Since prehistoric times, lakes and ponds have played an important role in the lives of the people who lived in the surrounding region.

Impact of Lakes and Ponds on Human Life

People use lakes and ponds for water and food, for recreation and building sites, for transportation, and for industrial purposes.

Water Many lakes, such as Lake Michigan, are sources of drinking water, as well as water for such things as bathing, laundry, and power generation for nearby communities. The world's use of water has tripled since 1950 and, in the United States alone, each person uses an average of 130 gallons of fresh water each day. In developed countries, about half the supply is used by industry. In less wealthy countries, 90 percent is used for crops and irrigation.

Food The fish and plants in lakes and ponds are often a source of food for humans. Although most...