Updated video educates on how to prevent the spread of invasive species
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: McKenzie Koch
June 28, 2024
Lake Tahoe, Nev./Calif. — Tahoe Keepers is proud to announce the release of a new training video to educate visitors and locals on how to Clean, Drain, and Dry their gear to prevent the spread of the invasive New Zealand mudsnail, and other aquatic invasive species (AIS) in Lake Tahoe. This video is part of Tahoe Keepers’ ongoing efforts to preserve the waters of Lake Tahoe and other pristine waterbodies in the basin, including Fallen Leaf Lake, Echo Lakes, and Spooner Lake.
“We are excited to launch this new training video, which provides essential information in both Spanish and English on how to protect Lake Tahoe and its surrounding waterbodies from aquatic invaders. By following the Clean, Drain, Dry principles, every recreator can play a part in preserving the natural beauty and ecological health of these lakes for future generations,” said Dennis Zabaglo, aquatic invasive species program manager at the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA).
In 2011, TRPA and the Tahoe Resource Conservation District started the Tahoe Keepers program. Since then, over 7000 beach goers have participated in the training, but with around 15 million visitors to Lake Tahoe per year, Tahoe Keepers hope to multiply their community this summer. Every individual who interacts with Tahoe regional waterbodies, including anglers, paddlers, rafters, kayakers, and sandcastle builders, have a duty to protect the lake. Luckily, this free program is easier and more stunning than ever. Participants watch the video, take a 10-question quiz, and are awarded a certificate marking their dedication to protecting Lake Tahoe. You can identify Tahoe Keepers by the free decal they earn from this quick and easy training.
Tahoe Keepers earn a free decal to place on their gear. Credit: Clean Up the Lake
The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency worked with Clean Up the Lake to produce the new and improved bilingual training video. The five-minute video explains the potential impacts of aquatic invasive species, step-by-step instructions on how to properly clean, drain, and dry all types of gear, and other good tips for getting on the water. Thanks to funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the entire Tahoe Keepers process is now available in both English and Spanish.
“After the discovery of the New Zealand mudsnail last fall, we knew we needed to upgrade our Tahoe Keepers video. Whether you’ve been a Tahoe Keeper for years, or are new to the program, we encourage everyone to learn how to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species through this training,” said Zabaglo.
Before you paddle out this Fourth of July, watch the new video and become a Tahoe Keeper at TahoeKeepers.org.
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The Lake Tahoe Aquatic Invasive Species Program is implemented by 40 public and private partner organizations, including federal, state, and local jurisdictions, research partners, public utility districts, and private marinas. The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency and the Tahoe Resource Conservation District lead the program in collaboration with the public and private partners. The program’s mission is to prevent, detect, and control aquatic invasive species in the Region so that future generations can enjoy Lake Tahoe. For additional information, contact Jeff Cowen, TRPA Public Information Officer, at 775-589-5278
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