2016 Lake Superior Center Authority - Great Lakes Aquarium

The large lakes of the world hold more than two-thirds of the freshwater on the planet. They are home to diverse populations of people, plants and wildlife. There are 253 large lakes around the world designated as being a large lake, or lake of more than 500 km2 (193 mi2) in size. These bodies of water will become an increasing important part of the conversation in coming years. Global water resources are limited. Access to safe drinking water and aquatic food sources is already a concern for millions of people. The severity of this issue will likely increase due to the impacts of climate change, increased water use, and the contamination of waterways in the future. It is vital that our global community recognizes and celebrates the value of freshwater in the world, taking actions to preserve, clean and protect it.

Lake Superior Center dba Great Lakes Aquarium is ready to share this story. We are located in Duluth, Minnesota on the shores of Lake Superior. Duluth is also the home to the Large Lakes Observatory, the only research institute in North America focused on observing and understanding large lakes of the world. With fifteen years of storytelling, water education and exhibit design experience, our organization has a successful track record of producing high quality products. This story, this location, this collaboration and application of time and resources is a natural fit. The proposed exhibit will occupy a 3,550 square foot gallery that overlooks the Duluth-Superior Harbor and Duluth’s historic Aerial Lift Bridge. The gallery features floor to ceiling windows that provide significant natural light and an excellent view of and access to the waterfront.