Travel and Vacations

The Niagara Falls

Story Published on September 10, 2008 ⋅  Email this Story ⋅  Print this Story ⋅ Post a comment ⋅

Everyone knows the Niagara Falls, located in Ontario, Canada. But not everyone knows the long history, fun facts, and interesting things that surround the impressive dual waterfall. Even as far back as the 1800′s, all sorts of curious onlookers observed these magnificent waterfalls as a true natural inspiration in life.

Tourists are well known for flocking to the Niagara Falls for a few opportunities of photos, but something they don’t get much of a glimpse of is the effect the waters have on the local energy supply. The Niagara Falls powers turbines that, in turn, power the surrounding community with electricity. These power stations are considered to be a “clean” source of power- meaning there is no harm to the environment from this energy.

Some of the more exciting tales of the Niagara Falls include those of people who have tried outrageous stunts to try and gain fame. One of the most popular forms of stunts was going over the Niagara Falls in a barrel- although this has had a high rate of death and is certainly not recommended. Others have successfully tight-rope walked the distance of the Niagara Falls with little care for safety.

As humans continue to try and profit from this natural phenomenon, the waters are actually being impacted in small ways. Some tall buildings that have been erected for a better view of the Niagara Falls are actually interfering with the winds of the Niagara Falls. This isn’t a huge impact, but this goes to show that sometimes businesses can take the idea of profits a bit too far.

In winter, the Niagara Falls is a sure sight to see. Much of the river will be frozen over, although usually not completely. It was customary for citizens to go out on the river during winter, in which small carnivals of commercial business and tourists made their way each year. This practice has stopped since three lives were lost in an unfortunate breaking of the ice, and going out on the waters is strictly prohibited as of today.

The future of the Niagara Falls is certain- they aren’t going anywhere. Even natural forces such as erosion are being controlled through preservation efforts. False rock beds and supports have been installed to ensure erosion won’t degrade the Niagara Falls as we know them today. Underwater tunnels also divert any powerful currents away so that the riverbeds stay healthy enough to continue a healthy existence.

In Conclusion

Ontario is a wonderful place to visit, but tourists agree this is due mostly in part to the Niagara Falls. If you are planning a trip in the surrounding area, be sure to give the location a visit for a fun family opportunity or even for a sole venture to see natural wonders of the world.

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