Readers React:  Beset by a (Salton) sea of troubles

To the editor: Unless we are willing to accept toxic dust storms from Los Vegas to Laguna and a dead zone in the Imperial Valley where food is now grown, we must do something about the Salton Sea, and do it soon. (“Hope is drying up,” Oct. 1, and “Save the Salton Sea deal,” Editorial, Oct. 4)

Perhaps we should run a line from the Gulf of California and turn it into a giant saltwater swimming pool. That would probably cost a lot less than some of the proposals I have seen, and maybe turn it into a nice place again.

Roger Walton, North Hills

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To the editor: The situation at the Salton Sea is dire and, without intervention, will only get worse, causing huge health and environmental issues for both people and wildlife.

The lack of leadership and commitment to action by our government could lead to disastrous consequences. The talk and studies have been going on for years, but sadly no concrete action to mitigate the problem has been implemented. Shame on California.

Michael B. Natelson, Newport Beach

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To the editor: Instead of spending millions of dollars on saving a water bed that is killing the birds and fish so many are concerned about, and causing health problems to local residents, it’s time to start covering the Salton Sea as it dries up and start spending money on the residential communities that surround it.

Conrad Corral, Cathedral City

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To the editor: Thank you for your editorial; the importance of the Salton Sea as a flyway for migrating birds cannot be overstated, nor can the danger to human health if the lake bed’s toxic dust is exposed.

Moreover, the entire area is a California jewel (or “gold,” as Huell Houser would have put it). In fall, winter and spring, the Salton Sea is temperate and magical in its desert beauty. The recreational area on the north shore is my family’s favorite winter camping destination. The sunsets are unparalleled.

Let’s preserve this unique recreational area in our own backyard.

Laura Jaoui, Claremont

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