Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore appears to be very sturdy when we think of its deep forests, immense dunes, imposing bluffs, picturesque lakes and streams, and the great length of the Lake Michigan horizon. The landscape has endured storm winds and waves, ice, and has escaped the large forest fires of other regions.
But we also see the very fragile nature of this ecosystem. Many of the factors of change are recent impacts of humans, their habits, demands and carelessness. There are acute and catastrophic impacts as well as creeping and accumulative impairments in the introduction of exotic plants and animals whether by intention or accident.
Increases in development and traffic in the area affect water quality. Local factors as well as distant conditions determine air quality. Increased lighting from urbanization diminishes the quality of the night sky. Automobile traffic and water traffic add pollutants to the air and water. These factors as well as recent popularity of ultra-light aircraft over the park increase noise levels and disturbance to wildlife.
Insects and forest diseases (many exotics) are factors of constant disturbance with potential for catastrophe. The park is currently threatened by beech bark disease, oak wilt, purple loosestrife, garlic mustard, and zebra mussles among many other exotics. Gypsy moths have threatened all of Michigan in cycles and are presently in the park but have not yet accounted for large scale defoliation.
