Imagining a Future Without Lake Mead

This article looks at what could happen if Nevada's reservoir Lake Mead actually does dry up by 2021 as some scientists have predicted.

1 minute read

March 31, 2008, 11:00 AM PDT

By Nate Berg


"Nevada's Lake Mead, the largest man-made lake and reservoir in the U.S., could go dry by 2021, according to a pair of scientists at the Scripp's Institute of Oceanography in San Diego, California. If human-induced climate change and water usage continues at the present rate, or even slower, there is a 50% chance the lake will go dry in coming years - and sooner, rather than later. The Colorado River's water is being consumed far beyond a sustainable level."

"Regional climate models show California and areas of the Southwest could soon face a devastating water crisis. Reduced winter run-off - due to global warming, changing weather patterns and over-consumption - are draining the area of vital water. If the region enters a serious drought, matters will worsen quickly."

"The loss of a resource like Lake Mead would have a tremendous negative impact on the agriculture industry, electrical power production, and local and regional water supplies. With 1.3 million people depending on electricity from the Lake and 8 million people drinking its water, serious conservation programs and restrictions must be put in place."

Monday, March 31, 2008 in The Alternative Consumer, via Environmental News Network

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I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

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