Shedd's Great Lakes Program
Shedd Aquarium is committed to protecting the Great Lakes.
Shedd Aquarium is committed to protecting the Great Lakes.
We conduct field research and collaborate with other Great Lakes organizations. We work with leaders in the Great Lakes community—scientists, educators, government officials, businesspeople, citizens—to forge solutions to tomorrow’s conservation challenges. And we offer stimulating programs and immersive experiences to learners of all ages.
At Shedd we raise awareness about threats to Great Lakes ecosystems and inspire our guests to make a difference, in their backyards and across the basin.
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Key Issues in Great Lakes Conservation
Shedd focuses on four issues that affect everyone and everything in the Great Lakes region, from the smallest freshwater mussel to the residents of the largest city on the shoreline.
Ecological Separation
Restoring the natural separation of habitats helps prevent invasive species from entering our local waterways. We help people understand how ecological separation works and how it could be applied to our region through learning programs, media outreach and collaboration with other Great Lakes organizations.
Invasive Species
The introduction of non-native species into our Great Lakes ecosystems threatens the health of native wildlife—and the health of the ecosystem we depend on. By using our expertise in local aquatic systems, conducting our own field studies and partnering with other researchers, and—most important—talking with people about preventing the spread of invasives, we are contributing to solutions to this serious Great Lakes issue.
Native Species
Of the more than 1,000 species living in or near the lakes, more than 200 are globally rare. Shedd’s field studies of native species are helping to protect native populations and prevent new and escalated threatened or endangered species listings. We also create meaningful experiences to inspire people to connect with and celebrate native Great Lakes species.
Habitat Restoration
Critical habitats and ecosystems throughout the Great Lakes basin are at risk due to development, pollution and climate change. Shedd is advancing the restoration of these habitats by lending its expertise and resources to projects and collaborations.
It’s not too late to do your part to help the Great Lakes. Learn what you can do to help at home and at play.
Look more closely at the challenges to the lakes.
You can help the Great Lakes by donating to Shedd Aquarium's annual fund. Donations to Shedd support animal care, education programs, community access, sustainability practices and conservation initiatives. Become a partner in all that Shedd does—please give now.
Conservator Partners:
The Great Lakes Conservation Awareness Initiative is generously supported by:
Aurelio’s Pizza
Helen M. Harrison Foundation
HSBC - North America
Searle Funds at The Chicago Community Trust
This project has been made possible with support of the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation.
This website was prepared by the Shedd Aquarium Society under award NA09SEC4690042 from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), U.S. Department of Commerce. The statements, findings, conclusions and recommendations are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) or the U.S. Department of Commerce.
Help Shedd restore our local habitats
Great Lakes Program
Read more about our Great Lakes program (PDF).
