Hybrid public meeting scheduled October 14
South Lake Tahoe, Calif. – Partner agencies are working to find a permanent home for the aquatic invasive species (AIS) watercraft inspection station in Meyers, Calif. where approximately 2,000 boats are inspected every year to protect Lake Tahoe from aquatic invaders. The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA), El Dorado County, California Tahoe Conservancy, and Tahoe Resource Conservation District will host a public meeting Monday, October 14 at 5:30 p.m. at the Lake Valley Fire Protection District station in Meyers to discuss the proposed site.
The existing, leased location at 2175 Keetak Street requires seasonal setup and breakdown and is unlikely to meet long-term needs of the Lake Tahoe Aquatic Invasive Species Program, according to the agencies.
“The existing Meyers site has been instrumental in helping us inspect and decontaminate thousands of boats to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species throughout the Lake Tahoe Region,” TRPA Aquatic Invasive Species Program Manager Dennis Zabaglo said. “The primary goal of relocating the station is to allow for more sustainable and efficient operations that better protect our beloved lakes and streams from the damage that invasive species can cause.”
Since the watercraft inspection program began in 2008, more than 113,000 vessels have been inspected at seasonal inspection stations around Lake Tahoe to help boaters get on the water safely and efficiently. There are typically three stations operating near key entry points during the boating season, with the Meyers station serving the southern portion of the Tahoe Basin and two entry points.
The proposed new location is on four California Tahoe Conservancy asset land parcels on Pomo Street near the junction of State Route 89 and U.S. Highway 50. Unlike most Conservancy properties that were acquired to protect environmentally sensitive land or provide public access and recreation benefits, asset lands are typically non-sensitive parcels that can support sustainable development consistent with local area plans. A permanent facility also provides the opportunity for onsite workforce housing for watercraft station inspectors in summer and snow removal staff in winter.
The meeting can be attended online and in person in the Lake Valley Fire Protection District Training Room at 2211 Keetak Street, Meyers, Calif. 96150. Agency representatives will present an overview of the proposed project and facilitate a discussion to help guide the planning process. Online attendees can register here.
Get more information and sign up for email updates on the Lake Tahoe Environmental Improvement Program Tracker.
About the Watercraft Inspection Program
Every motorized boat that enters Lake Tahoe must be inspected at a watercraft inspection station prior to launching. The Lake Tahoe Watercraft Inspection Program has intercepted hundreds of potential invaders that can harm Lake Tahoe’s ecosystem and famed clarity. Aquatic invasive species (AIS) can also impact the region’s businesses and communities. Invasive species do not have predators and, once introduced, are difficult if not impossible to eradicate. Paddlers, anglers, and beachgoers can learn how to stop the spread of AIS by becoming a Tahoe Keeper. Visit tahoeboatinspections.com for more information.
###
The Lake Tahoe Aquatic Invasive Species Program is implemented by 40 public and private partner organizations, including federal, state, and local jurisdictions, research partners, public utility districts, and private marinas. The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency and the Tahoe Resource Conservation District lead the program in collaboration with the public and private partners. The program’s mission is to prevent, detect, and control aquatic invasive species in the Region so that future generations can enjoy Lake Tahoe. For additional information, contact contact Jeff Cowen, TRPA Public Information Officer, at 775-589-5278.