Lake Champlain

By: Katelin Kukk

Lake Champlain is the 6^th largest inland body of water, covering an area of 435 square miles and stretching across Vermont, New York, and Quebec. At one point, it almost became one of the Great Lakes, but its title only lasted 18 days after residents felt it should be its own “great lake” due to how unique it is. Although the title was very short-lived, it brought a lot of attention to this lake and is now a popular vacation destination.

Rich in diversity, Lake Champlain hosts 90 species of freshwater game and non-game fish, making it a popular spot for fishing. The lake also serves as a stop for migratory waterfowl, with between 20,000 to 40,000 birds during fall migration. In addition to its ecological value, the lake serves as a major drinking source for nearly 200,000 people in surrounding communities.

Despite its importance and beauty, Lake Champlain faces challenges with water quality. Over the years, its quality has declined due to the presence of toxins and pollutants. This pollution mostly stems from waste sites and landfills due to their proximity to the lake’s shoreline. They not only threaten aquatic life but also the safety of drinking water. Efforts have been made to protect the lake, and hopefully, with stricter rules, this lake can thrive for many years to come.