Businesses recognized for keeping Lake Tahoe blue

The League to Save Lake Tahoe has launched a program that recognizes Tahoe-based businesses taking action to protect Lake Tahoe.

So far, nine local businesses have pledged their commitment to Keep Tahoe Blue: Azul Latin Kitchen, Ernie’s Coffee Shop, High Sierra Gardens, Lake of the Sky Outfitters, RISE Designs, Tahoe Blue Vodka, Tahoe Sports & Entertainment, Tahoe Training Camps, and The Free Bird.

“We are so excited to see these businesses taking steps to protect Lake Tahoe,” said Marilee Movius, the League’s community engagement manager. “Through their participation in the Blue Business program, these businesses are committing to adopt Tahoe-friendly practices. They are also providing critical support — both in funding and as hands-on partners — for the League’s programs to Keep Tahoe Blue.”

Those who are on board have committed to:

· Be Blue: Adopt Tahoe-friendly practices at their business.
· Join Blue: Partner with the League on one of our many community events or assist in spreading the word on how to Keep Tahoe Blue to their customers.
· Support Blue: Become a member of the League to Save Lake Tahoe by making an annual donation.

“We joined the Keep Tahoe Blue Business Program because we feel strongly that our business has the ability to impact our community in many ways,” said Daniel Scott, general manager of Azul Latin Kitchen. Azul founded an annual Earth Day cleanup with the League and others for the area surrounding Heavenly Village, and plans to partner with the League on future cleanups.

“We believe in the League's mission to protect the water quality of Lake Tahoe,” said Kent Baer, Co-owner of Ernie’s Coffee Shop, which has provided lunch vouchers to community members volunteering at the League’s environmental restoration event in June. Ernie’s is also taking steps to limit single-use plastics and energy use in their restaurant, and as part of the program, will encourage employees to walk, bike or carpool to work, helping reduce pollution that threatens the Lake’s clarity.

“It is great to see Tahoe businesses set such an excellent example for the whole community and our millions of visitors on how locals protect Lake Tahoe,” said Jesse Patterson, the League’s deputy director. “Working together, we can Keep Tahoe Blue.”

Do you own a local Tahoe business? Do you want to protect Lake Tahoe? Learn more about the Keep Tahoe Blue Business Program and how to become a member at keeptahoeblue.org/blue-business, or contact Marilee Movius at 530.541.5388 or by email at events@keeptahoe.org.