Nasty Invaders Threaten Lake Tahoe

Invasive Asian clams were first discovered in Lake Tahoe in 2001. Last spring, UC Davis researchers Scott Hackley and Brant Allen found that the mollusks had proliferated wildly in an arc along the Lake's southeast shoreline, from Zephyr Cove, Nevada, to South Lake Tahoe, California. This has prompted the launching of an eradication project aimed at determining the best way to rid our precious lake of this destructive species and prevent it from causing mayhem downstream in the Truckee River watershed. Starting in March, you'll see divers and barges in the area testing a couple of different methods of mass clam removal.

Asian clams are suspected of causing algae growth that threatens Lake Tahoe's legendary clarity. They can also alter the aquatic environment so it will support even worse invaders - quagga and zebra mussels. According to Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) officials, these mussels are nasty customers. Once established, they can literally take over their environment, resulting in harm to native species, clogged water pipes, and various other adverse economic impacts. They are already established in some southern Nevada and California waters. New Boat Inspection Rules, effective November 1, 2008, explain what boaters can and must do to help prevent the spread of these invasive species.

TRPA also has information on boating in Lake Tahoe, including how to inspect and clean your boat and a listing of watercraft and motors approved for use in the lake's waters. To learn more, call the Tahoe Aquatic Nuisance hotline at 1-888-TAHO-ANS.

For more information on this issue of critical importance to the health of Lake Tahoe, refer to the Envjournal blog and a recent article in the Reno Gazette-Journal.

Sign up to receive the Reno / Tahoe Newsletter and stay on top of what's happening.