During the past 149 years, the Great Salt Lake has peaked three times at 4,211 feet above sea level: 4,211.60 feet in June 1873, 4,211.50 feet in June 1986, and 4,211.60 feet in June 1987. This picture of the Saltair Resort on the southeast shore of the Great Salt Lake was taken during the flood years of the 1980’s. Large pumps were installed on the west side of the Great Salt Lake (at a cost of $60 million) and began pumping water into the west desert in 1987. These pumps now make it possible for man to control the level of the lake. (Photo courtesy of the National Weather Service.) |