The number of days per year with ice cover has decreased by 22 percent since the mid-1800s. Global warming is likely to bring many changes to the nation. The United States as a whole is in a strong economic position to adapt to many of these changes, but adaptation is often expensive, not always possible or successful, and during transitions ecosystems, communities, and individuals could suffer. Moreover, national impact summaries disguise local dislocations and disruptions to the ways we live, work and recreate.
Climate change adds a serious stress to our already threatened resources and treasured places.
Overall impact statements also mask significant opportunities. To minimize the negative changes and make the most of the positive changes we need to take a close look at how climate change will affect each region. While being the linchpin for drinking water, hydroelectric power, commercial shipping, and recreation, the region also houses an amazingly diverse array of plants and wildlife. With scenic lakeshores, unique wildlife, and diverse recreational opportunities drawing millions of tourists annually, problems such as urban sprawl, air and water pollution, and habitat fragmentation are already stressing ecosystems of the Great Lakes region. Global climate change looms as an additional threat on the region's economy, population and wildlife by changing climate patterns and compounding the negative effects of current environmental problems.