An initiative to map the entire bottom of the Great Lakes is gaining traction due to its potential benefits for fishing, shipping, and environmental management. Led by the Great Lakes Observing System, the project seeks to chart the lakebed, of which only 15% is currently mapped. This effort aims to uncover critical information about underwater topography, shipwrecks and infrastructure.
The Great Lakes’ diverse ecosystems are home to various species, and a comprehensive mapping could provide insights into the impacts of climate change, invasive species and pollution.
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Using advanced sonar and robotic technology, scientists will scan the depths of the five lakes, which span over 94,000 square miles — an area nearly the size of Oregon — and hold 21% of the world’s freshwater.
A federal bill has allocated $200 million toward completing the mapping by 2030. Advocates of the project argue that it will not only help protect the lakes’ ecosystems but also enhance navigation safety.
