The Connection Between New Jersey and the Great Lakes
New Jersey, located on the east coast of the United States, may seem far removed from the Great Lakes region in the Midwest. However, these two regions are connected through trade, transportation, and environmental impact. New Jersey relies on the Great Lakes region for the transportation of goods, such as coal, grain, and iron ore, which are essential to its economy. Additionally, the Great Lakes play a crucial role in providing drinking water to millions of people in the Northeastern United States, including those in New Jersey.
What are the Great Lakes?
The Great Lakes are a group of five freshwater lakes located in the northeastern part of North America. They are the largest group of freshwater lakes in the world, covering an area of over 94,000 square miles. The Great Lakes are connected to the Atlantic Ocean through the St. Lawrence River, and they form a natural border between the United States and Canada. The lakes are also home to an incredibly diverse array of plant and animal life, making them an important ecological resource.
How Many Great Lakes are There?
As mentioned above, there are five Great Lakes: Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, Lake Huron, Lake Michigan, and Lake Superior. Each lake has its unique features and characteristics, making them important for both environmental and economic reasons.
Which Great Lakes Border New Jersey?
None of the Great Lakes border New Jersey directly. However, New Jersey is connected to the Great Lakes region through the St. Lawrence River, which provides a gateway for trade and transportation between the two regions. Additionally, the Great Lakes are a source of drinking water for many in the Northeastern United States, including those in New Jersey.
Lake Ontario: Features and Facts
Lake Ontario is the easternmost of the Great Lakes and lies to the north of Lake Erie. It is the smallest of the Great Lakes by volume, but it is still a massive body of water, with a surface area of over 7,300 square miles. Lake Ontario is an important source of hydroelectric power, and it is home to a diverse range of fish species.
Lake Erie: Features and Facts
Lake Erie is the southernmost of the Great Lakes and is bordered by four states: Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, and Michigan. It is the fourth-largest of the Great Lakes by volume and has a surface area of over 9,900 square miles. Lake Erie is famous for its walleye and perch fisheries, which are essential to the region’s economy.
Lake Huron: Features and Facts
Lake Huron is the second-largest of the Great Lakes and has a surface area of over 23,000 square miles. It is located to the north of Lake Erie and is bordered by Michigan, Ontario, and the Georgian Bay. Lake Huron is known for its rocky shores and sandy beaches, and it is home to many lighthouses and shipwrecks.
Lake Michigan: Features and Facts
Lake Michigan is the only Great Lake located entirely within the United States and is bordered by four states: Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin. It has a surface area of over 22,000 square miles, making it one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world. Lake Michigan is known for its sandy beaches and clear blue waters, and it is a popular tourist destination.
Lake Superior: Features and Facts
Lake Superior is the largest of the Great Lakes and is located to the north of Lake Huron. It has a surface area of over 31,000 square miles, making it the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area. Lake Superior is known for its rugged shorelines, rocky cliffs, and clear blue waters, and it is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including wolves, moose, and bald eagles.
The St. Lawrence River: A Gateway to the Great Lakes
The St. Lawrence River connects the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean and plays a crucial role in the transportation of goods between the Midwest and the Northeastern United States. The river is also an important source of hydroelectric power and is home to many species of fish, including sturgeon, salmon, and trout.
The Economic Importance of the Great Lakes for New Jersey
The Great Lakes region is a crucial source of raw materials for New Jersey’s economy. Iron ore, coal, and grain are all important commodities that are transported from the Great Lakes region to New Jersey. Additionally, the Great Lakes provide a source of drinking water for millions of people in the Northeastern United States, including those in New Jersey.
Conclusion: The Importance of the Great Lakes for New Jersey’s Economy
While New Jersey may seem far removed from the Great Lakes region, the two regions are connected through trade, transportation, and environmental impact. The Great Lakes play a crucial role in providing raw materials and drinking water to New Jersey, making them an essential part of the state’s economy. Additionally, the Great Lakes are an ecological resource that must be protected and preserved for future generations.
