Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book illuminates the interconnected nature of habitat, biodiversity, and species extirpation and extinction challenges in the transborder Great Lakes Basin, which holds more than 20 percent of the worlds freshwater. It highlights recent research into those challenges from multiple disciplines in the natural and social sciences. The book then provides political, cultural, economic, and social contexts for recognizing and addressing those problems and challenges. It also discusses the impact of dam removal projects on native and invasive fish species, the state of irrigation in the Great Lakes Basin, and the construction and restoration of reefs to provide safe harbors and enhance recreational fisheries. The book highlights research on toxicants and chemicals of emerging concern; interactions among nutrient pollution, invasive species, and climate change; and efforts to save black ash as a Native American cultural resource from the destructive invasive emerald ash borer.