Should We Drain Lake Powell? A Bold Proposal to Restore America's 'Lost National Park'

A revolutionary idea to restore a vital ecosystem in the American Southwest.

The Problem

Lake Powell, America’s second-largest reservoir, is over 100 feet below its full capacity. Drought and climate change have devastated its water levels.

A Drastic Solution

Could draining Lake Powell be the answer? Experts propose transforming the area into a national park to restore its ecological value.

The Glen Canyon Legacy

Glen Canyon, the site of Lake Powell, was once considered for national park status. Could it finally become what it was always meant to be?

Ecological Rebirth

As the water level drops, native plants and wildlife are returning. This ecological rebirth is fueling calls to restore Glen Canyon.

Economic Impact

Could draining the lake impact tourism? With 5.2 million visitors in 2023, the area generates $540 million for the local economy.

The Vision for the Future

Eric Balken of the Glen Canyon Institute envisions a thriving national park, full of rafting, wildlife, and unspoiled landscapes.

The Legal Challenge

But there’s a catch. To transform the area into a national park, Congress must act. Draining the lake faces legal and political obstacles.

The 'Fill Mead First' Solution

A proposed solution: Bypass the Glen Canyon Dam and prioritize filling Lake Mead. A simpler, more sustainable approach to water management.

The Big Question

Should we drain Lake Powell? Will this bold idea transform the region? The debate over its future has just begun.