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Bellingham, Washington
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Lake Whatcom serves as the primary drinking water source for over 100,000 residents in Bellingham and surrounding areas.
Lake Whatcom is home to the endemic Whatcom Lake smelt, a fish species found nowhere else in the world.
Spanning over 5,000 acres, Lake Whatcom is the fourth largest natural lake in Washington State.
The lake was named after the Lummi word 'Whatcom,' meaning 'noisy water,' reflecting the area's indigenous heritage.
Lake Whatcom faces significant environmental challenges, including phosphorus pollution, which affects water quality and aquatic life.
The lake offers a variety of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and hiking, with several parks and trails along its shores.
Efforts are underway to protect Lake Whatcom's ecosystem, including initiatives to reduce stormwater runoff and improve water quality.
