Relevance

Maintaining the biological integrity of Lake Tahoe’s nearshore environment is a longtime goal of resource managers in the region and has been set forth in a variety of planning documents. Submerged aquatic vegetation is an important biological component within Lake Tahoe’s nearshore context. Knowing the status of submerged aquatic plant populations at Lake Tahoe has become increasingly important to nearshore managers due to the introduction and spread of invasive species such as Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum) and curly-leaf pondweed (Potamogeton crispus). Aquatic invasive plants when left unchecked can affect fishing experiences, water quality, fish and wildlife habitat conditions, human and animal health, vessel navigation, and the recreation values of water bodies.

Human and Environmental Drivers

Non-native species have been both intentionally and unintentionally introduced to Lake Tahoe over the last 150 years. Habitat modification such as channelization and modification of the Truckee Marsh for the Tahoe Keys also created micro-environments within the lake that may be more suitable for colonization by AIS. Climate change further threatens to alter the lake’s physical environment, with the potential for making further AIS establishment more likely.

Example EIP Projects

• Aquatic Invasive Species Veliger Monitoring

  This EIP project monitors for the presence of Quagga and Zebra mussel and Asian clam veligers in Lake Tahoe.

• Sand Harbor Aquatic Invasive Asian Clam Control

  This project treated 16 acres of an estimated 22 acre Asian clam infestation at Sand Harbor.

Local and Regional Plans

• Aquatic Invasive Species Action Agenda 2021-2030

  The AIS Action Agenda identifies priority projects and establishes treatment goals for the next 10 years.