California Regulators Reassess L.A. Water Use Impact on Mono Lake Levels

California regulators are examining Los Angeles' water use and its effects on Mono Lake, which remains below mandated levels. A UCLA study indicates that L.A.'s water exports are preventing the lake from reaching its required elevation, suggesting that halting these exports could double the likelihood of recovery within 20 years. Environmental advocates are urging L.A. to reduce its water intake from the Mono Basin to support the ecosystem, while city officials maintain that other factors significantly influence lake levels.

Published Mar 22, 2026

California regulators are reviewing Los Angeles' water usage regarding Mono Lake, which is currently about 9 feet below its mandated level. A UCLA study found that L.A.'s water exports are keeping the lake significantly lower than it could be, and halting these exports might double the chances of the lake reaching its target elevation within 20 years.

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Environmental advocates are pressing for reduced water intake from the Mono Basin to aid recovery. City officials argue that factors like precipitation and evaporation have a more substantial impact on lake levels. There are calls for the state water board to intervene, while the DWP contends that reducing water exports would not significantly accelerate lake recovery.