The Great Lakes of North America are used for transportation, recreation, drinking water supply, and a variety of other purposes. One of the largest of these is Lake Michigan, which occupies an expansive area along the eastern seaboard. It is bordered by four states: Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin.
The shoreline of Lake Michigan is distinctly curved, particularly in the northern reaches, as it is contained primarily by three peninsulas. The border of the lake is determined by the spot where the water reaches the furthest inland. The southernmost point at which the lake still holds its waters is located Bethesda Point, closest to the Indiana-Illinois border.
The boundaries between the individual states are mostly determined by long-standing bilateral agreements, which prevented any disputes over who could claim sovereign control. As such, each of the four states maintains full ownership of its portion of the lakefront, albeit at certain places divided by tiny isthmuses. The longest point of unbroken shoreline, however, is the Indiana-Michigan border.
As in many other states that make up part of the Non-Continental US, rates of water usage drastically exceed the replenishment of the lake over time, leading to lower water levels. Despite several efforts to control the rising demand that have been enacted by individual states, the lakewater levels continue to be threatened.
Excessive fertilizer runoff, nitrate-heavy waste, and failure to treat septic and industrial releases eventually find their way into the large lakes. Because of the laws protecting the lakefront the states have formed a panel in order to coordinate conservation initiatives rather than compete over resources. The Regional Coordination Panel works together to establish shared standards and regulations regarding the flow of water within the Lake Michigan watershed.
Lake Michigan is an important part of the ecology of the region. Its bordering states each have a unique history and relationship with the large freshwater body, for many of them it is a significant source of income. Regardless of political, family, and cultural histories the four states together must do what is necessary to maintain the integrity of the lake.
Agricultural Irrigation Systems
Agriculturists who live near Lake Michigan use a particular style of irrigation system to bring water to their crops. This style of irrigation — which is known as the Great Lake Irrigation Method — is designed to minimize soil erosion due to the high winds that frequently sweep across the lake. By directing water away from shorelines, this irrigation system helps to maintain healthy ground water levels and reduce detrimental runoff.
This ensures that land-based agriculture can thrive both in and around the lake, while protecting the fragile ecosystem of the lake. This system has thus had a key role in the success of farming in the region, and this style of irrigation is now used in other areas of the world, as well.
Despite the benefits of this system for the lake, fertilizers and manures are still having a negative impact on the lake’s water quality. The lake supports many species, but the heavy use of fertilizers has caused the spread of algae that are harmful to the general health of aquatic life. In fact, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) warns that excess phosphorus from fertilizers can lead to algal blooms, which can severely decrease oxygen levels and potentially harm native fish.
In order to reduce the negative impacts of agricultural activities, many local governments have started implementing regulations that include banning the use of certain pesticides and fertilizers, as well as maintaining waste-treatment systems. Although these initiatives have been unsuccessful in eliminating the issue, they have had a positive impact on the lake’s water quality.
Ultimately, farmers and regulatory agencies alike must ensure that any and all types of agricultural activity are conducted in a responsible way in order to prevent further degradation to Lake Michigan. But this can only be achieved if continued collaboration is encouraged between governmental agencies and irrigators.
Recreational Activities
Recreational activities are a huge part of the lake lifestyle. From fishing to sailing, there are many activities to be found in and around Lake Michigan for every kind of enthusiast. Meanwhile, the lakefront provides scenic areas for picnics, camping, and beach relaxation. In many areas, these activities support small local businesses, helping to create a thriving economy and support local communities.
In fact, tourism is an important and lucrative sector for the states bordering Lake Michigan. For example, the beaches and parks around Milwaukee, Wisconsin draw in thousands of visitors each year — which allows the city to draw in revenue and keep its infrastructure functioning. The lake has become not just an entertaining tourist destination, but an important economic factor in creating jobs and economic growth.
The vast number of recreational activities also contributes to conservation and preservation efforts. By educating people on the importance of protecting the lake, the community is encouraged to be aware of its ecological impact. This allows citizens to become mindful of their activities, shifting their attention to sustainable and eco-friendly approaches that benefit all.
For those looking to take part in recreational activities around Lake Michigan, there are some important safety and environmental considerations to take into account. For instance, the presence of submerged rocks, weeds, and logs can be hazardous. It is important to be aware of these elements and be sure to wear appropriate safety gear when engaging in recreational activities.
Environmental Threats
The rising levels of pollution, both from industrial and agricultural sources, represent a massive threat to the biodiversity of Lake Michigan. Air pollution, in particular, is a major issue, and has been linked to high levels of mercury in the lake’s sediments, as well as algal blooms. In fact, air pollution has become so severe in the lake’s surrounding areas that local governments have been forced to implement regulations limiting industrial and vehicle emissions.
Furthermore, high levels of phosphorus, nitrogen, and sediment are continuing to be released into the lake from non-point sources, such as agricultural runoff and improper wastewater management. These and other potentially toxic chemicals are responsible for fish kills, endangering the diverse fishes that exist in this freshwater system.
The governments of the four states and the Reginal Coordination Panel have developed strategies to reduce this kind of runoff and to clean up the lake, but more action is
necessary to better protect the large lake. For example, land-use planning initiatives, such as Buffer Zones or greenbelts, are necessary to prevent further land degradation and runoff while simultaneously preserving natural resources.
These efforts, along with the help of citizens and other stakeholders have already lead to some success. Since the 1960s, the phosphorus levels of the lake have decreased significantly — but this progress is not enough to undo the damage that has already been done. To ensure the protection of Lake Michigan, additional conservation efforts and protective policies must be continually implemented and enforced in order to guarantee its future.
Climate Change Effects
The effects of climate change are not just limited to air temperature, but also involve drastic changes to the water cycles of the planet. Lake Michigan has been particularly vulnerable in this regard, as the melting glaciers have begun to provide more freshwater to the lake, which leads to a decrease in its salinity and an increase in seawater intrusion.
This has also been accompanied by a rapid rise in surface temperatures which has been linked to massive algae blooms. This affects the lake’s health in a variety of ways, including reducing its oxygen levels and causing fish kills. In fact, this issue has been so severe that the governments of the four states bordering the lake have begun addressing the issue by formulating plans to utilize wind turbines to reduce the surface temperature of the lake.
The current situation represents a joint challenge for the four states surrounding the lake. Working together, they can implement a coordinated effort to reduce further damage and to help restore the lake’s balance. By utilizing renewable energy sources, improving water and wastewater treatment systems, and creating stronger agricultural regulations, the lake can be preserved and its species can be protected.
Tourism
The four states that surround Lake Michigan are among the most popular tourist destinations in the US, and for good reason. From vibrant cities nestled along the lake to its coastal landscapes, the area has much to offer visitors.
For instance, Illinois has a scenic shoreline and is home to a wide range of parks and water-based recreational activities. Indiana, meanwhile, is known for its expansive dunes and sandy beaches. Michigan offers a mix of suburban and urban experiences, while Wisconsin’s shoreline reflects its Scandinavian roots.
The state of tourism, however, has been heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite this, many of the businesses have reopened in the four states bordering Lake Michigan with stringent safety protocols in place. This means visitors can still explore the great outdoors, while adapting their approach to managing the risk of exposure.
For those looking to explore the Great Lake firsthand, there are plenty of adventure activities to find. Whether that be kayaking, fishing, swimming, jet skiing, or even taking part in a sightseeing cruise, the many experiences that the area has to offer will no doubt provide lasting memories.
Conclusion
Lake Michigan is an important part of the lives of people in the four states that border it. From providing a livelihood to farmers to supplying recreational activities to countless visitors, the lake has become an integral part of the local economy and culture.
However, in order to ensure the lake’s continued protection, the states must continue to collaborate in order to ensure that regulations and conservation efforts are effective. This will require an individual and collective effort, with both the government and citizens working towards the same goal.
