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