The Great Lakes Basin is a large geographical area in North America that encompasses the five interconnected freshwater lakes: Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Erie, and Lake Ontario. This basin covers parts of the United States and Canada, providing vital water resources, habitats, and recreational opportunities for millions of people. The region is known for its diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, forests, and coastal areas. The Great Lakes are the largest group of freshwater lakes in the world by total area, playing a crucial role in the local economy through shipping, fishing, and tourism.