Independent Environmental Analysis
TKPOA submitted the Tahoe Keys Lagoons Aquatic Weed Control Methods Test Application, triggering the need for an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) required by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and Lahontan Regional Water Quality Control Board (Lahontan Water Board), and an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) required by the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA).
The Control Methods Test application proposes the use of targeted herbicides as one of the control methods to test in combination with other methods, including Ultraviolet Light tests, to reduce and control the abundant growth of non-native and nuisance aquatic weeds that are compromising the water quality and degrading the beneficial uses of the Tahoe Keys lagoons, as well as threatening the future ecosystem and water quality of Lake Tahoe.
The environmental analysis will determine if the use of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) approved herbicides can meet the strict environmental standards of Lake Tahoe’s classification as a Tier Three, Outstanding National Resource Water.
The environmental analysis team, TRC Solutions, has assembled a team of independent experts who will be collecting and analyzing data to understand the impacts of the proposed tests, along with alternate management options during 2019 – 2020.
Environmental Analysis Timeline
January 1, 2021 Update: The Tahoe Keys Control Methods Test timeline has been modified to provide additional time for environmental analysis and review.
Lahontan Regional Water Quality Control Board has identified additional information needs for the draft NPDES permit and will work in the coming months to release the Antidegradation Analysis and draft NPDES permit in conjunction with the Final Environmental Impact Statement. There will be a corresponding public comment period. The collaborating parties will work with TKPOA to determine if there is an opportunity for expanded testing of non-chemical methods this upcoming season. The lead agencies anticipate considering for approval a final test project decision later in 2021.
This project remains a top priority for all partners and stakeholders.
Management Timeline
