What is the significance of the Welland Canal in relation to Lake Ontario?

The Welland Canal holds significant importance as it connects Lake Ontario to Lake Erie. This connection is vital for navigation, enabling ships to bypass the natural barrier posed by Niagara Falls. The canal facilitates the movement of bulk goods and commodities between the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence Seaway, allowing for efficient trade and commerce. This linkage transforms the Great Lakes into a unified transportation system, significantly benefiting regional economies and international trade routes. Additionally, the Welland Canal plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels within the Great Lakes system by facilitating the flow and distribution of water.

While the other choices detail other aspects of waterways and their uses, they do not encapsulate the primary function of the Welland Canal, which is to serve as a navigational link between these two important lakes.