Embarc Tahoe dispensary now open in South Lake Tahoe

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The first cannabis dispensary to operate under the new City of South Lake Tahoe rules and regulations is now open.

Embarc Tahoe has opened its doors and held an official ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday with Mayor Jason Collin, Mayor Pro Tem Tamara Wallace, members of the Embarc Tahoe team and the South Tahoe Chamber of Commerce.

Owner Christy Wilson moved into what was once Tahoe Teriyaki and has since been several different businesses.

"It was a big construction project," said Wilson, a nine-year resident of the South Shore. Not much remains of the original building which is next door to Tahoe Toms and across from Heavenly Village, at 4035 Lake Tahoe Blvd.

Embarc Tahoe is the first new dispensary to open after the City of South Lake Tahoe approved a cannabis ordinance. Wilson said she has worked in collaboration with city officials, local stakeholders and community groups throughout the permitting and building process. There are three other new dispensaries in the works. The next one to open will be near the intersection of Lake Tahoe Boulevard and Pioneer Trail. Wilson says the new retail licensees are in communication with each other as they move into a new form of retail at the lake.

The retail location is led by a team of seasoned professionals and "will redefine the relationship between consumers and cannabis, focusing on health, relaxation, recreation, wellness, and approachability." The modern features of the store are meant to welcome everyone, those experienced with cannabis and those who are not.

“The breadth and depth of expertise that the Embarc team has drawn upon when approaching this process is second to none,” said Mayor Jason Collin. “We’re pleased to welcome a business to our community that has such a focus on collaborative spirit, education, sustainability and commitment to South Lake Tahoe.”

Embarc has assembled a Community Advisory Panel to ensure the dispensary operates with the highest levels of integrity and with input from leaders in education, youth services, business, healthcare, and public safety.

“Embarc has committed to robust education about cannabis in our community and will serve as a benefactor to the organizations that support our city’s youth drug prevention program,” said Boys and Girls Club of Lake Tahoe Executive Director Jude Wood. “This thoughtful approach is exactly the kind of partner we need to educate about cannabis in the Tahoe Basin.”

Wilson has already collaborated with the South Tahoe Drug Free Coalition and supported the volunteer group with a new website and the promise of more collaboration in the future.

“As parents and community members, we recognize the importance of an operating team that aligns with local values and meets the needs of both residents and visitors,” said Wilson. “Ensuring adult-use cannabis is indeed used only by adults, except in cases of medical necessity, is vital to the health and well-being of our youth, families and community.”

There are stringent rules at the dispensary, evident the minute one walks in. There are security guards and a staff member ready to scan identification to ensure the holder has a valid ID and is over the required age of 21. Social distancing rules are in place as well from everyone wearing masks, both staff and guests, and six-foot (or 22 pre-rolls) distance markers on the group.

Products on display include items for pets, merchandise, lotions, and wellness products using CBD, TCH-infused drinks, and edibles.

Embarc Tahoe will be open seven days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.