Our Most Precious Resource
Fresh water is one of the most precious and valuable resources needed by humankind. Less than one percent of Earth's water is fresh, liquid, and accessible, and most of that is found in huge lakes scattered around the globe. LLO has a unique mission: to perform scientific study of the largest lakes of Earth. LLO researchers are dedicated to expanding and communicating knowledge about the past, present and future of these critical freshwater systems.
LLO stands as one of the university’s premier research units focused on water. Its scientific contributions have had a global impact, deepening our knowledge of freshwater systems and their importance to life on our planet.
Using the latest technology
LLO faculty, staff, and students observe the world’s large lakes not only with their own eyes, but also through advanced observational tools that extend their senses in remarkable ways. Exploring these vast and often remote environments requires both uncommon skills and specialized equipment. Coordinated research teams use remote and autonomous sensors to gather data far beyond what a single observer could capture in real time. They deploy cutting-edge instruments to measure the chemistry, biology, and physics of these freshwater systems. These tools, while not commonly available, are essential to the work of LLO scientists and central to their mission of understanding large lakes.
We invite you to learn more about research, education and outreach at LLO or contact us for further information.