, which seek to restore and protect the lake’s natural resources.
In addition to this, the government of Michigan, the US Army Corps of Engineers, as well as many private organizations, have undertaken projects to clean up and maintain the lake’s shoreline and habitats. This includes planting trees, controlling invasive species, and preserving wetlands.
Final Thoughts
It is evident that Lake Superior is a wonder of nature, due to its great size, stunning views, lush wildlife, and its incredible depths. Despite its great depths, the lake is surprisingly resilient and versatile, playing a major role in its environment, both in terms of weather and drinking water.
In light of this, it is important that efforts are taken to protect the lake’s delicate environment and preserve its wildlife. This can be done through the implementation of regulatory measures and the launching of research projects. Moreover, by targeting the lake’s pollution levels and supporting the lake’s tourism industry, we can ensure that Lake Superior remains one of the most amazing sights in the United States.
