BEFORE IT REACHES THE LAKE |
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The best way to protect Tahoe this summer is to stop problems before they reach the Lake.
That means keeping golden mussels off your gear, choosing lake-friendly ways to get around, and packing for beach days so you leave nothing behind. Each one of us can do our part when we know what to do and act early.
This month, Keep Tahoe Blue is pushing for stronger statewide protections against aquatic invasive species, sharing new Car-Free, Care-Free transportation options, and celebrating the volunteers, visitors, and organizations who helped care for Tahoe over the Fourth of July weekend. |
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GOLDEN MUSSELS ARE TOO CLOSE TO TAHOE |
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Golden mussels are not in Lake Tahoe, and prevention is the only way to keep them out.
In a recent San Francisco Chronicle op-ed, Keep Tahoe Blue Natural Resource Director Laura Patten warned that golden mussels could exponentially accelerate Tahoe's slow shift from blue to a murky green if they enter the Lake. |
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Just weeks ago, that threat came close, as one of Tahoe's boat inspection stations stopped a boat carrying four golden mussels before it could launch on the Lake.
Paddleboards, kayaks, fishing gear, and even water shoes are just as likely to transport golden mussels as boats. Awareness, inspection, and vigilance are key to avoiding damage to Tahoe's waters, beaches, and your enjoyment of them.
Keep Tahoe Blue is working at the state level for stronger, consistent inspection and decontamination standards across California waterways. You have a role too: boaters must follow inspection requirements, and everyone who is planning a trip to the water should Clean, Drain, Dry all gear before entering a new waterbody, every time.
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CAR-FREE, CARE-FREE IS THE TAHOE WAY |
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Parking once and getting around Tahoe without your own car just became easier.
Starting July 15, Lake Link's free shuttles will run from the South Tahoe "Y" to the top of Kingsbury Grade. The expanded on-demand microtransit service is now organized into three zones to cover more ground and connect to other lake-friendly transportation options. That means more trips around the South Shore can start with a parked car, allowing you to enjoy Tahoe's scenic beauty.
The expansion is an example of Keep Tahoe Blue's vision for a Car-Free, Care-Free Tahoe, where residents and visitors can park once and use connected options like Lake Link, free public buses, bikes, e-scooters, and paths to get around the Basin. Fewer car trips reduce vehicle-related pollution and road congestion.
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| This summer, we encourage you to get outside and move around Tahoe without your own car. |
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The Fourth of July weekend is one of Tahoe's busiest times, and the impact of what happens on the beach reaches far beyond the shoreline.
This year, our 13th Annual Keep Tahoe Red, White & Blue Cleanup brought 446 volunteers to six sites around the Lake. Together, they found and collected less litter than last year and less than the average across the previous 12 years. |
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That progress matters. It means more people are packing out their trash, choosing reusables, using dumpsters and cans, and making simple choices to protect Tahoe. There is still work to do, but this year's cleanup showed what it looks like when the community of Tahoe-lovers, businesses, land managers, and volunteers come together and care for Tahoe.
As beach days continue, pack with Tahoe in mind: - Bring reusable water bottles, utensils, and food containers.
- Pack a trash bag for anything you bring in.
- Pick up litter, even if it is not yours.
- Clean, Drain, and Dry your gear before it touches the water.
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Park once and choose lake-friendly transportation when you can.
Small choices add up quickly on Tahoe's busiest days. Together, they help keep litter, invasive species, and pollution out of the Lake. |
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READY FOR SUNNY DAYS AT THE LAKE |
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From beach to trail, our Youth and Toddler Solar Shirts help keep kids comfortable and protected on every adventure. - Toddler Solar Shirt: Built for big Tahoe days in small sizes, our Toddler Solar Shirt delivers lightweight comfort with UPF 50+ sun protection.
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Youth Solar Hoodie: Designed for days outside, our Youth Solar Hoodie features a three-panel pullover hood for extra sun protection. It's quick-dry, moisture-wicking fabric is durable, breathable and perfect for kids and teens on the move.
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2026 Eyes on the Lake x Tahoe Keepers Chance to Win | Ends September 30, 2026 |
Do your part to preserve Lake Tahoe by reporting what you see when you're out on the water. Your reports will enter you for a chance to win gear in the monthly drawing. It is easy, free, and improves the Lake's health. |
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| Eyes on the Lake Outreach Team | Through September 2026 |
Join the Eyes on the Lake Outreach Team and help educate the community about invasive species before they reach the Lake. |
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| Emerald Bay Parking Data Collection | July 15 & 18, August 5 & 8, 2026 |
Help collect parking data at Emerald Bay and support transportation solutions that improve safety, reduce congestion, and protect Lake Tahoe. |
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Gambler’s Run Music Festival | July 23 – 25, 2026 |
Stop by Keep Tahoe Blue booth in the Non-profit Village at the Gambler's Run Music Festival to learn how you can protect Lake Tahoe. |
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How to Tahoe: Sustainable Recreation | July 30, 2026 |
Join Keep Tahoe Blue & Patagonia in Reno to learn how small choices can have a positive impact to Lake Tahoe and how to recreate responsibly. |
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| Lake Tahoe Concours d’Elegance | August 7–8, 2026 |
Stop by the Keep Tahoe Blue booth during the 52nd Annual Lake Tahoe Concours d'Elegance — America's premier wooden boat show. |
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Eyes on the Lake Training | August 13, 2026 |
Join us at Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge for our free Eyes on the Lake training to identify invasive aquatic species early and help protect Lake Tahoe’s clarity and shoreline health. |
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Eyes on the Lake Training | September 6, 2026 |
Join us at Echo Lake Chalet for our free Eyes on the Lake training to identify invasive aquatic species early and help protect Lake Tahoe’s clarity and shoreline health. |
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