Lake Champlain is a large freshwater lake located on the border of Vermont and New York. Burlington, Vermont, is one of the largest cities situated along the shores of Lake Champlain. The lake has a long history, having been used for transportation, fishing, and recreation by Native Americans and European settlers for centuries. Today, Lake Champlain is an important hydrological system, providing drinking water for many towns and cities in Vermont. The lake is fed by several small rivers, including the Winooski River, and by snowmelt in the spring. Agricultural practices in the surrounding area have had a significant impact on the lake's water quality, which has led to efforts to reduce nutrient pollution. Recreational uses of the lake include fishing, boating, and swimming.