Kayakers paddle on a newly refilled Walker Lake. Photo special to The R-C by the Walker Basin Conservancy
What was a mess for much of the Eastern Sierra ended up being a blessing for Walker Lake.
As the last of the snowpack melts out of the Eastern Sierra, this summer has seen record flows of the Walker River. As these record flows reach Walker Lake, they have brought increased recreation, families, and events to the Lake. Walker Lake has risen 15 feet since its low point in December.
“Currently in a state of ecological collapse due primarily to upstream diversions of the Walker River, this year’s flows are of significant impact to Walker Lake and the long-term goal for its restoration. According to Walker Basin Conservancy Development Director Amy Guinan. “Successful restoration efforts will see salinity levels reduced to a level at which native Lahontan cutthroat trout could be reintroduced and thrive in the Lake, and a healthy water system for the many communities dependent on Walker Lake, including Hawthorne and the Walker River Paiute tribe.”
In celebration of the water year, the Conservancy is conducting a pledge campaign through Sept. 15 at https://pledgeit.org/raise-the-lake
“The Conservancy thanks the many community members so far who have supported the campaign and the rise of Walker Lake,” Guinan said.
The Conservancy is a nonprofit whose mission is to restore and maintain Walker Lake while protecting agricultural, environmental and recreational interests throughout the Walker Basin.
