Flood Runoff Impacts Lake Superior

Sediment and Runoff Impacts Lake Superior

Several inches of rain and grounds saturated with water have had an impact on Lake Superior.

For the last several days the water near several harbors off the lake has taken on a reddish or brown tone.

Researchers from the Minnesota Sea Grant say that is because of the heavy rainfall, high winds, and sediment runoff that’s made it’s way from other areas into Lake Superior.

Flooding is also causing environmental concerns for Lake Superior.

“With the severe rain we saw sewage overflow and land water runoff,” said Hilare Sorensen. “We’re getting other stuff along with the clay and sediment in the water that definitely could have harmful impacts to the ecosystem.”

Researchers say it will take some time before they will know what exactly those harmful impacts could be.

The water on Lake Superior could stay brown several more days, even weeks.