# Lake Erie

> one of the Great Lakes in North America

**Wikidata**: [Q5492](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q5492)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_Erie)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/lake-erie

## Summary
Lake Erie is one of the five Great Lakes of North America, located on the international border between Canada and the United States. It is the fourth-largest lake by surface area among the Great Lakes and serves as a vital freshwater resource, supporting ecosystems, shipping, and tourism in the region.

## Key Facts
- **Classification**: One of the Great Lakes in North America.
- **Location**: Bordered by Canada (Ontario) to the north and the United States (Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York) to the south and west.
- **Coordinates**: Approximately 42.25°N latitude and 80.9997°W longitude.
- **Part of**: The Great Lakes system, which includes Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Ontario, and Lake Erie.
- **Bordered by**: The Canada–United States border, one of the longest international borders in the world.
- **Connected to**: Erie County in New York (established 1821), Erie County in Pennsylvania (established 1800), Lake County in Ohio (established 1840), and the Erie Canal in New York.
- **Related entities**: Ontario (Canada), Michigan, Pennsylvania, New York, and Ohio (United States).
- **Sitelink count**: 101 (Wikipedia links).

## FAQs
**What is Lake Erie?**
Lake Erie is one of the five Great Lakes of North America, located on the border between Canada and the United States. It is the fourth-largest lake by surface area in the Great Lakes system and plays a crucial role in regional ecosystems, shipping, and tourism.

**Where is Lake Erie located?**
Lake Erie is situated on the international border between Canada (Ontario) and the United States (Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York). Its coordinates are approximately 42.25°N latitude and 80.9997°W longitude.

**What are the key features of Lake Erie?**
Lake Erie is part of the Great Lakes system and is bordered by the Canada–United States border. It is connected to several counties and regions, including Erie County in New York, Erie County in Pennsylvania, and Lake County in Ohio. The lake is also linked to the Erie Canal, a historic waterway in New York.

**What is the significance of Lake Erie?**
Lake Erie is a vital freshwater resource that supports ecosystems, shipping, and tourism in the Great Lakes region. It serves as a natural border between Canada and the United States and is connected to several important counties and transportation routes, including the Erie Canal.

**What are the related entities associated with Lake Erie?**
Lake Erie is associated with several entities, including Ontario (Canada), Michigan, Pennsylvania, New York, and Ohio (United States). It is also connected to Erie County in New York, Erie County in Pennsylvania, Lake County in Ohio, and the Erie Canal in New York.

## Why It Matters
Lake Erie is a critical component of the Great Lakes system, providing essential freshwater resources for ecosystems, shipping, and tourism in North America. Its strategic location on the Canada–United States border makes it a significant natural and economic asset for both countries. The lake supports diverse ecosystems, facilitates international trade, and serves as a recreational hub for millions of people. Additionally, Lake Erie's connection to key regions and transportation routes, such as the Erie Canal, underscores its importance in regional development and connectivity.

## Notable For
- **Great Lakes System**: One of the five Great Lakes of North America, the fourth-largest by surface area.
- **International Border**: Located on the Canada–United States border, serving as a natural boundary between the two countries.
- **Freshwater Resource**: A vital source of freshwater for ecosystems, shipping, and tourism in the region.
- **Connected Regions**: Linked to several important counties and regions, including Erie County in New York, Erie County in Pennsylvania, and Lake County in Ohio.
- **Erie Canal**: Connected to the historic Erie Canal, a key waterway in New York that facilitated trade and transportation in the 19th century.
- **Ecosystem Support**: Supports diverse ecosystems and provides habitats for numerous species of fish, birds, and other wildlife.
- **Recreational Hub**: A popular destination for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities, attracting millions of visitors annually.

## Body
### Geography and Location
Lake Erie is one of the five Great Lakes of North America, located on the international border between Canada (Ontario) and the United States (Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York). It is the fourth-largest lake by surface area in the Great Lakes system and is situated at approximately 42.25°N latitude and 80.9997°W longitude. The lake serves as a natural boundary between the two countries and is a vital freshwater resource for the region.

### Great Lakes System
Lake Erie is part of the Great Lakes system, which includes Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Ontario, and Lake Erie. These lakes are among the largest freshwater bodies in the world and play a crucial role in regional ecosystems, shipping, and tourism. Lake Erie is the fourth-largest lake by surface area in this system and is connected to several important counties and regions.

### Bordered by Canada and the United States
Lake Erie is bordered by Canada (Ontario) to the north and the United States (Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York) to the south and west. This international border is one of the longest in the world and underscores the lake's significance as a natural and economic asset for both countries. The lake facilitates international trade and serves as a recreational hub for millions of people.

### Connected Regions
Lake Erie is connected to several important counties and regions, including:
- **Erie County, New York**: Established in 1821, Erie County is located in western New York and is home to the city of Buffalo.
- **Erie County, Pennsylvania**: Established in 1800, Erie County is located in northwestern Pennsylvania and is home to the city of Erie.
- **Lake County, Ohio**: Established in 1840, Lake County is located in northeastern Ohio and is part of the Greater Cleveland area.
- **Erie Canal**: A historic waterway in New York that facilitated trade and transportation in the 19th century, connecting the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean.

### Ecosystem and Wildlife
Lake Erie supports diverse ecosystems and provides habitats for numerous species of fish, birds, and other wildlife. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including walleye, perch, and smallmouth bass, making it a popular destination for fishing. The lake also supports a range of bird species, including bald eagles, ospreys, and various waterfowl.

### Recreational Activities
Lake Erie is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities. The lake attracts millions of visitors annually, who enjoy its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. The lake's shoreline is dotted with parks, beaches, and marinas, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities.

### Economic Importance
Lake Erie plays a crucial role in the regional economy, supporting industries such as shipping, tourism, and fishing. The lake facilitates international trade between Canada and the United States, with numerous ports and harbors located along its shoreline. The lake also supports a thriving tourism industry, with millions of visitors flocking to its shores each year.

### Related Entities
Lake Erie is associated with several entities, including:
- **Ontario, Canada**: A province of Canada that borders Lake Erie to the north.
- **Michigan, United States**: A state of the United States that borders Lake Erie to the west.
- **Ohio, United States**: A state of the United States that borders Lake Erie to the south.
- **Pennsylvania, United States**: A state of the United States that borders Lake Erie to the southeast.
- **New York, United States**: A state of the United States that borders Lake Erie to the east.

### Environmental Challenges
Lake Erie faces several environmental challenges, including pollution, invasive species, and climate change. Efforts are underway to address these issues and protect the lake's ecosystems and water quality. These efforts include monitoring water quality, controlling invasive species, and promoting sustainable practices.

### Historical Significance
Lake Erie has played a significant role in the history of North America, serving as a vital transportation route and a source of freshwater for indigenous peoples and early settlers. The lake has been the site of numerous historical events, including the War of 1812 and the development of the Erie Canal, which facilitated trade and transportation in the 19th century.

### Future Prospects
Lake Erie continues to be a vital resource for the Great Lakes region, supporting ecosystems, shipping, and tourism. Efforts to protect the lake's ecosystems and water quality are ongoing, ensuring that it remains a valuable asset for future generations. The lake's strategic location and economic importance make it a key player in the regional and national economy.

## References

1. GeoNames
2. Geographic Names Information System. 1981
3. Source
4. Ontario Geographic Names Map Viewer
5. The National Map
6. datos.bne.es
7. Virtual International Authority File
8. [BnF authorities](https://data.bnf.fr/ark:/12148/cb153524976)
9. [BnF authorities](https://data.bnf.fr/ark:/12148/cb12556343w)
10. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
11. AGROVOC
12. BabelNet
13. [Source](https://www.epa.gov/greatlakes/physical-features-great-lakes)
14. Quora
15. [Source](https://www.cabi.org/cabithesaurus/mtwdk.exe?k=default&l=60&w=171612&s=5&t=2)
16. FactGrid
17. National Library of Israel Names and Subjects Authority File
18. KBpedia