A recent thread contained numerous comments about the pre-aquaduct state of the Owens Valley. Mark
Reissner's book, "Cadillac Desert" is a good source of information about this and suggests the valley was indeed more verdant than is now the case because all of the drainage from the Sierra stayed in the valley and the low gradient of the valley encouraged its retention. Evidently the LA
DWP did not confine itself to the diversion of Rivers, Creeks, and Streams, but also drilled numerous wells which dried up the aquifers of the valley. There was evidently lots of good meadowland at that time, perhaps reminiscent of what one can see today in the upper Carson or Walker valleys, say around Bridgeport. I realize this is somewhat off-topic, but the Owens Valley is part of the Whitney Area I suppose, and its history is of interest to those who enjoy visiting the area.
