Living with the Lakes
Understanding and Adapting to Great Lakes Water Level Changes
The Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River system is a dynamic environment, still evolving over time. Ever since the last glaciers retreated more than 10,000 years ago, Great Lakes water levels and outflows have varied dramatically. The Great Lakes affect human activities and all aspects of the natural environment, from weather and climate, to wildlife and habitat. Unlike oceans, where tides are constant and predictable, water levels on the Great Lakes can vary significantly in frequency and magnitude making them difficult to accurately predict.

Order a hardcopy edition
You can order a hardcopy edition online from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

• Cover and Table of Contents (PDF, ~4.2 MB)


• Introduction (PDF, ~2.3 MB)
  The Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River system, how the lakes were formed, people and the Great Lakes, consumptive and nonconsumptive uses of water


• Natural Factors (PDF, ~1.3 MB)
  The hydrologic cycle, water level fluctuations, weather


• Human Influence on the System (PDF, ~1.6 MB)
  Lake Superior and St. Marys River; St. Clair River, Lake St. Clair and Detroit River; Niagara River; Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence Seaway and Power Project; diversions


• Controlling Water Levels (PDF, ~1 MB)
  Regulating outflows, measuring water levels, water level forecasting


• Effects of Lake Level Fluctuations (PDF, ~1.4 MB)
  Erosion processes, habitat diversity, commercial shipping and recreational boating


• Living Along the Shoreline (PDF, ~1.1 MB)
  Structural and nonstructural options for shoreline protection


• Points of Contact (PDF, ~1 MB)


• Additional Resources (PDF, ~1 MB)