The fight against aquatic invasive species.

Aquatic weeds have spread to many areas around Lake Tahoe, creating the urgency that lake-wide collaboration is needed to control aquatic invasive species (AIS). The 2015 Lake Tahoe Aquatic Invasive Species Implementation Plan lists the Tahoe Keys lagoons as the highest priority areas for control of AIS in Lake Tahoe, as the largest and most persistent population of aquatic weeds grow in this location, sprawling over 172 acres of waterways.

The Growing Problem

There is growing concern about the spread of aquatic invasive and nuisance plant species which cover over 90 percent of the Tahoe Keys lagoons.

A Collaborative Multi-Stakeholder Process

TKPOA has developed an Integrated Aquatic Weed Management Plan (IMP) that is based on the most cost-effective mix of identified weed control methods. While harvesting and bottom barriers are currently allowed, the use of aquatic herbicides is being studied in partnership with TRPA and Lahontan Regional Water Quality Control Board.

EIR/EIS Process

Lead by TRPA a comprehensive assessment of the impacts of aquatic herbicides is underway to provide a scientific basis for regulatory consideration.

Best Management Practices

TKPOA is working to develop ways to minimize the quantity of fine sediments in the Tahoe Keys lagoon water. The primary method to reduce fine sediments is by increasing the number of properties that have Best Manage Practices (BMP) in place. To this end, all primary residence construction plans requiring City approval must be reviewed by ACC to ensure that BMPs are included where applicable.