Aquatic Invasive Weed Control and Costs
The developer of the Tahoe Keys, and subsequently the Tahoe Keys Property Owners Association (TKPOA), have been working to control aquatic weeds in the lagoons since the 1970s. Seasonal harvesting has been the main weed control practice since the mid-1980s, removing more than 10,000 cubic yards annually at a cost up to $400,000 per year.
Beginning in 2001, TKPOA increased their efforts to control the aquatic weeds by:
- Researching control methods
- Experimenting with bottom barriers
- Collaborating with TRPA and the Tahoe Resource Conservation District
- Consulting with the Lahontan Regional Water Quality Control Board, Lake Tahoe Aquatic Invasive Species Coordinating Committee and others
- Conducting extensive scientific monitoring that has resulted in more than 20 scientific reports dating back to 2004
TKPOA has spent millions to date on AIS and water quality issues, and anticipates spending millions more before a long term Integrated Management Plan can be approved. Tahoe Keys property owners are feeling the heavy burden of this onerous issue.