Great Lakes' ice cover decline impacts local businesses, ecosystems, and shipping seasons.

A below-average ice cover on the Great Lakes is negatively affecting local businesses. A new report by Climate Central notes that all five lakes have experienced a significant decrease in ice cover over the past decades, with Lake Superior's coverage diminishing by about 30% since 1973. The reduced ice coverage and fewer frozen days are impacting outdoor recreation, educational activities, and ecosystem health. Shipping seasons may also be extended as a result of this trend.

February 13, 2024
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