Salton Sea
Thousands of rotting fish have been found along the shoreline of California's largest lake in a rare winter die-off. It's unclear how many of the fish died in the Salton Sea, but many were found floating on the water and along the shoreline. Water temperatures that dropped to the high 50s and lower 60s were blamed for the recent die-off.
Residents may be the ones who have to handle the mess. Funding for the sea's fish-kill cleanups was cut last year when the Salton Sea Authority eliminated a contract for a boat that scooped up dead fish before they reached shore.
The authority now coordinates regular voluntary cleanups, using tools like pitchforks and garbage cans. The next one is scheduled for March 10.
The Salton Sea is a 35-mile-long lake stretching across the Imperial and Riverside county line. It faces an uncertain future largely because of agreements sending water to more populated San Diego. Scientists believe the lake, already dependent on water flows to balance high salinity, is on a perilous track threatening the health of wildlife and humans in the area.
February 12, 2007 6:51 AM | Category: Fish