What is so special about the Great Lakes? What is special about the Great Lakes?

The Great Lakes, comprising Lakes Superior, Huron, Michigan, Ontario, and Erie, are a marvel of nature and a vital part of North America’s geography. They form the largest body of fresh water on Earth, accounting for one-fifth of the freshwater surface on the planet, which is about 22 percent of the world’s fresh surface water supply and about 90 percent of the United States’ supply.

These lakes span forest, grassland, and wetland habitats, supporting a region that’s home to 3,500 species. The Great Lakes and their connecting rivers and channels make up the largest fresh surface water system in the world. In fact, they’re so big that astronauts can see them from the moon!

The Great Lakes are not just a natural wonder, but they also play a significant role in the region’s economy and lifestyle. More than 30 million people live in the Great Lakes basin, which equates to 10 percent of U.S. residents and 30 percent of Canadian residents. The lakes are popular recreation spots for boating, fishing, and other recreational activities, and they still serve as an important mode of transportation of goods.

The formation of the Great Lakes is a fascinating tale of nature’s power. About 14,000 years ago, the Great Lakes area was covered with a glacier that was more than a half-mile thick. As the glacier melted, it slowly moved toward Canada and left behind a series of large depressions that filled with water. These formed the basic shape of the Great Lakes, and about 10,000 years ago the Great Lakes took the form that is familiar today.

In conclusion, the Great Lakes are special not just because of their size or the amount of water they hold, but also because of the diverse ecosystems they support, the millions of people who depend on them, and the rich history they hold. They truly are a great natural feature of the continent and of the Earth.