![]() ![]() Projections about when critical lake levels might be reached, however, have not been met. At certain lake levels these changes would be expected to alter algal and invertebrate populations and the populations of aquatic birds that feed upon them or to disrupt breeding activities in gull colonies. Both panels concluded that, because of the simplicity of the lake ecosystem, ecological consequences of changes in lake level and salinity associated with continuing diversions were likely to be unusually clear-cut. These conclusions have been a major component of legal activities and the development of management plans for the lake and basin ecosystem. Despite differences in composition and approach, the two panels reached generally similar conclusions. We consider (1) how two independent panels of experts synthesized scientific information on the lake ecosystem to assess the environmental consequences of these changes, and (2) how the findings of these groups influenced policy decisions and how well subsequent changes in the lake matched expectations. Diversions lowered the lake level, increased the salinity, changed the availability of aquatic habitats, and altered the configuration of the shoreline and of islands that support breeding colonies of gulls. It has become the focus of an environmental controversy over the effects of 50 yr of diversions of water from tributary streams to supply water to Los Angeles. Let me know what you think in the comments.Because of its high salinity and alkalinity, Mono Lake, in eastern California (USA), is a relatively simple ecosystem. Mono Lake is located right at the end of Tioga Pass Road, so it is an excellent way to complete a summer road trip or begin a drive over the pass. There are also a ton of great photo opportunities for photographers here as there is a lot to look at. I spent a good hour here walking around, and I could have easily spent longer, it was a crazy unique place. For more information on that, check out this post. I got to see an Osprey there last time I visited. I am not much of a bird watcher myself, but every time I visit there are always people with binoculars and big zoom lenses to look at the birds. Check out this video that shows how many flies there were as we were walking.īirds are another reason why Mono Lake is a popular stop. This is also one of the reasons why so many birds come through here as there are a lot of flies that can be eaten. ![]() They were able to harvest the larva for food. One of the reasons why Native Americans settled here was because of the flies. ![]() Check out the black part near the water of the below picture, yes those are all flies. These are not the type of flies that bug you and buzz around, but the kind that collected on the ground by the water. Something to note is that there are an insane amount of alkali flies. This area is also incredible at sunset as well, and if you have the chance to visit during that time, be sure to do it. Some even reach heights of around 15 to 20 feet. You can spend as much time as you like looking at these unique natural formations. The hike from here is pretty much at your own pace. After a half mile trip down a dirt road, you can park in the lot that has a bathroom, and walk about a half mile to the water and the diverse collection of tufas. Driving east, you will want to watch for signs that lead to the small parking lot for the trailhead. If you want to see them, you will need to proceed down Highway 395 (from Lee Vining) to Highway 120. The most unusual thing about this lake are the tufas that are located at the south end and are described as “a soft porous rock consisting of calcium carbonate deposited from springs rich in lime.”
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |