Reports on social media over the Fourth of July weekend raised concerns about potential harmful algal blooms in Lake Tahoe. Water quality agencies announced earlier this week that all tests for harmful algae in the lake returned negative results, with one test from a backwater pond at Nevada Beach showing low levels of toxins. Site managers have taken steps to cordon off the area, largely diffusing concerns. However, these reports highlighted ongoing issues related to unhealthy and unnatural conditions in Lake Tahoe.
Invasive species such as Asian clam, Eurasian watermilfoil, and curlyleaf pondweed thrive in warmer waters of Lake Tahoe. These species can outcompete native ones, disrupting the lake’s natural balance in ways that are difficult or impossible to reverse. Invasive plants release nutrients as they decay, creating a self-sustaining food source and potentially harboring other invasive species like non-native fish.
The economic impact of invasive species on recreation, tourism, and infrastructure such as water supply systems could reach $42 million per year. This figure does not include costs associated with watercraft inspections, control projects, and monitoring efforts. Recognizing the importance of early intervention and prevention, the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) and Tahoe Resource Conservation District established one of the first fully mandatory watercraft inspection programs in 2008 under the Lake Tahoe Environmental Improvement Program (EIP). Since then, more than 113,000 boats have been inspected or decontaminated.
Julie Regan emphasized that "People often focus on actions toward invasive species," but noted that "we must also remember the ultimate goal is to protect and support the lake’s natural biodiversity." Restoration efforts aim to create space for Washoe Tribal heritage resurgence. The native Lahontan cutthroat trout central to Washoe life has been absent from Lake Tahoe for over a century.
Earlier this year brought positive news for Lahontan cutthroat trout recovery and various invasive species projects. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service awarded $3.4 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to boost these efforts significantly. TRPA joined Team Tahoe in securing this funding which will help construct Lake Tahoe's first permanent watercraft inspection station and support Washoe Tribe priorities including cutthroat reintroduction and habitat restoration projects at Máyala Wáta (Meeks Bay and Creek) with USDA Forest Service collaboration.
Julie Regan is Executive Director of the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency.