Lake Erie Literacy Principle 8

Lake Erie is socially, economically and environmentally significant to the region and nation.

a

Lake Erie is a source of inspiration, recreation, rejuvenation, discovery and raw materials. It is also an important element in the heritage of many cultures and individuals.





b

Lake Erie, its tributaries and coastal wetlands have been significant to historical settlement and development. The lake’s name and the names of many cities, counties, tributaries and landmarks along its shore have Native American or immigrant origins. As a fresh water resource, Lake Erie continues to play a role in the habitation of the area.

• Native American and European pioneers frequently settled near Lake Erie estuaries because they contained abundant fish, wildlife and shellfish and were excellent boat harbors.
• Lake Erie was a key element in the formation of the United States and Canada from the writing of the Northwest Ordinance, to the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812, to providing an escape to freedom as a major link in the Underground Railroad.
• Many major Lake Erie ports are located in or near estuaries.
• Natural estuaries are economically valuable because they support eco-tourism and recreation, protect Lake Erie against watershed pollution, and lessen coastal erosion.
• Today, many major Great Lakes ports are located in or near estuaries that have been altered by human development. However, natural estuaries are economically valuable because they support eco-tourism and recreation, protect Lake Erie against watershed pollution, and lessen coastal erosion.




c

Lake Erie’s moderating effects on climate influence the human culture, outdoor activities, agriculture and the health of adjacent coastal areas.

• e.g. regional specialization in viticulture, nurseries, maple sugaring




d

Waterborne commerce moves millions of tons of cargo annually through Lake Erie. Shipping is an economically efficient method of transporting raw materials, finished goods and agricultural products. However, shipping also transports non-native species, several of which may be detrimental to the Lake Erie ecosystem.

• Products shipped on Lake Erie include iron ore, salt, limestone, coal and grain.




e

The economy is diverse around Lake Erie, with major sectors in industry, recreation and tourism, agriculture, commercial and sport fisheries, forestry and mining.





f

Lake Erie has been and continues to be dramatically degraded and challenged by human endeavors. Individual and collective efforts are being made to restore the Lake and its resources. While restoration challenges still exist, Lake Erie is used as a representative model for environmental management and regional and international cooperation. Proper foresight and informed decision making will continue to make Lake Erie a model of environmental protection, restoration and innovation.

• The pollution that nearly destroyed the lake resulted in benefits to water resources throughout the country with the formation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (1970) and the passage of legislation such as the Clean Water Act (1972) and Coastal Zone Management Act (1972).










The Lake Erie Literacy Principles and Concepts were finalized in the spring 2011.

• Print LELPC Brochure (requires larger format paper)

• Print LELPC as 8.5 x11 paper

• Print a one page listing principles only

  
  

Lake Erie Literacy Concepts aligned with
National Science Education Standards Elements

Principle 8: Lake Erie is socially, economically and environmentally significant to the region and nation.