Gulf of Bothnia

Baltic Sea map

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Scandinavia M2002074 lrg

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Bottnischer Meerbusen um 1830

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Solis Occasus in Sino Bothnico

Hailuoto Marjaniemi

Gulf of Bothnia is a large body of water located between Sweden to the west and Finland to the east. It is the northernmost arm of the Baltic Sea. The gulf is divided into two main parts: the Bothnian Sea to the south and the Bothnian Bay, or Bay of Bothnia, to the north. The Gulf of Bothnia plays a significant role in the geography, climate, and economy of the region.

Geography

The Gulf of Bothnia stretches approximately 725 kilometers from north to south. Its width varies from 80 to 240 kilometers. The gulf is relatively shallow, with an average depth of about 60 meters, making it significantly less deep than the main basin of the Baltic Sea. The northern part, known as the Bothnian Bay, is shallower than the southern part, the Bothnian Sea. The Åland Islands lie at the southern end of the gulf, marking a boundary between the Gulf of Bothnia and the Baltic Sea Proper.

Several significant rivers flow into the Gulf of Bothnia, including the Torne River, Kalix River, Lule River, and Ume River from Sweden, and the Kemi River, Oulujoki River, and Kokemäenjoki River from Finland. These rivers contribute to the low salinity levels in the gulf, particularly in the Bothnian Bay, where the water is almost fresh.

Climate

The Gulf of Bothnia is characterized by a cold climate, with long, severe winters and short, mild summers. The gulf freezes over completely in the winter, usually from December to April, allowing for ice fishing, ice skating, and even temporary roads across the ice. The ice cover significantly influences the climate of the surrounding regions, moderating winter temperatures but also delaying spring warming.

Economy

The Gulf of Bothnia is an important area for both Sweden and Finland's economies. It supports a rich fishery, although overfishing and environmental concerns have led to regulations to sustain fish populations. The gulf's ports, such as Luleå, Oulu, and Vaasa, are vital for shipping, especially for the transport of timber, iron ore, and other goods. The region around the gulf is heavily forested, supporting a significant forestry industry, including paper and pulp production.

Environmental Concerns

Environmental issues in the Gulf of Bothnia include pollution from industrial and agricultural runoff, leading to eutrophication, which affects water quality and marine life. Efforts are being made by both Sweden and Finland to address these concerns through stricter environmental regulations and international cooperation in the Baltic Sea region.

See Also

• Baltic Sea
• Åland Islands
• Eutrophication
• List of rivers of Sweden
• List of rivers of Finland