|
|
|
A
temporary diversion of the Colorado River, constructed
to replace water from a blocked canal, is breached by
floodwaters. River changes course and flows into the
Salton Sink, forming the Salton Sea. |
|
|
|
The
Salton Sea Task Force is formed. It is the forerunner of
the Salton Sea Authority, consisting of representatives
from local agencies.
|
|
|
|
Today,
the Salton Sea is California largest inland body of
water. The Sea is a designated federal repository
of agricultural run-off, a critical wetlands in the
state for birds of the Pacific Flyway, an abundant
source of fish, and a stopover for recreators including
birdwatchers and photographers.
As
a part of the Colorado Desert ecosystem, it receives
less then 2.5 inches of rain per year on the
average. Over 90% of all water entering the Sea is
from agricultural run-off, bringing with it salts,
minerals and nutrients. Because of these inflows
and the high evaporation rates in the hot desert
climate, Salton Sea water is very saline, at
approximately25 percent saltier then the ocean. It
is also eutrophic - rich in nutrients, algae and fish.
Like
the Colorado River, the Salton Sea has been strongly
affected by human intervention. Now, perhaps more
than at any other time in its history, the Sea will
depend on further human intervention to maintain it as
an ecological resource and restore it to its optimum
function and use. |
|
|
