Presque Isle
© Pete Woods Presque Isle
Presque Isle, a sand spit that extends into Lake Erie, is a unique complex of beaches, sand dunes, and sandplains that is constantly being eroded and re-deposited by the action of lake currents, waves, and storms. The spit was built into Lake Erie by wind and wave action and longshore drift since the rise of lake level after retreat of the last continental glacier about 14,000 years ago. The dynamic nature of these shorelines contributes greatly to the region’s unique species diversity. These landscapes are also important habitat for several rare reptiles and many species of shore birds. Presque Isle Bay and associated nearshore habitats provide spawning ground and habitat to several of Lake Erie’s fish species. Additionally, Presque Isle provides recreational opportunities vital to the local economy and is Pennsylvania’s most visited State Park.
