Science
Historic drought conditions across the Great Basin are posing challenges for migratory birds and other wildlife that depend on these habitats. The Saline Lake Ecosystems IWAA is collecting data and conducting scientific research to lead to an assessment on the status of water, habitat, and birds in and across terminal lakes.
FAQs
How is the salinity of Great Salt Lake measured? How is the salinity of Great Salt Lake measured?
The salinity of Great Salt Lake is measured by taking specific gravity and temperature measurements and comparing them to standardized values reported in a table. Specific gravity is measured in the field by testing a water sample with a device very similar to a battery or antifreeze tester. Learn more: Water-Resources Investigations Report for Great Salt Lake, Utah
What causes drought? What causes drought?
A drought is a period of drier-than-normal conditions that results in water-related problems. The amount of precipitation at a particular location varies from year to year, but over a period of years the average amount is fairly constant. In the deserts of the Southwest, the average precipitation is less than 3 inches per year. In contrast, the average precipitation in the Northwest is more than...
Why doesn't a drought end when it rains? Why doesn't a drought end when it rains?
Rainfall in any form will provide some drought relief. A good analogy might be how medicine and illness relate to each other. A single dose of medicine can alleviate symptoms of illness, but it usually takes a sustained program of medication to cure an illness. Likewise, a single rainstorm will not break the drought, but it might provide temporary relief. A light to moderate shower will probably...