Salton, A Sea of Controversy

By Kristin B. Vessey

Abstract

The Salton Sea is an “accidental” lake that receives used irrigation water from the Colorado River. Humans have profoundly altered the area’s ecosystems. The Salton Sea is important for wildlife and recreation, but is now saltier than the ocean. How might it be saved? This case examines the Salton Sea’s problems and uncertain future. The case would be suitable for introductory environmental, biology, geography and geology classes, and courses dealing with land use, water resources, agriculture, birds or fish, ecosystems, and government policy.

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Date Posted

08/04/1999

Overview

Objectives

To examine how water diversion affects ecosystems.
To show how controversial water rights have become.
To consider appropriate uses of land in light of geography and climate.
To observe some environmental effects of agriculture.
To appreciate the impact human demands for water makes on other species.
To consider the high cost of trying to remedy an ecological disaster.
To practice decision-making in the public sector.

Keywords

Salton Sea; man-made lake; salinity; water resources; water use; water conflicts; land use; ecosystems management; environmental decision-making; California; Colorado River

Subject Headings

Ecology

Environmental Engineering

Environmental Science

Geography

Geology

Natural Resource Management

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

High school, Undergraduate lower division

FORMAT

PDF

TOPICAL AREAS

Policy issues

LANGUAGE

English

TYPE/METHODS

Dilemma/Decision, Jig-Saw, Role-Play

Teaching Notes & Answer Key

Teaching Notes

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Answer Key

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