After 36 Years, You Can Hike to Lone Rock Again

Invasive quaggamussels, dangerously low lake levels, marinas closing down — what’s happening to America’s second largest reservoir, and how can we restore it?

As a local, and long-term resident of the Lake Powell area, I have watched the Lake Powell levels ebb and flow since my family first landed here in 1987.

(For clarity, I have not lived here for 30+ years consecutively.)

The lake levels are now the lowest in history, since it was at “full pool” in 1980.

Full pool was approximately 3,700 feet above sea level, and nearly 150 feet above where the water levels are in the video. (Notice the white walls on the lower part of the rocks.)

THE GOOD NEWS - there is still a lot of lake to enjoy. Contractually, the Glen Canyon Dam must allow a set number of "million acre feet" of water (MAF) to pass through for irrigation to CA, NV, and Mexico. This number was as high as 7 or 8 (MAF) at one time.

How can we keep Lake Powell as a thriving body of water? I probed for answers and talked to someone in the know...

Is the answer as simple and esoteric as "just pray for more rain?" No, of course not. During my phone call to Robert Martin, a supervisor for the Bureau of Reclamation, he said, “this is the [lowest] we’ve seen it since it was filled.” He and I brainstormed on the call.

I postulated this concept:

"Would it be too crazy of an idea to have a pipeline project to refill Lake Powell?" His "no" answer surprised me. We discussed the the Columbia River as an access point, with the idea of a massive waterway going thru Idaho, down into Utah and finally into this lake.

"It would make more green energy [no CO2] from hydroelectric power, as each state could build their own dams along this pipeline." Could this be the best solution?

Also, he said the dam will be releasing almost 1 MAF less of water during this year, 2021. That should help, a little, but we will need more snowmelt from Colorado and hopefully some good rain over the coming months.

Thankfully, over 30% of the lake still remains and a ramp extension was made near the docks.

This lake has over 90 canyons to explore by boat or kayak. You can spend days out here, easily. It's also pet friendly, and has decent and affordable camping grounds.

That said, please enjoy the video, and don't give up hope for Lake Powell!

Also, check out my short term, fully furnished rentals, year round, near Lake Powell, Buckskin Gulch, and other great canyons and landmarks at the website below!

// FREE TRAVEL BLOG - SOUTHERN UTAH //
http://www.libertyvacationrental.com

// MY INSTAGRAM PAGE //
http://www.instagram.com/liberty.vacation.rentals
(please do not send booking requests here)

Видео After 36 Years, You Can Hike to Lone Rock Again канала ☆ YouTube Utah ☆