The Great Salt Lake in Utah, a body of water with a history spanning thousands of years, is currently facing severe challenges due to climate change. In 2022, water levels dropped to record lows, the lowest in over 170 years.
This alarming situation prompted a research team from Portland State University to investigate the impact of global warming on the lake. The researchers published their findings in the Geophysical Research Letters on January 21, 2025.
Urgency of Preservation
Preserving the Great Salt Lake is crucial due to its historical, economic, environmental, and health significance. The lake generates an estimated annual income of around $1.9 billion, provides essential habitats for migratory birds and serves as a breeding ground for various coastal bird species. Additionally, it hosts approximately 11 ski resorts in the area and plays a vital role in the local environment and climate.
Research Approach
To understand the reasons behind the lake's declining water levels in 2022, researchers focused on both water inputs (rivers and rainfall that feed the lake) and outputs (the lake's evaporation). They developed a model to simulate annual changes in water volume based on these inputs and outputs.
Key Findings
The study revealed that the drop in the lake's water volume can be attributed to two primary factors: a decrease in the flow of incoming water and an increase in evaporation rates. Although the decline in rainfall also contributed to the reduced water levels, its impact was relatively minor. Changes in input and output rates led to the lake reaching its lowest volume in 2022, with global warming being the most significant factor.
Researchers assert that increasing the flow of waterways could help the lake recover in the short term. However, with ongoing global warming, evaporation rates are expected to rise, potentially leading to further water loss in the long run.
Additionally, as the lake shrinks, its dry bottom exposes more land, resulting in increased dust in surrounding urban areas, which adversely affects air quality. Therefore, it is essential to implement effective solutions to preserve the Great Salt Lake.