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Boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, camping and wildlife are all part of Michigan’s coasts and the Great Lakes. Each Great Lake is unique, which can make living in and learning about the lakes fun and fascinating.
What Makes the Great Lakes Great?
Boy with a bucket of water next to a globe Volume of fresh water
Our planet is comprised of more than 70% water. How much of that is fresh water and how much is salt water? What portion do the Great Lakes contribute? See: Water Quantity Lesson
Great Lakes Basin Map Overall size
The Lakes are often called freshwater seas because people viewing them for the first time are amazed they cannot see across to the other shoreline. See: Great Lakes Facts
Ice

Formed by glaciers
About 14,000 years ago, the Great Lakes region was covered with ice. As the glaciers melted, the water left behind formed the Great Lakes. And the unique terrain provided habitat to support many species. Now, more than 3,500 species of plants and animals live in the Great Lakes basin. See: Great Lakes Species
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Michigan Sea Grant enhances the sustainability of Michigan’s coastal communities, residents, and businesses through research, outreach and education.
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