Refilling the Lake: The Owens Valley Option

Abstract

Owens Dry Lake in Southern California is t he largest source of anthropogenic dust in the nation, containing toxic heavy metals and known carcinogens. The lake was drained in 1913 when the City of Los Angeles diverted the water of the Owens River into the Los Angeles Aqueduct. Los Angeles is now considered legally responsible for the dust problem. This project examines the historical and political reasons for Los Angeles ' refusal to supply water to the Owens Valley in order to alleviate the damage. It also reviews attempts to mitigate the dust problem without water, as well as the need for future negotiations in order to return water to Owens Lake. Owens Lake is not only a habit for sensitive and threatened species, but also a part of the public trust and, as such, must be protected.