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Great Lakes Water Resources

The five Great Lakes contribute greatly to their respective regions in terms of the economy, culture and even climate. Containing close to 18 percent of Earth's surface freshwater, the Great Lakes provide habitat to many species of fish, birds and plants. In addition to the main lakes, the Great Lakes consist of the many wetlands, rivers and tributaries that supply water and nutrients to the greater system.

Great Lakes History
- The many advances and retreats of glacial activity formed what we know today as the Great Lakes. Native Peoples inhabited the area surrounding the lakes and lived by subsistence fishing, hunting and farming. About 10,000 years after the end of the last glacier in the area, the first Europeans arrived. As populations grew, pollution appeared in the lakes from poor farming techniques and excessive logging. Over-fishing and the introduction of non-native species decimated native fish populations.
Commercial Uses
- The Great Lakes waterway system is a conduit for ocean-going ships to enter deep into North America. Modern canals and locks allow navigation around waterfalls that previously blocked passage. Taconite pellets, coal, limestone, cement and grain are major items shipped by water. Commercial fisheries that were once decimated have made some recovery recently. Commercial fishing is largely done with trap nets. Trap nets allow only the fished-for species to become trapped in the net, increasing survival rates for sport fishing species.
Recreation
- Sailing is popular on all of the Great Lakes. Several races are held on the various lakes throughout the boating season. Short events as well as distance racing events are available. Popular races include the Trans Superior, the Chicago Mackinac and the Port Huron to Mackinac races. Sport fishing is also a popular event, attracting walleye, salmon, trout, rainbow smelt, whitefish and yellow perch fishing. Scuba diving has been popular in the lakes since the 1950s, primarily centered on the many shipwrecks that dot the underwater landscape.
Drinking Water
- Several cities utilize Great Lakes' water to supply drinking water to the public. According to Great Lakes Forever, 37 million people rely on the Great Lakes for their water source. One billion gallons of Lake Michigan water is used by Chicago alone. Because of tighter environmental restrictions and pollution education, the lake's water quality has improved since the widespread pollution of the 1960s and 70s.

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