Why Should We Care About Our Great Lakes Coasts
The binational Great Lakes Basin,
representing the world’s largest fresh water system and the nation’s fourth
largest coastline, supports the livelihood and activities of 10 percent of the
U.S. and 25 percent of the Canadian populations. The environmental and economic
vitality of the Great Lakes depends on the ecological state of the lakes,
including fish and wildlife communities and associated habitats. As a full
partner with States, Tribes, local governments, academia, industry and citizen
groups, the Service brings a variety of tools to bear on the most pressing fish
and wildlife issues facing the basin.
Threats To Coastal Habitats
Numerous fish and wildlife species and their habitats within the Great Lakes
Basin face serious threats from human population growth and the development and
disturbance that are often a consequence of growth. Because
coastal areas have the highest population densities in the country and are
expected to face continuing population pressures, there is a strong need for
action to protect and restore coastal habitats.
The Program is Guided by Three
Ecological Principles
1) Maintain natural coastal
ecosystem diversity, functions and productivity
2) Promote natural, self-sustaining
populations of native species within their historic ranges
3) Provide for ecologically sound
levels of public use, economic benefits, and the enjoyment of natural
resources
Please select from the links above
to learn more about the recent accomplishments of the program,
qualification factors and submission procedures.