Mono Lake

This lake was losing water rapidly when Los Angelus diverted water from the streams that filled it for the city's use. A court ruling in 1994 ended this practice.
Water levels fell low enough that these tufa towers, which were originally under water were exposed above the Lake's levels. They formed when smowmelt from the Sierras, carrying calcium seeped into the Lake. This fresh water, which is less dense than the Lake's salt water rose towards the surface. The calcium reacted with carbonate in the Lake, forming these towers.

These are fascinating formations... but they should really be under water! As the Lake fills in, water will cover them again. People wjho are around then will refer to pictures to remember these wild "sculptures".