Threats To Great Lakes Essay

Fear for Freshwater

Our Great Lakes have been used in recreational activity for possibly many centuries. Our children beg and whine for any chance to make it out to the beaches that surround our largest source of freshwater. And even though research and funds could be possibly used elsewhere, there are threats to the Great Lakes that are slowly destroying the Lake’s resources and ecosystems, mostly due to pollution coming from the air we, as humans, breath, habitat destruction and invasive species that make their way into the Great Lakes. Without the proper precautions being taken, our youth may not be able to enjoy these lakes that have become one of this nation’s greatest pastimes. As pollution is constantly making its way into the Great Lakes, it is killing the native species and sometimes causing water to be harmful to consume and swim in.

Nonpoint source pollution is one of the most damaging pollutants. This type of pollution is created when water from a rainstorm and/or melted snow carries harmful pollutants into the waterways and groundwater. The pollution is typically made

Not only do these habitats benefit the lakes and the ecosystem surrounding them, humans are able to benefit from them as well. With the wetlands being such an essential asset to the Great Lakes, they are also very susceptible to damage and destruction. Wetlands are sometimes referred to as the kidneys or sponges of the earth because they benefit the earth so much with filtration and extracting (“Basic Facts About Wetlands”). They provide services that reduce flooding for humans, prevent erosion and improve water quality. These wetlands also provide a proper habitat for species like waterfowl and some fish. With over 66% of the original wetlands being destroyed or filled in, these so-called sponges will eventually all be gone and the world will be missing one of it’s most productive ecosystems