Damn Dam Damage Could Affect Lake Mead Water Levels
As of the writing of this article, the water level at Lake Mead stands at 1,074.18 feet and slowly but surely sinking. While higher than the last two years, it pales compared to the years prior. Well, news of Glen Canyon Dam damage upstream on the Colorado River is giving us a sinking feeling in Southern Nevada.
The Bureau of Reclamation released the result of inspections on the Glen Canyon Dam, which helps hold back Lake Powell. Those inspection show an issue with the pipes that are part of the “river outlet works”. In April of 2023, those pipes sent millions of gallons of water rushing down the Colorado River at once to help build up the beaches that were eroding around the river.
The pipes are showing evidence of a phenomenon called “cavitation”. That cavitation can create shock waves that could do some severe damage to the machinery at the dam.
How Does Glen Canyon Dam Damage Affect Southern Nevada
What does the Glen Canyon Dam damage matter to us? After all, it is 270 miles east of Las Vegas. Why worry?
Well, things unfortunately get complicated when it comes to water coming downstream. We’ve gotten occasional deluges of water coming down the Colorado River. Those waves came down thanks in part to large water release events from Lake Powell. That water went down those damaged pipes.
According to the executive director of the Utah Rivers Council “the archaic plumbing inside Utah’s Glen Canyon Dam is the most urgent water problem facing the 40 million people of the Colorado River Basin.” Yikes.
Right now, Lake Powell sits at 3,558 feet. If it dips below 3,490 feet, Glen Canyon Dam cannot generate power. Experts suggest that continuous water output through the pipes is not suggested and instead the water should seek alternate routes. The problem is those alternate routes would no longer be available under 3,490 feet.
In the short term, Lake Powell is not expected to drop beneath its current level through February 2026. But time is of the essence to assure that the dam can deliver transfers of water downstream to the dry Lake Mead.
Damn, dam.
10 Fun Things to Do at the Lake
Swimming in the cool waters
I grew up a swimmer, but some lakes are just too cold for my taste. That said, many people love a refreshing dip into crisp, cold water at their local lake. Just check temperatures before you jump in, because if it’s too early in the season, those temperatures could be dangerously cold.
Little kid swimming in the lake. Getty Images.
Camping near the shoreline
Water often attracts special wildlife that you won’t find anywhere else. That makes camping near a lake a very special experience and different from the typical campground. When you’re camping, make sure you check out the nature that blossoms around the lakes and wetlands, too.
Campsite with orange tent. Getty Images.
Fishing
When I was a little kid, I wanted to go fishing. My dad was not a fisherman by any means and was pretty clueless about it. So, he had a friend of his take us fishing, and it was so fun, even though I didn’t catch anything. That said, fishing is a great summer activity on the lake.
Father and son fishing on boat. Getty Images.
Paddleboarding, kayaking or canoeing
If you’re looking for an activity to help keep you in shape, paddleboarding, kayaking and canoeing are all great exercise. All of those activities are harder than they look, too, so they can be challenging. But, in the end, you’ll have a good time and get in a real workout. Many lakes have places were you can rent a paddleboat, kayak or canoe, too.
Couple kayaking together. Getty Images.
Water sports
One of my cousins absolutely loves jet skiing. It’s always fun to hear him talk about the experience. I’m not much of a water sports enthusiast, but I can appreciate those who do partake. You don’t even have to have your own boat or jet skis, as they are often available for rent nearby.
Young man riding jet boat on a summer day at the lake. Getty Images.
Have a picnic
It’s always a charming activity to have a picnic by the lake. Invite some friends or family over and bring some delicious food to enjoy while looking at the water. Oh, and make sure to have ice cream. That’s a must.
Picnic by the lake. Basket with berries, bread. Getty Images.
Take a hike
Hiking near a lake can be extra lovely, as the water can offer glorious scenery to really make your hike memorable. As aforementioned, lakes often attract nature that you don’t find anywhere else, so hiking around the water can be a unique experience.
Woman with a small yellow dog standing on pier by the mountain lake. Getty Images.
Party with friends
Parties by the lake are always fun. So, get out a grill and invite a bunch of friends down to the beach to enjoy a day or night of partying by the water. But, don’t get wasted, because drinking and swimming can be a deadly combination.
Happy friends doing selfie swimming in the sea with sail boat in background. Getty Images.
Sunbathing
Here’s my top choice, even though you’ll likely find me doing it in the shade: sunbathing. If the water is too cold of you’re just not up to more challenging activities, you can get some sun and lay on the beach. But, remember the sunscreen.
Women relaxing at the lake. Getty Images.
Lakeside games
Lakeside games are definitely a thing, and there are many quirky games that you can play by the lake. A few enjoyable lake games include water balloon fights, bean bag tosses, horseshoes and more. Pick a game and dig in.
Family on dock splashing feet in lake. Getty Images.
