The Great Lakes have a unique ecosystem with over 250 species of fish. These include Atlantic salmon, brook trout, Chinook and Coho salmon, lake trout, walleye, and freshwater drum. In addition, there are many different kinds of birds, including whooping cranes, wood ducks, bald eagles, and piping plovers. The Great Adaptation Plan aims to reduce the threats associated with climate change and enhance Canada’s ability to cope with it.
Adaptation plans must consider the ramifications of climate change on the region’s ecosystems. The first step is to address the underlying causes of these changes. One of these is the impact of increased CO2 levels. In the past, such changes occurred when water temperatures were lower than 39degF. As a result, the turnover of the water carried nutrients and oxygen from the bottom to the surface. This process is happening less often today, but it will occur more frequently in the future.
Another important factor affecting lakes is climate change. In the past, the temperature of the lakes was lower than 39degF. Now, when the temperature rises above that level, the water recirculates. This mixing transports oxygen and nutrients from the bottom to the surface. But this seasonal process is expected to change more often. If we do not adapt, the water will evaporate faster, making the ecosystem more vulnerable.
An additional factor that affects Great Lakes’ biological processes is water turnover. In addition to the turnover of water, this seasonal process occurs twice a year, when water temperatures drop below 39degF and rise above that temperature. The mixing process carries oxygen and nutrients from the surface to the bottom of the lake. However, climate change projections predict a longer overturn season that occurs earlier in the spring and later in the fall.
Ontario is working to protect interconnected watersheds of the Great Lakes basin and protect the groundwater beneath the Great and southeastern Ontario. This binational partnership prioritizes preventing pollution and minimizing the effects of climate change. This ongoing collaboration is vital to safeguard the shared waters of the Great and other nations in the region. There are a number of other benefits associated with the Great and Canadian lakes. The binational partnership is committed to maintaining water quality.
As the lakes undergo physical changes due to climate change, the water levels and the ice cover will also change. These changes affect fishes and phytoplankton. If the levels of these nutrients are not preserved, the fishes will not survive and their habitats will become overpopulated. Eventually, this will affect the biodiversity and health of the lakes. There will be less water and the environment will suffer.
The plan’s approach to addressing climate change is critical for the region. Despite the fact that climate change is a global issue, it is important to ensure that we continue to protect the region’s unique watersheds and groundwater from pollution. Managing the watersheds is vital to preserving the ecosystem and minimizing the negative impacts of climate change. By collaborating with each other, the provinces will protect the Great Lakes and their people.
In addition to watershed management, the Great Lakes have significant environmental concerns. The Great North American continent has the largest number of lakes in the world, which are home to 40 million people. This region is also home to ninety percent of the population of Ontario and 40% of Canada. In total, there are over 4,000 species of fish in the basin. As the climate changes, these animals need to adjust to the changing conditions.
The Great Lakes are unique in that they are dependent on climate to survive. The changes in temperature will affect the water’s biological activity, which affects fishes and algae. Despite the challenges, there is much hope for the future. The new climate has pushed some species of fish to their ranges, which may cause major problems for them and humans. This region has been home to some of the most endangered animals in the world.