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…
Pipes upstream could cause serious problems for Lake Mead downstream.
Rana Hamid via Getty ImagesAs 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.
Nevada’s Free Fishing Day: Make A Catch At These Las Vegas Spots
Get ready to get hooked on fishing, Nevada! Free Fishing Day will take place throughout the state on June 10th, offering anyone the opportunity to cast their line into Nevada's waters and reel in a fish without the typically required fishing license. If you live in Las Vegas, you might find yourself thinking "Where can I even fish nearby?" Actually, there are a number of spots in the Las Vegas area for both experienced fishermen and fresh beginners to get a feel for the activity. And if you've never fished a day in your life, you need to take advantage of Nevada's Free Fishing Day!
When it comes to hobbies and recreation, many tend to lean towards activities such as yoga, reading, and binge-watching their favorite shows. While these are all perfectly fine and enjoyable hobbies, there's one activity that often gets overlooked: fishing. It may not seem like the most glamorous or exciting activity at first, but trust me, it's an experience that every individual and family should have at least once in their lifetimes.
Fishing is the perfect stress-relieving activity. There's something about being out on the water, surrounded by nature, that can instantly make you feel more relaxed and at peace. The calming sound of the waves (or fountains if you decide to scope out a pong at one of our fabulous Las Vegas parks), the warm sun on your skin, and the fresh air can work wonders on improving your mood and reducing stress levels.
It's also a chance to unplug and disconnect. In a world where we're constantly glued to our screens and bombarded by notifications, fishing gives you the opportunity to switch off and disconnect from the outside world for a few hours. Plus, it's a great way to spend quality time with friends or family without any distractions.
Beginners who decide to give the experience a try on June 10th will also undoubtedly learn a few new skills. Fishing may seem like a simple enough activity, but it actually requires a fair bit of skill and technique. From choosing the right bait to casting your line, there's plenty to learn and master. And not to mention... it can be immensely satisfying when you finally catch your first fish, knowing that you did it all by yourself. It's honestly one of the best feelings in the world!
When was the last time you actually stopped and appreciated all the beauty that surrounds us in nature? Getting out and enjoying Nevada Free Fishing Day will give you the chance to do just that, as you'll be out on the water, surrounded by stunning scenery and wildlife.
For those who might not have the necessary equipment, don't worry! According to Fox 5, "The Department of Wildlife will celebrate the day by hosting a Free Fishing Day event in Southern Nevada at Veteran’s Memorial Park in Boulder City, 1650 Buchanan Boulevard." Have a blast at this free event from 7:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. with equipment provided!
Get out and enjoy Nevada's Free Fishing Day with friends or family and make memories to last a lifetime. Make a catch at one of the fabulous Las Vegas locations below!
To discover all of the fishing spots in Nevada, click here.
Boulder City Pond/Veteran’s Memorial Park
Species: Rainbow Trout, Bluegill Sunfish, Channel Catfish
Lorenzi Park Pond
Species: Rainbow Trout, Bluegill Sunfish, Channel Catfish
Floyd Lamb Park Pond
Species: Rainbow Trout, Largemouth Bass, Bluegill Sunfish, Channel Catfish, Bullhead Catfish, Green Sunfish
Carpenter Canyon Creek
Species: Lahontan Cutthroat Trout
Lake Mead
Species: Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Striped Bass, Bullhead Catfish, Channel Catfish, Black Crappie, Bluegill Sunfish, Green Sunfish
Sunset Park Pond
Species: Rainbow Trout, Largemouth Bass, Bluegill Sunfish, Channel Catfish, Green Sunfish
