Aquatic Invasive Species Programs

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.

Tahoe Boat Inspections

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.

Truckee AIS Prevention

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.

AIS Control

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:

Severely decreasing recreational uses, such as swimming, boating, water-skiing, and fishing
Degrading boats by clogging propellers and cooling intakes
Facilitating invasions of other non-native species
Altering nutrient cycles and increasing algal growth in the lake by adding phosphorous to the water column, thus contributing to overall clarity decline