Events & Awards

In addition to a wide range of educational programs, the Mono Lake Committee hosts a number of special events and award ceremonies each year.

Annual Events

Mono Basin Bird Chautauqua

Not your ordinary bird festival, this is a three-day celebration of birds, art, and science in the Mono Basin each June organized with California State Parks and local agency and organization partners. Learn more about the Mono Basin Bird Chautauqua here.

Andrea Lawrence Award Dinner

Each spring, we gather to celebrate the legacy of Andrea Lawrence—Olympic double gold medalist and visionary environmental leader—and to present the Andrea Lawrence Award for passionate engagement in community and the land. Learn more about the Andrea Lawrence Award Dinner here.

Tioga Pass Run

Every September this run starts at the Mono Lake Committee Information Center & Bookstore and ends 12.4 miles later and 3,200 feet higher at Tioga Pass, elevation 9,943 feet above sea level. See a recap of the 2023 run here. The 2024 Tioga Pass Run will take place on Sunday, September 8, 2024.

Biennial Events

Trail Chic Fashion Show Fundraiser

Fashion meets function in this fun runway show that raises funds to help Mono Basin Outdoor Education Center students from under-resourced communities get to Mono Lake. Learn more about Trail Chic here.

Defender of the Trust Award Dinner

The Mono Lake Defender of the Trust Award Dinner is a celebratory evening in the company of fellow champions of Mono Lake. The Mono Lake Committee gives the Defender of the Trust Award to individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to champion Mono Lake, its tributary streams, wetlands, and the public trust.