The Salton Sea: An account of Harriman's fight with the Colorado River

Name: The Salton Sea: An account of Harriman's fight with the Colorado River
Author: George Kennan

By George Kennan

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Environmental Issues History - American History - Modern (1750+)

About This Book

The narrative traces the region's geologic past as an ancient shallow sea and explains how sediment from a great river isolated the basin, leaving a dry sink. It recounts later human irrigation that created a fertile desert oasis, the catastrophic breach of the river that refilled the depression as an inland sea, and the determined efforts led by E. H. Harriman and engineers to close the breach, protect reclaimed lands, and restore agricultural productivity. Chapters combine geology, engineering, flood accounts, and the valley's economic recovery.

About the Author

George Kennan

George Kennan was an American explorer, writer, and journalist known for his vivid accounts of his travels and experiences in remote regions. His notable works include "Campaigning in Cuba," which details his observations during the Spanish-American War, and "Tent Life in Siberia," where he recounts his adventures among the indigenous tribes of Kamchatka. Kennan's writings often reflect his deep appreciation for the landscapes and cultures he encountered, contributing significantly to the literature of exploration and travel in the late 19th century. His work remains a valuable resource for understanding the historical context of his journeys.