For nearly 70 years, the League to Save Lake Tahoe has engaged with individuals, business leaders, elected officials, and visitors to educate them about what makes Lake Tahoe one of the most outstanding natural resources in the United States—and worth protecting. This work has spanned decades and endured over changing times. But the mission is consistent, and our commitment is steady: to protect and conserve. That consistency is made possible by our community—donors, volunteers, and advocates who share our dedication to Tahoe. 

Most recently, I spent a week in Washington, D.C. with my colleague Noa and Team Tahoe, an advocacy group made up of Lake Tahoe leaders, the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) and partner agency staff, scientists, and representatives of the public, non-profit, and business communities. This coalition met with our federal representatives to highlight Tahoe’s environmental challenges and the solutions we’re advancing locally in the Basin, and to make sure we are top of mind when they are making funding decisions.  

But this endeavor wasn’t like past trips. Far-reaching, rapid-fire changes to federal institutions and staffing have put Team Tahoe’s long-term plans for protecting the Basin on shaky ground. Now, more than ever, trusted voices like the League’s are essential to maintain momentum and ensure Tahoe remains a national priority. 

A pressing example is the result of the Continuing Resolution that was passed by Congress on March 14. Some $23 million appropriated back in 2024 under the Lake Tahoe Restoration Act (LTRA) has been stripped of the specific direction for where those funds must be spent—on projects to restore and improve Tahoe’s environment.  

Since 2000, versions of the LTRA have delivered federal support for forest health, fire infrastructure, watershed restoration, water quality, and control of aquatic invasive species. These are the initiatives that protect the clear water swimmers love, keep wildfire smoke out of the air we breathe, and preserve the Lake’s iconic shoreline. With the rising threat of climate change, we need access more than ever to programs that help mitigate fire risk, invest in restoring our meadows, rivers, and streams, and keep the region healthy and safe for all. 

Now the League, along with Team Tahoe and our allies in Congress, must get back to work to make sure those funds still get to our region and continue to support our critical programs.

We are optimistic that the decades of consistent advocacy from the League and our partners will remind lawmakers on both sides of the aisle of their commitment to Tahoe. They know that funding Tahoe’s Environmental Improvement Program is a good investment—not only for ecosystems and recreation, but for climate resilience, clean water, and public health.  

Even in these uncertain times, the League remains unshaken. We’ve spoken up for Tahoe through 33 Congresses and 13 presidential administrations with the same bedrock message. Today, we’re still leveraging our long-standing relationships and connections to make sure Tahoe remains funded and protected. This work doesn’t happen overnight, and it doesn’t happen without you. Your support makes our advocacy possible. 

We have an incredible story to tell. The story of Lake Tahoe. An environmental mecca. A home and escape for families and working people from all backgrounds. A lake that is recognized all over the world. And one that’s increasingly at risk from the pressures of pollution, climate change, and wildfire. This work continues because of people like you. Donate now or sign up to get involved.  

Together with our legislative champions, partners, and Tahoe enthusiasts like you, we will keep it blue.