TRPA: What's new for the 2019 Lake Tahoe boating season

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev. – New boating safety programs are coming online at Lake Tahoe this summer, according to the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA).

Additional enforcement of no-wake zones and excessive boat noise under TRPA’s Shoreline Program are two measures being taken to protect the lake and non-motorized watercraft and swimmers. Boat inspections fees are also being adjusted for the first time in seven years to better safeguard the lake from aquatic invasive species, and sticker fees now include a $12 fee as part of the Shoreline Program.

Safety & Environmental Measures

Lake Tahoe has no-wake zones to keep boaters, paddlers, and swimmers safe. Boats must stay under 5 mph within Emerald Bay, as well as within 600 feet of shore, 100 feet of paddlers and swimmers, and 200 feet of shoreline structures. A Lake Tahoe boating app to help inform boaters about the lake and the location of no-wake zones will be available this summer.

Boats must also comply with noise limits and keep exhaust systems muffled so all visitors can enjoy a peaceful Lake Tahoe. Exceptions are in place for classic and antique boats. Vessels also should be “Clean, Drained, and Dry” before arriving at Lake Tahoe watercraft inspection stations to ensure an efficient launch and help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.

Boater Fees Changing

Boat sticker fees increased by $12 as part of the Shoreline Program approved by the Governing Board last fall. These fees will help pay for boater education, no-wake zone enforcement, and projects to prevent the spread of harmful aquatic invasive species in Lake Tahoe. The 2019 inspection fee schedule condenses 13 categories to five to make it easier to understand and more accurately reflect inspection work and boat complexity. Decontamination fees were also modified to reflect the work it takes to decontaminate watercraft. To find out how the new fee schedule affects you, please visit tahoeboatinspections.com.

“In 2018, the Lake Tahoe Boat Inspection Program celebrated 10 years of success, with no new invasions since the program began,” said Tom Boos, TRPA aquatic invasive species prevention coordinator. “The 2019 fee schedule allows for the sustainability of the program.”

Controlling existing invasive species in the lake is also a priority.

“Proven methods are being used to systematically remove aquatic invasive species infestations around the lake,” said Sara Matthews, Tahoe Resource Conservation District aquatic invasive species control coordinator. “These projects contribute to improving natural lake habitats and the quality of recreation.”

The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency leads the cooperative effort to preserve, restore, and enhance the unique natural and human environment of the Lake Tahoe Region, while improving local communities, and people’s interactions with our irreplaceable environment. For additional information, contact Adam Jensen, Environmental Education Specialist, at (775) 589-5251.

For more on the 2019 boating season, visit http://www.trpa.org/whats-new-for-lake-tahoes-2019-boating-season/