Within the Clear Lake basin, numerous volcanic gas vents, some submerged beneath its surface, add to its geological intrigue. Remarkably, with over 400 feet of sediment on its bed, Clear Lake acts as a natural time capsule, offering researchers a glimpse into millions of years of Earth's history. This invaluable data contributes to understanding our planet's response to climate change and the long-term effects of human activity on lakes.

However, Clear Lake's complexity has historically confounded a comprehensive grasp of its physical, chemical, and biological processes, making lake management a challenge. For instance, issues like hazardous algal blooms (HAB), increasingly prevalent in lakes globally in the 21st century, lack sufficient data. Focusing research efforts on such processes increases the likelihood of developing sustainable solutions, which can benefit not just Clear Lake but also lakes worldwide.

Although Clear Lake has a history of scientific study, much of this was conducted by outside entities that departed once their research concluded. The Clear Lake Environmental Research Center now aims to be a stable, ongoing organization ensuring continuous, focused, and productive research.

Locating scientific research and educational programs along Clear Lake's shores presents an opportunity to invigorate Lake County's economy. Continuous scientific study and education in the community can generate spillover economic development, benefiting its residents.

Clear Lake is already a prominent hub for outdoor recreation, including activities like bass fishing, kayaking, water skiing, and bird watching. The community's interest in sharing Clear Lake with ecotourists who wish to experience this unique natural gem while learning about and preserving the environment is palpable. The establishment of facilities like a visitor's center/museum and hands-on environmental education programs is essential for enabling visitors to explore and appreciate the lake. This stands as one of CLERC's primary long-term objectives.