The Great Lakes: chemical hot spot

Over 360 chemical compounds that have been identified in the Great Lakes. Many are persistent toxic chemicals – alkylated lead, benzo(a)pyrene, DDT, mercury and mirex – potentially dangerous to humans and already destructive to the aquatic ecosystems.

For example, various species of fish now suffer from tumours and lesions, and their reproductive capacities are decreasing. Populations of fish consuming birds and mammals also seem to be on the decline. Of the ten most highly valued species of fish in Lake Ontario, seven have now almost totally vanished.

See also: Lakes section and
Great Lakes Sustainability Fund 

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