By David H. Gibson
Located in Dallas, TX
Reflections on Eagle Nest Lake
"My first trip to Eagle Nest Lake was over 30 years ago. I was captivated by mists rising over the lake and flowing along the floor of the valley. With a background in theater, the unfolding light events immediately commanded my attention. The first photographs were made and I was hooked on Eagle Nest Lake and the opportunities it presented for photography. It has become my custom during an annual August visit to Taos, to begin the day with a drive to Eagle Nest Lake through Taos Canyon and over the pass descending into Moreno Valley. The first glimpse of the valley through the trees reveals the atmospheric conditions for the morning. The valley is 8,300 feet above sea level. This high elevation produces crisp cool mornings with mists often filling the valley.
Early on I had no idea that I would be committed to this ethereal place for such a long time. During those first visits, cattle were grazing around the lake and the owners of a ranching operation had allowed lake access for fishermen. I learned later that the lake was formed by a dam built by two ranchers in the early 20th century to impound water of the Cimarron River for irrigation. This created a two thousand acre lake named for the eagles nesting in the area. The lake was stocked and fishermen arrived. The Eagle Nest...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Landscape Photography
MaterialsArchival Pigment