The Great Lakes
The Great Lakes are a group of five interconnected freshwater lakes located in North America, consisting of Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Erie, and Lake Ontario. They are the largest group of freshwater lakes in the world by total area, covering a combined area of approximately 94,250 square miles (244,106 square kilometers). The Great Lakes are of significant economic, environmental, and recreational importance to the region and the world.
Overview of Canadian Provinces
Canada is divided into ten provinces and three territories, each with its own unique geography, culture, and history. From east to west, the provinces are Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and British Columbia. The three territories are Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut. Each province and territory has its own capital city, government, and laws.
The Great Lakes: Location and Size
The Great Lakes are shared by the United States and Canada, with four of the five lakes located along the US-Canada border. Lake Superior is the only Great Lake that is entirely located within the United States. The lakes are situated in the heart of North America, spanning a vast area from the Canadian Shield and the Appalachian Mountains to the Great Plains. The Great Lakes contain approximately 21% of the world’s surface freshwater and are home to over 35,000 islands.
Which Canadian Province Borders the Great Lakes?
The province of Ontario borders all five of the Great Lakes, making it the only Canadian province with direct access to the lakes. Ontario is located in east-central Canada and is the second-largest province by total area, covering approximately 415,590 square miles (1.08 million square kilometers). Ontario shares its southern border with the United States and is home to over 14 million people, making it the most populous province in Canada.
Ontario: The Province of the Great Lakes
Ontario is often referred to as the "province of the Great Lakes" due to its close proximity and direct access to the lakes. The province’s shoreline stretches over 7,500 kilometers, with the Great Lakes playing a vital role in the province’s economy, environment, and recreation. Ontario is also home to countless rivers, streams, and smaller lakes, making it a premier destination for water activities and outdoor enthusiasts.
Ontario’s History with the Great Lakes
The Great Lakes have played a significant role in Ontario’s history, dating back to the First Nations and early European explorers and settlers. The lakes were a primary means of transportation and trade, with the fur trade and shipping industries thriving on the lakes. Today, the Great Lakes continue to be a vital transportation route for goods and commodities, connecting Ontario to the rest of North America and the world.
The Economic Importance of the Great Lakes in Ontario
The Great Lakes are of critical economic importance to Ontario, with the shipping industry alone generating billions of dollars in revenue each year. The lakes also support important industries such as fishing, agriculture, tourism, and renewable energy. Ontario’s proximity to the United States and the rest of Canada makes it a prime location for trade and commerce, with numerous ports and transportation hubs located along the lakes.
The Environmental Significance of the Great Lakes
The Great Lakes are a unique and complex ecosystem, providing habitat for a wide range of plant and animal species. They are also a source of drinking water for millions of people and support numerous recreational activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing. However, the lakes are facing numerous environmental challenges, including pollution, invasive species, and climate change. Ontario is working to protect and restore the Great Lakes ecosystem through various conservation and restoration efforts.
Recreation and Tourism on the Great Lakes in Ontario
The Great Lakes are a popular destination for recreation and tourism, with countless opportunities for water activities, camping, hiking, and more. Ontario’s shoreline is home to numerous parks, beaches, and marinas, with many communities and cities offering unique cultural and culinary experiences. The lakes also draw visitors from around the world to witness the beauty and power of these natural wonders.
Challenges Facing the Great Lakes in Ontario
Despite their importance and beauty, the Great Lakes are facing numerous challenges that threaten their health and sustainability. Climate change, pollution, and invasive species are just a few of the issues that are impacting the lakes and their ecosystems. Ontario is working with other jurisdictions and stakeholders to address these challenges and ensure the long-term health and vitality of the Great Lakes.
Conclusion: Ontario and the Great Lakes
Ontario’s close proximity and direct access to the Great Lakes make them a vital part of the province’s economy, environment, and recreation. The lakes are of critical importance to Ontario and the rest of North America, providing transportation, food, water, and countless recreational opportunities. However, the Great Lakes are facing numerous challenges that require ongoing attention and action. Ontario is committed to working with partners and stakeholders to protect and restore the lakes, ensuring their sustainability for generations to come.
References and Further Reading
- Great Lakes Commission. "About the Great Lakes." .
- Government of Canada. "Provinces and Territories of Canada." .
- Government of Ontario. "The Great Lakes." https://www.ontario.ca/page/great-lakes.
- Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. "Great Lakes." https://www.ontario.ca/page/great-lakes.
- United States Environmental Protection Agency. "Great Lakes." .
