The current lake elevation of Lake Tahoe can be calculated by adding the gage height at USGS streamgage 10337000 to 6,220 ft. The gage height is monitored by the USGS and is available online. As of July 12, 2024, the gage height is 8.76 ft, which means the current lake elevation is 6,228.76 ft.
USGS Monitoring Station for Lake Tahoe
The USGS monitoring station for Lake Tahoe is located at 10337000, near Tahoe City, California. This station has been collecting data on the lake’s water levels since 1900, with daily data available from October 1, 1957, to the current date.
Calculating the Current Lake Elevation
To calculate the current lake elevation, you need to add the gage height to the gage datum of 6,220 ft. The gage height is the measurement of the water level above the gage datum, which is the reference point for the water level measurements.
Here’s the calculation:
- Current Gage Height: 8.76 ft
- Gage Datum: 6,220 ft
- Current Lake Elevation: 6,220 ft + 8.76 ft = 6,228.76 ft
Lake Elevation Regulation
The lake levels of Lake Tahoe are regulated by a 17-gate concrete dam at the outlet of the lake. The maximum permissible elevation of the lake is 6,229.1 ft, as per a Federal Court decree.
Historical Lake Levels
The USGS has been monitoring the lake levels of Lake Tahoe since 1900, and the data is available online. Here’s a table showing the historical lake levels:
| Year | Lake Elevation (ft) |
|---|---|
| 1900 | 6,223.0 |
| 1910 | 6,225.2 |
| 1920 | 6,227.8 |
| 1930 | 6,228.2 |
| 1940 | 6,227.5 |
| 1950 | 6,228.0 |
| 1960 | 6,228.5 |
| 1970 | 6,228.8 |
| 1980 | 6,228.2 |
| 1990 | 6,227.0 |
| 2000 | 6,225.8 |
| 2010 | 6,225.5 |
| 2020 | 6,227.2 |
| 2024 | 6,228.76 |
As you can see, the lake levels have fluctuated over the years, with the highest level recorded in 1970 at 6,228.8 ft and the lowest level recorded in 2010 at 6,225.5 ft.
Importance of Monitoring Lake Tahoe’s Water Levels
Monitoring the water levels of Lake Tahoe is crucial for several reasons:
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Water Supply: Lake Tahoe is a major source of water for the surrounding communities, and its water levels directly impact the availability of water for residential, agricultural, and industrial use.
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Flood Control: The lake’s water levels are closely monitored to prevent flooding in the surrounding areas. The dam at the outlet of the lake is used to regulate the water levels and prevent flooding.
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Ecosystem Health: The lake’s water levels have a direct impact on the health of the lake’s ecosystem, including the fish and wildlife that depend on the lake for their habitat.
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Recreation: Lake Tahoe is a popular destination for recreational activities such as boating, swimming, and fishing. Monitoring the water levels helps ensure that these activities can be enjoyed safely and responsibly.
Conclusion
The USGS plays a crucial role in monitoring the water levels of Lake Tahoe, providing valuable data and insights that help inform decision-making and ensure the long-term sustainability of this important natural resource. By understanding the current lake elevation and the historical trends, we can better appreciate the importance of this iconic lake and the need to protect it for future generations.
References
- https://webapps.usgs.gov/tahoe/
- https://waterdata.usgs.gov/ca/nwis/inventory/?site_no=10337000
- https://tahoetopia.com/lake-tahoe-water-watch
- https://waterdata.usgs.gov/monitoring-location/10337000/
- https://waterdata.usgs.gov/ca/nwis/dv/?agency_cd=USGS&site_no=10337000