Protecting Lake Superior Water Quality

NPLSF
Aug 1
4 min read

Updated: Nov 4

From removing debris to preventing microplastics, you can help!

Lake Superior holds an extraordinary place among the world's freshwater resources—covering more surface area than any other freshwater lake, and containing nearly one-fifth of Earth's accessible fresh surface water.

While it appears pristine and pure, beneath its crystal-clear waves lies a growing environmental crisis: escalating pollution from plastics, industrial toxins, discarded tires, legacy waste, and invasive species.

On a recent episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, hosts Walt Lindala and Frida Waara spoke with Don Fassbender, widely known as "Diver Don." As the president of Great Lakes Scuba Diving and Lake Preservation, Don has spent decades bringing awareness to the urgent need to protect Lake Superior, through dedicated underwater cleanups and community advocacy.

Underwater Marine Debris: A Hidden Environmental Crisis

While we may think of water pollution as invisible chemicals, Diver Don revealed on the podcast, larger items frequently litter the lakebed: tires, refrigerators, batteries, bicycles, and even electronics.

Don recounted his firsthand experiences cleaning up these unusual findings, stating, "We removed, what, 14 tons of tires out of Marquette Lower Harbor alone over a period of about five years."

These tires, historically used as dock bumpers, now pose environmental hazards beneath the waterline.

Removing these bulky items isn't simple. It requires extensive diving operations, specialized equipment, and coordinated community support.

According to Don, "There's a lot of suction in there. You kind of just have to slowly work it out. There's a lot of time spent underwater trying to remove this stuff."

Microplastics and Other Pollutants

Every year, millions of pounds of plastic pollution find their way into the Great Lakes, with a substantial amount accumulating in Lake Superior. Unlike tires and other debris, plastics can be harder to remove. And unlike organic matter, plastic doesn't biodegrade—it simply fragments into smaller and smaller pieces, known as microplastics.

These tiny pollutants infiltrate the aquatic food chain, contaminate drinking water sources, and ultimately enter our bodies through consumption.

Studies conducted in recent years have reported alarmingly high concentrations of microplastics in Great Lakes fish, some among the highest observed anywhere in the world.

Single-use plastics—such as bottles, wrappers, and foam containers—contribute significantly to this persistent pollution issue, as stormwater runoff carries them into waterways feeding Lake Superior.

In addition, industrial activities around Lake Superior historically released hazardous contaminants like mercury, arsenic, lead, and dioxins into its waters. These pollutants originated from pulp mills, manufactured gas plants, and various industrial processes, with residues still embedded in lake sediments decades later.

Invasive Species: Compounding the Pollution Problem

Though not a traditional pollutant, invasive species like zebra and quagga mussels have drastically changed Lake Superior’s ecology, altering water clarity and potentially increasing the spread and impact of existing pollutants. These species disrupt the natural balance, further complicating conservation and cleanup efforts.

NPLSF has worked for years to reduce the spread of invasive species from Great Lakes ships that pick up ballast water in more polluted lakes and release it in Lake Superior. You can learn more about our work in this story.

Cleanup and Conservation: How You Can Help

Encouragingly, there are numerous active projects and organizations dedicated to restoring Lake Superior's environmental health. Your personal actions can also significantly impact Lake Superior's future:

Limit Single-Use Plastics: Choose reusable alternatives for water bottles, shopping bags, and containers.
Join Local Cleanups: Participate in beach cleanups or assist divers by transporting collected debris to shore.
Support Environmental Policies: Advocate for regulations reducing plastic production, pollution control measures, and funding for restoration projects.
Contribute to Nonprofits: Financially support organizations focused on Great Lakes conservation and cleanup efforts.
Educate and Inform: Share knowledge about pollution threats and sustainable practices with friends, family, and your community.

Dive Deeper: Learn More Through the Lake Superior Podcast

To explore this critical topic further, tune into the Lake Superior Podcast episode featuring Diver Don Fassbender. His stories reveal firsthand experiences and insights into the hidden pollution crisis beneath Lake Superior's waves, and the tremendous effort required to combat it.

Preserving Lake Superior for Generations

Despite its majestic beauty and global significance, Lake Superior faces severe pollution threats that demand immediate attention and sustained action. Through the inspiring efforts of dedicated individuals like Diver Don Fassbender, community volunteers, nonprofit organizations, and informed citizens, we can address these challenges.

Your involvement matters. Every step towards reducing pollution, supporting cleanups, and raising awareness ensures Lake Superior remains a thriving ecosystem and precious freshwater resource for future generations.

FAQ: Common Questions About Lake Superior Pollution

Is it safe to swim in Lake Superior despite pollution concerns?

Generally, swimming in Lake Superior remains safe, with minimal risks associated with short-term exposure. The primary concern relates to eating contaminated fish or drinking untreated water.

What are microplastics, and why should we be concerned?

Microplastics are tiny plastic fragments, smaller than 5 mm, formed from larger plastics breaking down. They infiltrate water supplies, marine food chains, and human diets, posing long-term health risks.

Can I volunteer to help with cleanup efforts even if I don’t scuba dive?

Absolutely! Non-divers are crucial to cleanup efforts. You can assist from the shore, transport debris by kayak or boat, participate in local beach cleanups, or help with fundraising and awareness campaigns.

How can policymakers better address Lake Superior pollution?

Policymakers can pass legislation to ban microplastics and single-use plastics, enforce industrial responsibility for pollution cleanup, and ensure consistent funding for ecological restoration projects across the Great Lakes.

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About The NPLSF

The National Parks of Lake Superior Foundation (NPLSF) exists to provide financial support for projects and programs that preserve the natural resources and cultural heritage of the five Lake Superior national parks: Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Grand Portage National Monument, Isle Royale National Park, Keweenaw National Historical Park, and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

Funded through grants and private donations, NPLSF projects and programs ensure that these great parks and historic sites are maintained for the enjoyment of all current and future visitors.

To learn how you can support our work visit nplsf.org/donate.