elevation of green bay wisconsin

2 min read 21-02-2025

Green Bay, Wisconsin, nestled on the western shore of Lake Michigan, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and of course, the Green Bay Packers. But what about its elevation? Understanding the elevation of Green Bay provides context to its geography, climate, and even its history. This article delves into the specifics of Green Bay's elevation, exploring its variations and implications.

The Average Elevation of Green Bay

The average elevation of Green Bay, Wisconsin is approximately 600 feet (183 meters) above sea level. However, it's crucial to understand that this is an average. The city's elevation varies considerably across its different neighborhoods and geographical features.

Variations in Elevation Across Green Bay

Green Bay's elevation isn't uniform. The shoreline naturally sits at a lower elevation, while areas further inland, particularly those situated on higher ground, experience significantly different elevations. Some parts of the city may be as low as 580 feet (177 meters), while others might reach elevations closer to 620 feet (189 meters).

Downtown Green Bay: The downtown area tends to have a lower elevation compared to the surrounding neighborhoods.
Residential Areas: Suburbs and residential areas located further inland usually sit at higher elevations.
Elevated Points of Interest: Certain landmarks and parks within Green Bay sit at higher elevations offering stunning views of the city and Lake Michigan.

Factors Affecting Green Bay's Elevation

Several factors contribute to the variations in elevation across Green Bay:

Proximity to Lake Michigan: The city's proximity to Lake Michigan significantly impacts its elevation. Areas closer to the lake naturally have lower elevations.
Glacial History: Wisconsin's glacial history dramatically shaped the landscape. The movement and melting of glaciers millions of years ago left behind varying terrain, resulting in the undulating elevations seen in Green Bay today. This is a key factor in understanding the varied topography.
Natural Topography: The natural landforms existing before significant human development also influence the present-day elevation variations.

Implications of Green Bay's Elevation

Green Bay's elevation has various implications:

Climate: Elevation impacts temperature and precipitation. Higher elevations within Green Bay may experience slightly cooler temperatures and different precipitation patterns compared to lower-lying areas. While the difference is subtle, it's measurable.
Drainage: Elevation influences drainage patterns. Water runoff follows the natural slope of the land, impacting the city's drainage systems and flood risk. Understanding elevations is crucial for urban planning and infrastructure development.
Views and Aesthetics: The variations in elevation create diverse viewpoints across the city. Higher elevations offer scenic perspectives of Lake Michigan, the city skyline, and the surrounding natural landscapes.

How to Find Specific Elevations in Green Bay

If you need to find the precise elevation of a specific location within Green Bay, several resources are available:

Online Mapping Tools: Utilize online mapping services such as Google Maps, Bing Maps, or specialized topographic maps. These tools often provide elevation data for specific coordinates.
GIS Data: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data from the city of Green Bay or the state of Wisconsin may contain detailed elevation information.

Conclusion: Understanding Green Bay's Elevation

The elevation of Green Bay, Wisconsin, while averaging around 600 feet (183 meters), is far from uniform. Variations across the city are influenced by its location on Lake Michigan, its glacial history, and its natural topography. Understanding these variations is essential for various aspects of urban planning, environmental management, and appreciating the city's unique geographic character. Remember to use online tools or GIS data for precise elevation details for specific locations.