FEDERATION OF WESTERN OUTDOOR CLUBS

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SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA'S SALTON SEA

The Salton Sea is California's largest inland body of water, 35 miles long and 15 miles wide.  It is 25 percent saltier than seawater, 220 feet lower than sea level, and has an average depth of about 30 feet.

Rather than being 'dead,' the Salton Sea is rich in nutrients, supporting zooplankton and worms which provide abundant food for fish (salt tolerant species) and birds.  It is one of the most important stops on the Pacific Flyway and provides important habitat for bald eagles, brown pelicans, peregrine falcons, and other imperiled wildlife.  The Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge is home to more than 380 species of birds.

Ensuring the necessary flow of water to maintain the sea has become increasingly difficult as neighboring states are struggling to deal with California's overconsumption of Colorado River water.  Growing California communities have bid strongly for a greater portion of the waters which are needed to sustain the Salton Sea.  The City of San Diego is trying to divert large amounts of water which would otherwise flow into the Salton Sea to support its expanded development.  Establishing the long-range potential of this large body of water will require addressing the problems of salinity, adequate water inflow, control of pollutants, and protection for wildlife and recreational values.

The Salton Sea Authority, composed of representatives of counties which border the sea and the affected irrigation and water districts, was formed in 1994.  The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation has been designated as the federal agency to coordinate with the Salton Sea Authority to devise a plan for preserving the sea.

The Federation of Western Outdoor clubs strongly supports the preservation of the Salton Sea and its important wildlife habitat and opposes the transfer of Imperial Irrigation District water to the city of San Diego.

Letters to senators and representatives from all western states are needed, particularly to representative Mary Bono (R, CA) (fax: 202/225-2961; phone: 202/225-5330) and to the Bureau of Reclamation urging renewed efforts to save the Salton Sea.