Lake Tahoe, Nev./Calif. – The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) Governing Board approved a $10,000 penalty at its July 24 meeting to a jet boat operator who entered the Upper Truckee River Marsh earlier this year. TRPA regulations prohibit operating motorized watercraft in tributaries of Lake Tahoe and speeding within 600 feet of shore to protect public safety, water quality, habitat, and recreation, the agency said today.
In April 2024, TRPA staff received complaints and video documentation of a motorized watercraft operating in excess of 5 mph in the sensitive Upper Truckee River Marsh on the South Shore of Lake Tahoe. Agency compliance staff identified and contacted the boater, who has accepted responsibility for the incident and has agreed to a settlement where he will pay a penalty of $10,000.
“Lake Tahoe’s shoreline and tributaries are sensitive areas that are essential to the ecosystem and define what Tahoe means to many people,” TRPA General Counsel John Marshall said. “We are grateful for the cooperation of the boater and the support of the Governing Board in approving the resolution. The agency hopes this settlement improves Lake Tahoe’s protection and helps others take part in that.”
All monetary penalties received are reserved for research studies and special projects in the region.