Conservation

Annual Swan Lake Clean-up (Photo Courtesy of E. Zawadzka)

Swan Lake includes several of the most sensitive habitat types found in Nevada.  And not unlike other areas, Swan Lake is faced with a myriad of issues that affect these sensitive habitats and ultimately the wildlife that depends on these habitats.

Habitat Issues and/or Threats 

Water Quantity and Quality: 
Swan Lake encompasses approximately 1000 acres at normal high water levels, and in drought periods
the marsh shrinks to some 200 acres. The management of the water resources is a foremost concern as the health of wetland and playa habitats are interwoven with the amount and quality of surface and groundwater resources.

Another issue related to water management is the erosion of the Horse Creek streambanks.  With the high water flows, streambank erosion due to channelization and the subsequent sedimentation in the playa wetlands are creating enormous impacts to the functionality of the channel and wetlands and the composition of the adjacent vegetation communities.

Invasive Plants:
Invasive, non-native plants have been a management challenge at Swan Lake.  Species, such as perennial pepperweed (tall whitetop), musk thistle, Scotch thistle, and foxtail barley, have infested large areas within the Swan Lake Nature Study Area.  Invasive plants will outcompete native plants and negatively impact wildlife habitat. Due to the sensitivity of the wetland and playa habitats, preventing invasive plant species from establishing in these systems is paramount.

Human-related Issues:
Human disturbances and effects are commonplace due to the population density within Lemmon Valley. Issues, such as off-road vehicle use and illegal dumping, have been prevalent throughout the area.  Additionally, the encroachment of housing and building development will ultimately have an impact on the wildlife communities and the overall health of the playa-wetland system.


Swan Lake Conservation and Preservation Goals

Manage and/or enhance functioning habitats capable of sustaining a diverse variety of wildlife

species and maintaining populations of priority species.

Work to maximize the water resources through advocacy of proper water management and

monitoring to ensure long term water dependent habitat.

Secure long-term protection of the Swan Lake Nature Study Area as open space and maintain

open space values within the study area of influence.

Continue to develop outdoor passive recreational areas where visitors can enjoy an array of

wildlife oriented activities.

Foster greater community support, stewardship and appreciation for the intrinsic natural

qualities and recreational opportunities that can be found at the Swan Lake Nature Study Area.