The Great Lakes Region Is Not a ‘Climate Haven’
The water-rich U.S. region may have cooler temperatures and sit high above sea level. But it can’t be a refuge for anyone if it doesn’t take action now to adapt to its own changing climate.
A view of Lake Superior, as seen from Duluth, Minnesota, a city that’s been touted as a potential climate haven.
Photographer: Ariana Lindquist/Bloomberg
I feel conflicted when I think about climate change and the Great Lakes. As the leader of an organization focused on protecting the lakes, I often hear about how our region is a “climate refuge,” and that when people from rapidly warming parts of the U.S. seek shelter further north, they’ll also bring their dollars and innovation. But this assessment doesn’t acknowledge what climate change has already wrought and the unpredictable reality we’re facing.
Great Lakes residents like to believe that our water will save us. I want this to be true, because I love this part of the world and stand in awe on the shores of the lakes. I want to believe that someday, more of America’s people will come to the Great Lakes for opportunity, a healthy environment in which to thrive and a “Blue Economy” that benefits our diverse and resilient communities because “water is the new oil.” Or that the growing season will extend by a month or two, cementing the vitality of our agriculture for another century.