After the Spanish conquest of Mexico, the canals and dikes were neglected and the lake began to recede. By the 19th century, the lake had almost completely disappeared, replaced by a vast plain. The construction of the Valley of Mexico's drainage system in the early 20th century helped to prevent flooding, but also contributed to the lake's disappearance.
Today, the lake in the Valley of Mexico is a fraction of its former size and is primarily used for recreation and agriculture. The disappearance of the lake has had a significant impact on the environment and the people of the Valley of Mexico. The loss of the lake has led to a decrease in biodiversity, changes in the climate, and an increased risk of flooding.