Clear Lake is the oldest species-rich, warm water, natural lake in North America. With 68 square miles of surface area, it is also the largest, natural freshwater lake in California. Clear Lake supports the surrounding ecosystems of native plants and animals, including endangered and rare species essential to the traditional cultural resources and economies of the seven local California Native American tribes. The Lake faces environmental challenges such as harmful algal blooms (HABs) and mercury contamination from legacy mining issues, agricultural runoff and development. These challenges impact human, animal, and habitat health, increase water treatment costs, and depress the local economy.
The Blue Ribbon Committee for the Rehabilitation of Clear Lake, within the California Natural Resources Agency, is tasked with developing strategies to clean up the Lake and revitalize local economies dependent on Lake health. The Committee evaluates and recommends projects that reflect local priorities, environmental needs, and the latest scientific research.
To date, the State has committed approximately $46 million for Clear Lake projects. $20 million of this amount will be funded by the Climate Bond (Proposition 4), approved by voters on November 5, 2024.
The Clear Lake Rehabilitation Team
Jennifer Thomas, Program Manager
Aston Tennefoss, Program Lead
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