As a result, the lake has dropped to half its size and has doubled in salinity. Within Mono Lake, a simple yet abundant food chain begins with algae, which nourishes trillions of brine shrimp and alkali flies. Today the size and abundance of the alkali fly have been reduced due to increased salinity caused by water diversions. Brine shrimp research concludes that the shrimp hatch will not occur at higher salt concentrations. Fresh water is the lifeblood of this lake which nourishes the flies and the shrimp which attract millions of migratory and nesting birds to Mono Lake.
Mono Lake is a tight web of life reliant on water.
Just as all life in Mono Lake relies on fresh water, our very essence is dependent on fresh water. Water is life. Humans are able to survive for months without food, but cannot last a few days without water. Water quenches our thirst, cleans our clothes, and keeps our gardens green. We have taken water for granted.