Lake Superior is getting warmer, and we should be concerned. Growing up in Duluth, I know the importance the lake has in our community. It is a staple; everyone knows Duluth as the city on Lake Superior. Lake Superior is an excellent destination for tourists, and changes in the lake can affect our local economy.
To address the changes in the lake, we need to look at the effects climate change has on our natural wonder. According to the University of Minnesota Duluth, our lake is one of the fastest-warming lakes in the world. It has increased in temperature 2 degrees fahrenheit every decade since 1980. The lake also has been seeing decreased ice cover in winter, limiting the time the beloved Bayfield ice caves are open — if they can open at all. The amount of time they are open is already so limited.
Changes in the lake are affecting more than just the lake. UMD says climate change is affecting regions around Lake Superior. There are increased storms, warmer annual temperatures, drier summers, longer growing seasons, more rain in winter, and more. Some of these sound like positives, but in the long run they all have adverse effects.
We need to address climate change if we want to keep our beautiful natural wonders intact. Climate change is a huge issue, and we can all do something about it, be it carpooling, reducing our consumption of disposable products, or turning off lights when leaving rooms. If we do nothing, we have no idea what the future holds. I want my grandchildren to be able to enjoy all the beautiful things Duluth has to offer, including the lake.
I hope others agree and want to do something to ensure a bright future for our great city.
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Shelby Ruotsalainen
Duluth
