Crater Lake

Crater Lake in Oregon is said to be one of the clearest lakes in the world, although some websites report it as being the “cleanest.” Perhaps it is both the clearest and the cleanest, either way, it is beautiful.

 

The National Park Service (NPS) describes Crater Lake as having a depth of 1,943 feet (592 meters) making it the deepest lake in the United States, and the seventh deepest in the world. It is interesting to note that the depth of the lake was first measured in 1886 using a simple sounding machine made from a crank and piano wire which showed the lake to be 1,996 feet deep. Modern equipment certainly is amazing, but it’s probably more amazing that measurements with such simple tools were that close to the real figure.

 

According to the NPS: “Crater Lake was formed when a massive eruption of Mount Mazama 7700 years ago caused the mountain to collapse, leaving a steaming caldera. Centuries of rain and snow filled the caldera creating Crater Lake.”

 

Aside from attracting tourists from around the world, Crater Lake is used as an outdoor laboratory by scientists, researchers, and teachers. There is also an Artist-in-Residence Program where the imaginations of musicians, painters, and photographers have been inspired by the natural beauty of the surrounding areas.

 

The NPS is working hard to protect and maintain parks like Crater Lake, but there is much that needs to be done to protect the world’s drinking water. Water is being polluted every day by hydraulic fracturing and other types of industrial pollution.

Take part in your community’s effort to protect your drinking water supply. 

Further information on Crater Lake available at http://www.nps.gov/crla/index.htm