The Great Lakes, a group of five large freshwater lakes in the northern Midwest, are undergoing numerous changes due to human activity and subsequent climate changes.
From toxic algae to plastic pollution and species decline, these waterways look very different than they did just a few years ago.
What is happening?
Like Fox 2 Detroit I mentionedThe Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy released its report on the health of the Great Lakes.
One popular fish species, the whitefish, has been overfished, vulnerable to invasive mussels, and is losing its habitat.
Water quality is an important issue in the Great Lakes region. Lines of green along the shoreline of Lake Erie can be seen from space. Sewage treatment plants and unsustainable agricultural practices have led to toxic algae and plumes.
Meanwhile, plastic pollution is a growing problem, with 22 million pounds of plastic waste entering lakes annually. Over time, this waste decomposes into microplastic particles, which are difficult to filter out and can harm human health.
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Why is lake health important?
The health of the Great Lakes and other lakes around the world is vital because they support diverse ecosystems and provide habitat for many species.
Hundreds of species depend on individual lakes to survive. At the same time, healthy lakes provide recreational opportunities such as fishing and swimming, boosting local economies and improving quality of life.
Lakes play a vital role as natural carbon sinks, helping to trap and store polluting gases. In this way, they contribute to clean air and water, which benefits human health and the environmental balance.
“Michigan residents share an incredible privilege – and responsibility – to protect and sustain our water resources, large and small,” EGLE Director Phil Ross He said. “Our lakes, rivers and groundwater drive our economy and shape our way of life.”
What is being done to clean and preserve the lakes?
Not all of the findings in the administration’s report were disappointing. One good news is that recovery efforts for the endangered piping plover have been successful, as the bird population near Sleeping Bear Dunes is increasing.
Another successful revitalization effort was noted in downtown Detroit: the opening of Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Park, a 22-acre green space along the river.
Such reports highlight environmental issues and spark advocacy among government leaders and the public. Successful lake conservation projects provide positive examples of how to improve water quality and address pollution.
In the Wolverine State, government leaders are working to understand and prevent pollution in the Great Lakes region. They have approved an additional $2 million in funding for related research.
If you’re interested in supporting lakes in your community and beyond, consider this Take local action By volunteering in cleanup efforts. You can too Exchange information about or Donate money To conservation groups working to restore and protect lakes in practical and sustainable ways.
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