Clear Lake is one of the oldest lakes in North America. Believed to be as old as 3 million years, the ancient lake holds a wealth of ecological and historical knowledge. Nestled in the state’s “best air quality” county, its 100 mile shoreline, abundant fish and majestic 68-square-foot glistening surface attracts countless visitors annually. A vital resource used by humans as far back as 11,000 years ago, the lake continues to feed San Joaquin San Francisco Delta rivers and creeks essential for agriculture. Vineyards, orchards and drinking water demands surrounding the lake also rely on its precious flows.
Global warming creates deserts in some regions and floods in others. California’s Mediterranean style microclimate has the privilege of experiencing both. Blue green algae blooms increased on the lake as a result of California’s extended drought. Crappies that thrive on algae also flourished as a deluge of rain from El Nino type weather significantly raised lake levels. Fishers welcome the onslaught, raking in buckets of crappie and a fair share of largemouth bass daily. Scant attention is paid however, to fish suffering from population declines such as catfish, in the midst of such excitement.
Unseasonably heavy rains this year gives the illusion that California’s drought is over and pre-drought draws on a seemingly infinite resource are warranted. Over extraction, nutrient and sediments loads and increased temperatures are just a few of the lake’s challenges. Yet in spite of stressors impairing its ecological well-being, it still brilliantly radiates each morning. Nature has a lot to say and will continue to wait patiently until folks are willing to listen.
Sharon Y. Fuller 