Great Lakes

Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Resources has the mandate to protect the waters, fish, plants and animals of our Great Lakes for future generations to use and enjoy.

• The Great Lakes form the largest system of freshwater lakes in the world. Ontario’s economy and our way of life are both closely tied to their resources. Learn more about the importance of the Great Lakes to Ontario.
• Ontario’s Great Lakes are as unique as your thumbprint. Each of our Great Lakes — Superior, Huron, Erie and Ontario — has its own special character and faces its own distinct challenges. Read about each lake’s special features and challenges.
• The Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin contains 20 per cent of the world’s fresh water. It holds 95 per cent of North America’s fresh surface water. With the demand for fresh water increasing, it’s important to protect our Great Lakes Basin water supply. Find out more about our Great Lakes water supply and efforts to protect it.
• The Great Lakes Ecosystem is one of the most biologically rich regions in Canada. Many local, provincial and international partners work together to protect and restore the richness of life that depends on the Great Lakes’ waters. Learn about efforts to protect biodiversity through stewardship in and around the Great Lakes.
• The Great Lakes are home to more than 150 species of fish. Fishing activities on the Great Lakes contribute millions of dollars each year to the region’s economy. Find out more about how we manage fisheries on the Great Lakes.
• Biologists and scientists keep a close watch on the health of the many ecosystems that depend on the Great Lakes. The information they gather helps managers determine how best to protect, restore or sustain the fish, wildlife and plants of these ecosystems. Read about how we monitor, research and report on the health of Great Lakes ecosystems.
• You may think the Great Lakes are only about water and fish. But they aren’t. They are sources of renewable and non-renewable energy – hydroelectric, wind, crude oil and natural gas. Learn more about sources of energy in the Great Lakes region.
• The American eel in the Lake Ontario-St. Lawrence River region needs protection and is being considered for designation under both the Canadian Species at Risk Act and the U.S. Endangered Species Act. Find out more about this unusual Great Lakes fish species.