Thanks to the power outage on the east side of the sierras -caused by the high winds- none of the restaurant in any of the towns were open. We did however get to stop by mono lake! Mono lake is a saline soda lake, making it alkaline. This provides a unique ecosystem for brine shrimp and the 2 million migratory birds that rely on them for food. Unfortunately, the city of Los Angeles has been diverting some of the freshwater streams that feed mono lake over the past century. This has caused the average salinity of the lake to more than double since 1941 as the water level drops. Fortunately, the mono lake committee was formed by a group of concerned locals and has successfully assisted in the implementation of laws to protect and restore the lake. Since 1981 the lake has been recovering. Although the lake is not expected to recover to pre 1941 levels of salinity (50g per liter), it is expected to stabilize at 69g per liter in 20 years time as recovery continues. The lake does not drain, except via evaporation, which is what makes it such a unique ecosystem.
Great pictures – thanks!
Area looks beautiful, pictures are great. Loved picture of Erin in the air. Have a safe trip.