Celebrating Lake Superior on World Water Day
By Amy Ryan, Communications Coordinator
As we commemorate World Water Day, let's take some time to reflect on the natural wonder in our own backyard, Lake Superior. This magnificent body of water is an incredible part of our living landscape. It's a vital ecosystem that demands our attention and care.
How does Lake Superior contribute to the well-being of people and the planet?
Biodiversity Haven: Lake Superior boasts an incredible array of plant and animal species, from 80 species of freshwater fish like lake trout and whitefish to unique shoreline vegetation. It's a biodiversity hotspot that requires pristine conditions to thrive. Preserving the cleanliness of Lake Superior is essential for this to continue.
Drinking Water Source: Millions of people rely on Lake Superior as a source of clean drinking water. Ensuring that we take action to protect, conserve, and restore the lake is crucial for protecting public health and well-being. Pollution threats such as industrial runoff, plastic pollution, and invasive species pose risks that must be addressed through proactive conservation efforts.
Recreational Paradise: For generations, Lake Superior has been a destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Its crystal-clear waters offer opportunities for swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking along its rugged shores. By keeping Lake Superior clean, we preserve these recreational opportunities for current and future generations to enjoy.
Climate Stabilizer: As the largest freshwater lake by surface area in the world, Lake Superior plays a significant role in regulating the Earth's climate. It acts as a carbon sink, absorbing and storing carbon dioxide, and contributes to local climate regulation through evaporation and precipitation. Protecting the cleanliness of Lake Superior is vital for maintaining its climate-stabilizing functions.
Join us in honouring World Water Day by raising awareness about the importance of keeping Lake Superior clean and healthy. Looking for something concrete to do? Adopting a Storm Drain helps keep our Great Lake cleaner by preventing leaves, trash, and other toxic debris from entering the aquatic ecosystems. Together, we can ensure that this majestic body of water can be enjoyed for generations to come.
