1. Ride your bike, take the trolley, walk or carpool.
Excessive automobile use degrades air quality in the Basin and contributes to the decline in Tahoe’s clarity. Before you get in your car, think about how you might be able to consolidate trips….or opt for another mode of transportation.
2.
Choose low-impact recreational opportunities.
Choose lake-friendly activities such as kayaking, hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. You'll actually enjoy the lake in a whole different way.
3.
Stay on trails when you hike or bike.
Straying from the trail causes excessive erosion.
4.
Get educated and involved.
Educate yourself on local environmental issues and regulations. Joining the League to Save Lake Tahoe and our new project, the Upper Truckee River Watershed Stewardship Group, is a great way to learn about what’s happening in Lake Tahoe. Put your knowledge to work and get involved with League events like our annual Tahoe Forest Stewardship Day. For more information on volunteering, contact us at 530.541.5388.
5. Pick up after your pet.
Animal waste contains nutrients which can wash into the lake and contribute to algae growth.
6. Pave your driveway.
Sediments from even the most compacted dirt driveway wash into the nearest storm drain and into Lake Tahoe during a rainfall or snowmelt. Paving your driveway will also reduce the amount of dust in the air during the dry summer months.
7. Check the condition of your wood stove.
Wood smoke contributes to air quality problems. If you have an old wood stove, look into purchasing a newer, EPA-certified stove or fireplace insert. These typically use half the wood to generate the same amount of heat as an old stove, so you’ll save money and help the environment! Better yet, look into wood stove alternatives such as gas!
8. Install Best Management Practices (BMP’s) on your property.
BMP’s are ways to control the runoff from your property and they are required for all properties in the Basin. The BMP’s you need depend on your property type, but examples include building infiltration trenches, paving your driveway, and covering bare soil. To find out which BMP’s will work for your property, contact the TRPA’s Erosion Control Team for information about a free site evaluation at 775-588-4547.
9. Use native plants when landscaping.
Native or adapted plants are easier to maintain, require little irrigation, and little fertilizer. For a list of these plants, contact the TRPA or drop by the League Info. Center for a Home Landscaping Guide.
10. Reduce your carbon footprint.
New research shows that Lake Tahoe could be vastly impacted by global climate change. Do your part to start global cooling by doing simple steps around your home or office. |
