Spring Boat. Homewood.

Passing this along from the League to Save Lake Tahoe:

Boating on Tahoe This Summer?
Do Your Part

An infestation of invasive mussels is an immediate threat to Lake Tahoe this summer.  The quagga and zebra mussels reproduce and colonize quickly and if introduced to Lake Tahoe would do irreparable damage to our ecosystem.

The League is urging all users of Lake Tahoe to limit their boating to “dedicated” boats – that is, to use ONLY boats and accessories (including kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and other flotation devices) that are used SOLELY on Lake Tahoe, and not on other water bodies.  We know this is a sacrifice for many, but we think it is the right thing to do – the risk to Lake Tahoe is enormous, and both boating and beach enjoyment could be lost for all if these invaders infest and establish themselves here.

Boat inspectors have already discovered a number of invasive species on boats attempting to launch at Lake Tahoe.  Luckily, the boats have been quarantined and decontaminated.  But we all must realize that often times quagga and zebra mussels can be extremely difficult to see – please help us to protect Lake Tahoe by taking the following precautions:
• If you’re planning to launch a boat from shore and the boat has been in any other body of water, be sure to clean, drain, and dry it completely.  Give it a thorough visual inspection.  If you notice anything suspicious, take it to a public boat launch where it can be examined by a certified inspector.  Click here for boat launch hours and info.
• All public boat launches and marinas are now staffed by a boat inspector who examines boats for evidence of mussels.  Boat launches are only open when an inspector is present.  Click here for hours of public boat launches.
• Inspection fees for motorized boats range from $10-60 depending on the size of boat.   All funds go directly to the inspection program.  There is currently no charge to inspect a nonmotorized watercraft.
For more information, visit www.protecttahoe.org. Thanks for helping to Keep Tahoe Blue and mussel free!