Mono Lake

All tufa at Mono Lake forms underwater. Beneath Mono Lake, calcium-rich freshwater springs seep up from the lake bottom and mix with lake water rich in carbonates. As the calcium comes in contact with the carbonates in the lake, a chemical reaction occurs, resulting in calcium carbonate, or limestone. The calcium carbonate settles out of solution as a solid around the spring, and over the course of time, a tufa tower grows. Tufa towers can grow to heights of more than 30 feet underwater. If the water level falls and the tufa is exposed to air, it can no longer grow and the towers are susceptible to erosion.

 

When you consider how tall the tufa tower is in this photo (15-20 feet) you get a good sense of how much water has evaporated since water that used to feed Mono Lake was diverted to southern California in 1941.

 

Mono Lake has actually risen since 1994 when state officials limited the diversions. They ordered the level must eventually rise to reach 6,392 feet above sea level. In 2025, the water level is about 9 feet below its legal limit.

 

Thanks for stopping by!

 

© Melissa Post 2025

 

 

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