In this episode of H2O and Beyond, I’m joined by Dr. Kevin Perry from the University of Utah to uncover the science behind one of the most urgent environmental issues in the American West: the shrinking Great Salt Lake and the dust it’s leaving behind.

Dr. Perry spent years studying the exposed lakebed — even biking more than 2,300 miles around it — to map where dust originates and what’s actually in it. His research reveals surprising truths about arsenic levels, dust “hotspots,” and how only a small fraction of the lakebed is responsible for most dust emissions.

We’ll also dig into his thoughts on the role of scientists in today’s society, and how important it is to maintain credibility as a researcher.

0:00 Intro

6:15 Introduction to the Great Salt Lake

8:25 Why is the lake shrinking?

12:23 What happens when the lake shrinks?

14:03 Research techniques utilized

18:23 Elements of concern in the dust

24:19 Dust events in Utah

28:41 Current efforts to save the lake

34:49 Future of the lake

38:10 Role of scientists in society

42:58 Advice for listeners

46:32 Closing

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Learn more about Dr. Perry’s work!

https://gardner.utah.edu/great-salt-lake-strike-team/ (Great Salt Lake Strike Team)

https://webapps.usgs.gov/gsl/ (USGS Hydromapper - GSL Data

)https://greatsaltlake.utah.gov/wp-content/uploads/Great-Salt-Lake-Strategic-Plan-1.pdf (GSL Strategic Plan)

https://water.utah.gov/gsl-basin-integrated-plan/ (GSL Basin Integrated Plan)

https://d1bbnjcim4wtri.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/10101816/GSL_Dust_Plumes_Final_Report_Complete_Document.pdf (GSL Dust Composition Report)