LADWP Celebrates Second Annual Mono Lake Day with Continued Commitment to Environmental Stewardship

LOS ANGELES (September 26, 2025) - The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) today observed the second annual Mono Lake Day, celebrated on September 28, to recognize more than 30 years of environmental stewardship and success in balancing natural resource protection with urban water needs.

Mono Lake Day honors the 1994 State Water Resources Control Board Decision 1631, which established protections for Mono Lake and is considered one of California's most significant environmental success stories.

Since 1994, LADWP has invested nearly $50 million in enhancing the ecosystem, wildlife and recreation in the broader Mono Basin. These efforts include restoring approximately 20 miles of streams, including over 800 acres of wetlands, and numerous habitat enhancement projects. Additionally, LADWP has reduced water exports from the Mono Basin by 85%, balancing the needs of the environment with the human right to water.

Mayor Karen Bass underscored the City's continued commitment to climate resilience and sustainable water management.

"Mono Lake Day reminds us that Los Angeles can meet the challenges of climate change while protecting the places that make California special," said Mayor Bass. "Through conservation, restoration and smart investment, the City of Los Angeles is working to preserve the Mono Basin's vital ecosystems while keeping our city's water supply reliable and affordable. This is climate resilience in action, and I am proud that Los Angeles continues to lead."

"Thoughtful management of our water resources is more important than ever in these challenging times of extended drought, extreme weather events, and climate change impacts," said Los Angeles City Councilmember Adrin Nazarian, who chairs the Council's Energy and Environment Committee. "For over 30 years, Decision 1631 has allowed the people of Los Angeles continued access to water for consumption and power generation while preserving a magnificent natural ecosystem. Mono Lake has a special place in the hearts of Angelenos, and we observe Mono Lake Day to celebrate Mono Lake's continuing role in the City's sustainable water future.

Mono Basin remains a vital source of reliable and energy-efficient water for Los Angeles. It can serve up to 200,000 residents annually while generating green power that helps the City meet its sustainability goals. Thanks to LADWP's continued investment and the commitment of its ratepayers, Mono Lake has experienced a steady recovery even as other saline lakes in the arid West have declined. LADWP's ability to use Mono Basin water also reduces its reliance on water from stressed water systems, including the State Water Project and the Colorado River.

"Mono Lake is not only a spectacular natural wonder but also a living symbol of how Los Angeles can balance water reliability with environmental stewardship," said Richard Katz, President of the Los Angeles Board of Water and Power Commissioners. "We remain deeply committed to protecting Mono Lake's unique ecosystem, supporting wildlife along the Pacific Flyway, and ensuring that Angelenos - particularly our most vulnerable residents - continue to receive safe, reliable, sustainable and affordable water. The investments we continue to make in Mono Lake will safeguard nature and people for future generations."

To learn more about LADWP in the Eastern Sierra, visit ladwp.com/EasternSierra.