THE GREAT LAKES 3

Challenges:
Even though both Canada and the United States have placed a number of regulations in order to protect this valuable natural resource, many challenges threat the lakes. Through the last few hundred years, people have fished from the lakes and depended on them not only as a source for local consumption but also as a major source for international exportation and commerce. As a result, some species are becoming endangered while some have already become extinct. This problem was further amplified due to the removal of the trees covering the nearby streams and channels which provide spawning grounds. It affected the necessary shade, temperature, and moderating conditions which are essential to reserve endangered species. Other ecological problems in the lakes and their surroundings have stemmed from the urban sprawl, sewage disposal, and toxic industrial discharge.


The Great Lakes are a great and valuable resource for the whole planet, and for Canada and the United States in particular. Their unique features and large size make them an important habitat for many of the planet’s unique species. Appreciating and protecting the Great Lakes is a mission of humanity as well as a major part in saving the planet we live on. However, great effort is being made by both neighboring countries, yet much more work needs to be done and further cooperation is essential for guaranteeing a possible future for the Great Lakes.