Geography
Lake Superior is the largest of the five Great Lakes of North America. Situated on the border of the United States and Canada, it is the second-largest freshwater lake in the world. Stretching for 160 miles along the coastline of Ontario and bordering Wisconsin in the US, it is the deepest of the Great Lakes. An impressive average depth of 483 feet, and a maximum depth of 1333 feet, puts it second only to the Caspian Sea when it comes to the deepest inland waters on the planet.
Natural Resource
A crucial resource both culturally and economically, Lake Superior is relatively free of development, allowing miles of untouched, peaceful wilderness to bask in the sun closer to urban centers than just about any other major body of freshwater in the US. Many of the beaches along its shore offer isolated and wild retreats far away from the troubles of the world, making them ideal places for a peaceful walk in nature.
Wildlife
The impressive body of water is home to many species of fish and wildlife, some of which are native only to the lake. Gray wolves, white-tailed deer, black bear, bald eagles and beavers are all species seen here, along with many different fish, including salmon, trout, walleye and lake sturgeon. The adventurous can explore a number of caves dotted along the shoreline, as well as several islands, including Isle Royale – an important tourist destination.
Tourism
Thanks to its size and abundance of wildlife, Lake Superior is a popular tourist destination. In addition to the numerous beaches and trails along its shore, visitors can also explore its many lighthouses, parks and wildlife refuges. The water is also teeming with recreational opportunities, from kayaking and sailing to stand-up paddle boarding. History buffs won’t be disappointed either, as the area is filled with interesting structures and monuments from a bygone era.
Impact of Climate Change
Unfortunately, climate change presents a serious threat to the lake’s future. Scientists predict that the lake level could rise by as much as 16 inches by 2100, drastically altering the lake’s habitat and adversely affecting its wildlife. As the climate continues to warm and lake levels rise, the lake’s native species could be displaced or forced to adapt to a changing environment.
Pollution
In addition to the effects of climate change, Lake Superior is threatened by pollution and runoff. With much of the lake’s underwater ecosystem still a mystery, the possibility of contaminants and pollutants entering the lake is a major cause of concern. In recent years, scientists have seen an increase in phosphorus in the lake, which has led to an increase in algae blooms and toxic algal toxins, as well as a decrease in oxygen levels – both of which negatively affect the lake’s delicate ecosystem.
Conservation Efforts
Fortunately, the lake is still relatively pristine and is home to many of its native species, thanks to the efforts of conservationists and the government. Several conservation initiatives are in place to ensure the lake is well-protected, including an effort to restore native species and a banning of motorized boats on some portions of the lake. Additionally, the Great Lakes Commission works to monitor and protect the lake as well as to promote sustainable development and recreation opportunities for visitors.
Industrial Development
Industrial development along the Lake Superior basin has also had an effect on the area. Although some development has been necessary in order to promote economic growth and opportunity, overdevelopment can have a detrimental effect on the environment. The construction of airports, highways and other infrastructure has taken its toll on the view and tranquility of the lake, while increased boat traffic has caused pollution and damage to the lake’s ecosystem.
Recreational Activities
Despite the issues of pollution and industrial development, Lake Superior remains a popular destination with many recreational activities available for visitors. Camping, fishing, and sightseeing are popular, as are kayaking, sailing, and stand-up paddle boarding. Historic lighthouses, observation towers, wildlife refuges, and beautiful sunsets make for an unforgettable experience. There’s also a wide variety of beaches, from sandy waves to undeveloped and wild beaches, that offer miles of tranquility and serenity.
Diving
If you’re looking for a unique underwater experience, then Lake Superior is perfect for diving. Not only does the lake boast stunning scenery and diverse sea life, but it has some of the best shipwreck sites in the world. Diving tours exploring these fascinating wrecks and the lake’s shipwrecks museum will take you on an adventure of a lifetime.
Air Quality
Visitors to Lake Superior will be treated to some of the cleanest air in the world. The air quality is excellent, due to limited industrial and agricultural activity along the lake’s shoreline, and relatively low levels of pollutants. When the wind blows out of the west, the lake traps pollutants that are coming in from metropolitan areas, such as Minneapolis and Detroit, hundreds of miles away, so the air around the lake remains incredibly clean.
Aquatic Life
The underwater world of Lake Superior is home to a diverse array of aquatic life, from the lake trout and lake sturgeon to the lake whitefish. The lake’s waters are also home to 17 species of fish that can only be found in this lake, and visitors can also find mollusks, crustaceans, and aquatic plants. Some species of fish, such as the walleye, can reach remarkable sizes in these waters, making fishing trips to the lake a great experience.
