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Great Lakes Forever
c/o Biodiversity Project
4507 N Ravenswood #106
Chicago, IL 60640
773-496-4020 phone
773-906-1303 fax
project@biodiverse.org
 
Intro::Environment::Cultural History::Economy::Policy::Fun Facts
Welcome to the Great Lakes!

Stretching from the shores of Lake Superior, through the waters of Lake Michigan, Huron, Erie and Ontario, and through the banks of the St. Lawrence river, the Great Lakes are one of the natural wonders of the world. The Lakes and their connecting channels contain roughly 18% of the world’s surface freshwater, second only to the polar ice caps!

These freshwater lakes are our most precious natural resource, home to over 37 million people and host to a rich and unique diversity of plants and animals. The Great Lakes’ natural bounty have played a defining role in the region’s
history and still support its primary economic activities, including agriculture, industrial manufacturing, steel production, shipping, commercial and sport fisheries, recreation and tourism.

Yet this incredible natural resource is threatened. Pollution is closing our beaches and contaminating our fish. Invasive species and irresponsible development are threatening the survival of our native wildlife. And special interests are pushing to actually buy and sell Great Lakes water for a profit.

It doesn’t have to be this way. You can help restore and protect the Great Lakes. Read about the Lakes (in this section),
threats to their health and safety, and what steps you can take in your daily life to help.
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