Forums > Areas > Jalisco's Lake Chapala Region

dleach

Mar 30, 2003, 8:05 AM

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Lake Level?

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It has been a while since I've read anything on the lake level. I know it's the dry season, but how does the lake level compare to last year at this time?

Thanks.

johanson

Mar 30, 2003, 11:08 AM

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Re: [dleach] Lake Level?

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As I look out my window I know it is higher than last year but still quite low. How much higher? This is a wild guess, but perhaps a foot. Sorry I can't be more specific.

jsandrock

Mar 30, 2003, 5:43 PM

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Re: [johanson] Lake Level?

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Greetings ... since a couple of you are on the topic of the lake level, I thought I'd post a query as to how serious this water business is. We are planning to come to Mexico from Santa Fe, NM, which has had a horrible drought that has lasted several years; severe water restrictions, no watering of gardens, no washing of cars, no fountains, etc. etc. There is a part of me that says "this is going to be the story of the 21st century all over the world, water will be a fought-over resource" and then there is a part of me that says "well, maybe you can at least still water your garden around Lake Chapala. and I can have a few flowers at least."

So how serious IS the water problem? As potential home buyers, what sorts of questions should we be asking? I know we need to learn about storage tanks and cisterns -- any other suggestions to make sure we don't make a dumb mistake? We are used to living with water conservation but it would be nice to have a LITTLE leeway when we retire, especially since I love to garden. And how about all those pools I see in pictures on the real estate websites? CAn you actually keep them filled and clean with a water shortage (here in Santa Fe a pool is a big political no-no!)

Thanks!

Jsandrock

johanson

Mar 30, 2003, 7:42 PM

Post #4 of 6 (335 views)

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Re: [jsandrock] Lake Level?

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One has to respect water usage. I've never had to drain my pool, but I've let the grass get a little yellow. And I didn't wash the car. But there was always enough water for the plants.

but that is usually from about April 15th to the beginning of the rainy season about June 15th.

jsandrock

Mar 30, 2003, 8:08 PM

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Re: [johanson] Lake Level?

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It doesn't sound like this is the end of the world! Especially if it's only for part of the year. We should be able to live with that easily! I sure would love to have a pool...I bet it's really nice. I grew up with a pool and seeing all those photos of houses with pools makes me realize how much I have missed having one! To sit beside, margarita in hand...(do I sound like I'm ready for retirement or WHAT??)

Thanks,

jsandrock

Uncle Donnie

Mar 30, 2003, 10:03 PM

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Re: [jsandrock] Lake Level?

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Hi folks,

A lot of a person's perception of the lake level depends upon where you are. Out here in the country we have a lot more shallow water plant life and that makes the entire shoreline look better and fuller.

From the hills above San Pedro the lake looks as though it's very deep, right on up to the shore. And the two parts of Mezcala Island are divided by water now, which they weren't last year at this time.

The Lake is still in danger, still low, and still in need of assistance but it's also still beautiful in many places.

As for your analysis of global water concerns, I read in one of the major scientific mags awhile back that companies are set up to go into countries and buy the rights to control (sell and ration) their water supplies. Now THAT'S scary!

Hang tight to that dream too because it's one that's absolutely a possibility down here. Even at a relatively small rent ($500-600 or less if you're patient). And if not at your own house, maybe a nice condo.

Shameless self-promotion:
http://www.headformexico.com