Why does the Great Salt Lake stink?

The Great Salt Lake has a strong odor primarily due to the high concentration of brine and the decomposition of organic material in its shallow waters. As the lake's salinity levels are much higher than typical seawater, it supports certain types of bacteria that produce hydrogen sulfide gas, which has a rotten egg smell. Additionally, low water levels can expose more of the lakebed, leading to increased odors from decaying matter. These factors combined contribute to the lake's unpleasant scent.