(I) Lakes have obviously played an important role in the
historical development of communities, and modern life
is dependent on the purification facilities and agricultural
benefits that lakes provide. (II) As renewable energy
becomes increasingly important in the 21st century, so
do lakes and the possibilities of hydroelectric power that
they present. (III) Major threats to the longevity of lake
fertility are pollution, drainage and faulty
water-management practices. (IV) Economically, lakes
play an integral part in the development of major
waterways and travel routes. (V) Fishing and
aquaculture, and the jobs their industry represents, are
also principle benefits of living in a lake community.