A compelling exploration of Lake Superior’s conservation recovery and what it can teach us in the face of climate change
Lake Superior, the largest lake in the world, has had a remarkable
history, including resource extraction and industrial exploitation that
caused nearly irreversible degradation. But in the past fifty years it
has experienced a remarkable recovery and rebirth. In this important
book, leading environmental historian Nancy Langston offers a rich
portrait of the lake’s environmental and social history, asking what
lessons we should take from the conservation recovery as this
extraordinary lake faces new environmental threats.
In her
insightful exploration, Langston reveals hope in ecosystem resilience
and the power of community advocacy, noting ways Lake Superior has
rebounded from the effects of deforestation and toxic waste wrought by
mining and paper manufacturing. Yet, despite the lake’s resilience,
threats persist. Langston cautions readers regarding new mining
interests and persistent toxic pollutants that are mobilizing with
climate change.
