Most of Earth's liquid accessible freshwater is located in just a handful of lakes. These systems are scientifically fascinating and immensely valuable to society. Pressures on them include toxins, invasive species, climate change, fisheries harvest, and excessive nutrients. Science is the foundation for managing and protecting these beautiful and fascinating places.
The Large Lakes Observatory is dedicated to performing innovative, cross-disciplinary research, education, and outreach that advance scientific understanding of Earth’s large lakes for the benefit of society and the sustainability of freshwaters.
To do this, we use approaches from across limnology, environmental science, and oceanography. Our faculty and students are uniquely qualified and equipped to advance our understanding of Earth's largest lakes.