How Can You Protect Lake Erie?

On Sept. 9, residents of Erie gathered at the Perry Monument Pavilion at Presque Isle State Park for PennFuture's "Save Our Lake Erie" event. Participants ranging from lifelong Erie natives to newcomers were eager to learn about the environmental factors threatening this beloved Great Lake and to share ideas about how to restore its health.

Speakers and attendees discussed how pollution, agricultural runoff and warming temperatures are degrading water quality, fueling harmful algae blooms and endangering fish species that once made Lake Erie a national fishing destination. They stressed that protecting the lake will require individual action and policy changes – from reducing fertilizer use and supporting clean-water regulations to engaging elected officials – to ensure Lake Erie remains a vibrant natural resource for recreation, fishing and local economies.