The Great Lakes
The Great Lakes basin (the lakes plus the area of land draining into the lakes) contains 18% of the world's fresh surface water and is home to almost a third of the Canadian population.
As well as providing drinking water, the Great Lakes, which straddle the Canada-United States border, have played a major role in the development of both countries. They allow goods to be shipped to and from the heart of the continent; they are a source of hydroelectricity; and they are the site of industrial, commercial, agricultural, and urban development. The Great Lakes also provide an array of recreational opportunities.
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