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Video |
The Las Vegas Wash is the primary channel through which the valley's excess water returns to Lake Mead. Learn how this local wetlands helps extend our water supply. (5:51)
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The Las Vegas Wash is a tributary that channels
stormwater, urban runoff, shallow groundwater and highly-treated wastewater
into the Las Vegas Bay at Lake Mead.
Less than 2 percent of Lake Mead's water comes
from the Wash, but it is of particular interest to the Las Vegas Valley
Water District for the unique role it plays in the valley's ecological
picture.
The Wash is a natural wetlands
and its marshy qualities help polish impurities from the water flow.
In addition, the wetlands area is home to a variety of plant and
animal species.
The Wash's banks have suffered
large-scale erosion over the past 20 years and are in danger of
further erosion which could eliminate the channel. Efforts are currently
under way to strengthen the banks and expand the Wash.
As a member agency of the Southern
Nevada Water Authority, the Water District assists in programs
to help protect and restore the Las Vegas Wash. For
more information, continue to the Las
Vegas Wash Web site.
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