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The Salton Sea is a unique environment. Images from USGS research activities in the region highlight the diversity and harshness of the environment for both humans and species that inhabit or visit the area.

Images

Photo of boat docks now surrounded by sand as the Salton Sea receeds.
Boat Docks High and Dry at the Salton Sea
Boat Docks High and Dry at the Salton Sea
Boat Docks High and Dry at the Salton Sea

As the Salton Sea continues to evaporate, old boat docks are now surrounded by sand and salt.

As the Salton Sea continues to evaporate, old boat docks are now surrounded by sand and salt.

Image: Receding Shoreline
Receding Shoreline
Receding Shoreline
Receding Shoreline

Receding shoreline on the east side of the Salton Sea, California.

Receding shoreline on the east side of the Salton Sea, California.

Image: Burrowing Owl Nesting Pair
Burrowing Owl Nesting Pair
Burrowing Owl Nesting Pair
Burrowing Owl Nesting Pair

Birds found in and around the Salton Sea, California.

Birds found in and around the Salton Sea, California.

Image: American Avocet
American Avocet
American Avocet
American Avocet

Birds found in and around the Salton Sea, California.

Birds found in and around the Salton Sea, California.

Image: Black Skimmer
Black Skimmer
Black Skimmer
Black Skimmer

Birds found in and around the Salton Sea, California.

Birds found in and around the Salton Sea, California.

Image: Black Skimmer
Black Skimmer
Black Skimmer
Black Skimmer

Birds found in and around the Salton Sea, California.

Birds found in and around the Salton Sea, California.