April 21, 2010

Washington D.C. – Nevada Senators Harry Reid and John Ensign today hailed the passage of the Lake Tahoe Restoration Act of 2010 (LTRA) out of the Senate Energy and Public Works Committee. The bill aims to restore and protect the ecological integrity of Lake Tahoe and the Tahoe Basin.  Reid and Ensign are sponsoring the bill, which will protect Lake Tahoe’s exceptional natural resources and ensure that the area remains a premiere tourist destination.  

“The unparalleled natural beauty found at Lake Tahoe is a major source of pride for Nevada, and something we must protect for future generations,” said Reid.  “The enactment of the Lake Tahoe Restoration Act furthers our commitment to protecting this unique ecosystem and solidifies Lake Tahoe’s place among the world’s top destinations, boosting both our economy and our environment.”

“Lake Tahoe is a truly breathtaking jewel in Nevada,” said Ensign.  “It has been enjoyed for generations by Nevadans, Americans, and people from across the world who descend upon its beaches to enjoy the cool, clear waters.  Unfortunately, its famous clarity is being threatened by invasive species and wild fires, which is why reauthorizing the Lake Tahoe Restoration Act is so important.  Our legislation will help to protect the beauty of Lake Tahoe for many years to come.”

The LTRA builds on successful restoration work already happening in the Tahoe basin by authorizing $415 million over eight years to improve water clarity, reduce the threat of wildfire, and restore the natural landscape.  The bill specifically funds high priority projects focused on aquatic invasive species prevention, storm water management, watershed restoration, Lahontan Cutthroat trout reintroduction, and hazardous fuels reduction.  It will also allow for increased scientific study of long-term trends in the Tahoe Basin to help us better understand how to manage this precious resource.  Supporters of this bill include a broad coalition of businesses, local agencies, and recreation and conservation organizations around Lake Tahoe.

Lake Tahoe is beautiful, but it is also an important part of Nevada’s and California’s economies.  According to a study published in 2008, more than 23,000 people living in the Lake Tahoe region are employed by the tourism industry there and earn more than $1.8 billion in income from tourism and tourism-supported jobs.

# # #