Lake Erie Islands

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Lake Erie Islands

The Lake Erie Islands are a chain of islands in Lake Erie. They include Kelleys Island, Pelee Island, the Bass Islands, and several others. The majority of these islands are under the sovereignty of Ohio in the United States. Pelee Island is the only major island administered by Ontario although Middle Island is the southernmost point in Canada. Most islands that are large enough are popular tourist attractions with car ferries running from the mainland and between some islands and some small airports and numerous private marinas offering other ways to reach the islands.

[edit] Economy

Most of the islands remain financially stable via tourism nowadays. Grape growing and wineries were once the mainstay of the economy. Kelleys is heavily forested and has replaced them almost entirely, South Bass is more developed and still has a few large vineyards. Pelee is the only major island where vineyards remain popular. Limestone quarrying still occurs on Kellys Island; as well, there are a few hobby farms.

[edit] Residents

Most of the islands are headed by a small group of year-round residents. However, eager vacationers often raise the populations dramatically during the summer months, most notable on South Bass Island, which is the most tourist-friendly of the islands despite its small size.