Exploring the arts scene on the shores of California’s Salton Sea

Beginning in the 1960s, the terminal lake (i.e., no outlet) faced increased salinity, pollution from irrigation wastewater, and chronically increased flooding. Neighboring towns were hit as property values ​​and recreational revenue fell. These factors, combined with the 2003 Quantitative Settlement Agreement, the rapid diversion of water from rural areas to urban areas, causing the lake to shrink rapidly, has led to serious environmental concerns. Based on Audubon, the ecosystem is on the verge of collapse, which will devastate the approximately 400 species of birds that nest there. However, there is some hope: Various entities, such as Salton Marine Authority and California Natural Resources Agency, are making mitigation efforts.