What is the Aquatic Invasive Species Program?
The Tahoe RCD is the co-chair of the Lake Tahoe Aquatic Invasive Species Coordination Committee (LTAISCC), designed to collaborate on prevention, control and early detection of aquatic invasive species (AIS). The LTAISCC shares resources and information, standardizes methods for treatment and data collection, performs coordinated education and outreach activities, obtains grants, prioritizes projects and organizes effective control efforts. The Tahoe RCD leads the implementation of the prevention program and control program for aquatic invasive weed removal.
Tahoe Boat Inspection Program
Our number one defense against the introduction of new invasive species entering our waterways is through boat inspections, decontaminations, and continuous education to our users. We have effectively prevented any new species from entering Lake Tahoe since the program’s inception in 2008.
Truckee Regional AIS Program
Tahoe RCD assists in the implementation of AIS prevention for Donner Lake and waters within Nevada and Sierra County (Boca, Stampede and Prosser Reservoirs) through inspections and providing education to boaters.
Tahoe AIS Control
Tahoe RCD is working to control aquatic invasive species that have already been introduced to Lake Tahoe. Species under current management are Eurasian watermilfoil, curlyleaf pondweed, Asian clams and a variety of warm water fish including large mouth bass, black crappie and bluegill.
What are the impacts of AIS?
Lake Tahoe’s original ecosystem consisted of only one predominant predator. Over time, some non-native species have been intentionally introduced to increase sport fishing or enhance ecosystem resources. Invasive species, non-natives that are harmful to the ecosystem, have also been introduced through unknown vectors.
Aquatic Invasive Species Harm Lake Tahoe by:
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Severely decreasing recreational uses, such as swimming, boating, water-skiing, and fishing
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Degrading boats by clogging propellers and cooling intakes
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Facilitating invasions of other non-native species
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Altering nutrient cycles and increasing algal growth in the lake by adding phosphorous to the water column, thus contributing to overall clarity decline
Species of Concern:
Present in Lake Tahoe:
Eurasian watermilfoil, Curlyleaf pondweed, Largemouth bass, Asian clam
Bluegill, Bull frogs, Goldfish
NOT Present in Lake Tahoe
Zebra mussel, Quagga mussel, New Zealand mudsnail
Spiny water flea, Didymo (rock snot), And many more!