A Virtual Dive Into the Great Lakes' Depths: Exploring the Impact of Water Disappearance

Imagine a world where all the water in the Great Lakes suddenly vanished. This is not just a theoretical scenario; it offers a fascinating glimpse into the intriguing and largely unexplored depths beneath the surface. In this article, we will explore what would be found on the lake’s floor if the water were to disappear, delving into historical shipwrecks and maritime mysteries.

The Underwater Treasures of the Great Lakes

Should the water of the Great Lakes suddenly disappear, the lake bottom would reveal more than just the remnants of what were once under the water. When we exclude all the humorous and sarcastic elements, it is highly probable that various sunken treasures, historic artifacts, and forgotten relics would come to light. These include underwater vegetation, fish, and, perhaps most intriguing of all, shipwrecks.

Exploring Shipwrecks and Maritime History

The Edmund Fitzgerald - One of the most famous and tragic shipwrecks in Great Lakes history is the SS Edmund Fitzgerald, which sank during a storm on November 10, 1975, in Lake Superior. The vessel was a part of the ore carrier trade that brought iron ore from the iron mines of Minnesota to steel mills in the Upper Midwest and southeastern Canada. The exact cause of the sinking remains a mystery, with theories ranging from hull failure to equipment malfunctions.

Other notable shipwrecks include:

SS Junius B. Sills: A cargo ship that sunk in 1926 in Lake Michigan and was recovered in 1969. SS Eastland: A passenger ship that capsized in 1915 on the Chicago River during a fitting in preparation for a river tour but is often considered a Great Lakes shipwreck because it was bound for the lake at the time. SS Cyclone Queen: An oilfield supply vessel that sank in 1936 while traveling on Lake Superior.

These wrecks not only represent tragic human stories but also significant contributions to the maritime history of the Great Lakes.

Untold Stories of Tragic Losses

The disappearance of the water would also expose the human tragedies that occurred during the Great Lakes' history. For example, the Blue Zone refers to a particularly dangerous portion of Lake Superior's eastern side, known for its steep drop-offs and sudden changes in weather. The free fall that occurs here can be fatal, and it is not uncommon for accidents and drownings to happen in this area. If the water were to disappear, evidence of these falls and recovery operations might surface.

Environmental and Ecological Impact

In addition to the historical remains, the disappearance of the water would reveal the underwater ecosystem that exists beneath the surface. Various types of underwater flora and fauna, such as seaweed and local fish species, would be visible. This underwater world includes unique species adapted to the cold, freshwater environment and habitats that have evolved over millennia.

Seaweed and fish would likely be the most common findings. Seaweed, which thrives in deep, cool waters, would be easily visible if the water were to disappear. The fish species found in the Great Lakes range from small, hardy minnows to larger game fish like salmon, trout, and bass.

Historical and Modern Diversions

In a similar vein, remnants of historical diving equipment and modern recreational gear might also be uncovered. Items like screwdrivers, wrenches, and even the winch handles mentioned in the humorous content would likely be found.

Winch handles and other tools would provide evidence of the intense labor involved in mining and industrial activities that took place around the Great Lakes. The remnants of giant air bags from the Toronto islands, if they had burst, would also be an interesting find. The air bags were used for various purposes, from shipping to water sports, and their eventual decompression would have left a visible mark on the lake bottom.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Maritime Adventure

The Great Lakes are a vast and mysterious body of water, and the disappearance of their surface would undoubtedly reveal a treasure trove of historical artifacts and natural wonders. The ship wrecks, including that of the Edmund Fitzgerald, the ecological diversity beneath the waves, and the remnants of human endeavors would paint a vivid picture of the region's rich maritime history. This hypothetical scenario serves as a reminder of the incredible exploration and discovery that awaits us in the depths of the Great Lakes.