Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention
This standard articulates one of the broad goals of the AIS program, preventing new AIS from entering the lake. Since 2008, the nationally recognized Lake Tahoe Watercraft Inspection Program has prevented new AIS from entering the lake. Under the program, all motorized watercraft are inspected (and cleaned when necessary) prior to launch to prevent the introduction of new AIS. The prevention program also emphasizes preventing the transport of already established aquatic invasive species to other lakes within the Region.
Status
Watercraft Inspections for Invasive Species Prior to Launch
Evaluation Map
The location of watercraft inspection stations.
2019 Evaluation
- Status
- At or Somewhat Better Than Target
- Trend
- Little or No Change
- Confidence
- High
Applicable Standard
WQ8: Prevent the introduction of new aquatic invasive species into the region’s waters.
Key Points
- No newly introduced aquatic species have been documented in Lake Tahoe since the standard was adopted in 2012.
- Prior to the adoption of the standard, 30 non-native aquatic species were already established in the Tahoe Basin's waters.
- To ensure no new species become established all boats are inspected prior to entering Lake Tahoe. Inspectors decontaminated an average of 4,155 boats annually between 2016 and 2019 to prevent AIS introductions to the lake.
Delivering and Measuring Success
EIP Indicators
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Watercraft Inspections for Invasive Species
Over 88,000 watercraft have been inspected for invasive species prior to launching from 2009 through 2019.
Example EIP Projects
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Prevention of New Aquatic Invasive Species Infestations
This program includes education/outreach, watercraft inspections, and decontaminations to ensure no new infestations of AIS.
Local and Regional Plans
- Lake Tahoe Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan
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Aquatic Invasive Species Action Agenda 2021-2030
The AIS Action Agenda identifies priority projects and establishes treatment goals for the next 10 years.