Single Noise Events
Single noise event threshold standards adopted by TRPA are based on the numerical value associated with the maximum measured level in acoustical energy during an event. High noise levels can reduce the public's enjoyment of the natural environment, impact the quality of life for residents, and disturb native wildlife. Single noise events are caused by a variety of sources in the Tahoe Region including motorized vehicles and watercraft, snowmobiles, and aircraft. Regional programs such as prohibiting noisy boat engines and limiting certain aircraft flights into the South Lake Tahoe airport aim to reduce single noise events in the Region.
Prior peer reviews of TRPA’s 2011 and 2015 Threshold Evaluations suggested that TRPA’s noise program is “too complex and resource intensive,” and recommended that TRPA review and evaluate the noise threshold standards, particularly the single noise event evaluation criteria, which was deemed “unrealistic.” Based on these reviews, limited noise monitoring resources were prioritized to noise sources that are more responsive to management actions.
Indicators
| THRESHOLD CATEGORY REPORTING CATEGORY INDICATOR |
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| THRESHOLD CATEGORY REPORTING CATEGORY INDICATOR |
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The threshold evaluation assigns a status to an indicator relative to the adopted standard. As shown on the icon legend below, the background color of the reporting icon communicates the indicator “status” or estimate of current condition. For numerical standards, the status of an indicator is classified into “better” or “worse” categories based on the percent divergence of the current indicator value from the standard or interim target. For most indicators, the current value is taken directly from the value recorded in the most recent year. In some cases, the average value calculated from all data collected during the evaluation period is used. When an average value is used, it is noted and explained on the indicator evaluation page for that specific evaluation year.
Note: Thresholds reported as "Implemented" refer to thresholds that were adopted as policy guidance in the development of the Regional Plan. In these cases, the subject policies, ordinances, or environmental protections have been incorporated into the TRPA Regional Plan and TRPA Code of Ordinances.