TAHOE CITY, Calif. – The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) met at the Granlibakken to hear informational items on regional plan development tracking, reporting and accountability permit tracking and the regional transportation projects. Multiple public comments and the executive director status report touched on glyphosate, a controversial herbicide that TRPA previously commented on.
Regional plan development tracking
Ken Kasman, reporting and accountability department director, spoke on the regional plan growth management system, which limits the total amount of development allowed in the region. In 2025, the Tahoe Region experienced the largest increase in residential units since the update to the regional plan in 2012, driven by affordable housing at the Lake Tahoe Community College and Sugar Pine Village.
Roughly 80% of the residential allocations have been assigned to development as 2025, with 63% residential bonus units, 49% tourist bonus units and 51% commercial floor area. Throughout the region, the city of South Lake Tahoe leads housing with nearly 15,500 residential units. Kasman noted there are restrictions on the Nevada side with restrictions on vacant lots.
Kasman also spoke positively of the transferral program, saying it helped incentivize development in town centers through removing aging infrastructure that may not have best management practices. One example of this is the transferral of Motel 6 allocations to other developments.
Several board members raised questions about the usage of residential allocations, and Cody Bass suggested some sort of separation be made around tourist accommodation units and residential units of use, especially in terms of tracking data for visitors using vacation home rentals.
The meeting was halted for a medical emergency. As the item was informational, like others on the agenda, the board simply received the presentation and planned for potential further discussion during the strategic retreat tomorrow.
Reporting and accountability permit tracking update
Jeanne McNamara presented on permit tracking and discussing some recommendations for the program. According to her, TRPA issues hundreds of permits each year and has since the agency’s inception in the 70s. After efforts to digitize their records, TRPA also chose Beacon as a tracking system, which was developed by Environmental Science Associates.
Instead of emailing individual staff, people may now email the PermitReporting@trpa.gov email to submit required documents. In the future, they intend to expand tracking to other types of projects such as rental concessionaires or settlement agreements.
The board briefly discussed some items such as what would appear on the tracking system.
Transportation projects
Nick Haven, who is with the transportation department of TRPA, gave an overview of transportation projects throughout the region. He touched on the Tahoe City Pedestrian Safety projects, the parking management throughout North Tahoe and the East Shore, the park and ride vanpool programs and the Spooner Mobility Hub.
Haven made note that on the east shore, TRPA and its partners were looking to expand parking so as to reduce roadside parking, especially around Chimney Beach and Secret Cove. The Tahoe Transportation District (TTD) also added more crossings across the road to access the lake on the east shore.
On the south and west shores, Haven highlighted the US-50 Roadway Rehabilitation and Safety through the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) and addressing parking and access at Zephyr Cove. He also touched on the Kahle Drive Complete Streets project, which will be adding sidewalks and safer roads through the Nevada Tahoe Conservation District, connecting with Stateline Avenue Complete Streets Project through the city of South Lake Tahoe.
There are also improvements on US-50 through Caltrans (including the new lights and crossings, as well as the painted bike lanes), pedestrian improvements on Pioneer Trail and the Tahoe Greenway Trail, as well as transit enhancements through the TTD and Lake Link.
Lastly, the Emerald Bay Shuttle Program is entering its second year after success last year, expanding its services.
More information can be seen at https://transportation.laketahoeinfo.org. Haven said, “It’s kind of the theme of the day: transparency and access to information.” Board members praised that transparency for both TRPA and the public.
Executive director report
Executive director Julie Regan highlighted the Fanny Bridge ribbon cutting event, saying “Many partners are doing a series of projects that will revitalize the north shore area, provide better evacuation routes out of the west shore and improve the environment.”
To address the Caldor Fire Restoration Project, Regan stated, “A huge debt of gratitude is owed to the Forest Service and our firefighters. I also want to thank the community and partner agencies for bringing forward the concerns about the restoration project, particularly the potential use of herbicides within our watershed. We take these concerns seriously.”
Regan said that the sent a formal letter to the Forest Service requesting coordination with TRPA, the Lahontan Regional Quality Control Board and others to protect the lake’s water quality. “The purpose of our letter was to request a meeting before any site-specific implementation, including herbicide use, in the area would occur.”
She went on to say that as far as drinking water quality sampling, they had reached out to water purveyors and the South Tahoe Public Utility District said they did not detect glyphosate in the well protection program historically.
In collaboration with the Lahontan Water Board and Nevada Division of Environmental Protection, they will be taking water samples to test for glyphosate downstream of the Caldor burn area.
Regan noted that this year would mark the 30th Lake Tahoe Summit, and that next month they will be addressing workplan and budget, the Tahoe Keys Marina project, legal appeals and the monopine cell tower ordinance.
During public comment, many spoke up about their concerns around glyphosate, including the group Protect Tahoe, which advocated for a ban on synthetic herbicides. They believe that Tahoe could serve as a model for the rest of the country.
Others pointed out that in the Tahoe Keys, courts sided with the legal challenges to herbicide usage for managing aquatic invasive species. Several people called for further action by the TRPA, including calls for class action or civil lawsuits against the U.S. Forest Service, requests to the California Environmental Protection Agency and intervention at the federal level. Sara Rich, who started a change.org petition opposing the use of glyphosate, garnered over 15,000 signatures and urged for change.
Irate commenters said that they had been exposed without their knowledge to these chemicals and said the TRPA should have been the ones to bring this to the public’s attention, not the other way around. Others said they would consider moving to protect their health and the health of their families, lamenting that the environment and animals would suffer the consequences of the use of the chemical.
Cindy Gustafson urged people to reach out to congressional and federal representatives, who would have jurisdiction over the actions of the U.S. Forest Service.
Regan again emphasized the importance of the issue. “We do take these concerns seriously and we are actively engaging with the Forest Service beyond just a letter. We’ve already been in contact with their leadership, with the regional office and this will be going all the way to Washington D.C.”
2026 Music at Ski Beach – 4-7 p.m., Description Fridays at Ski Beach in Incline Village – IVGID passes required For more information, visit https://business.ivcba.org/event-calendar/Details/2026-music-at-ski-beach-1745155?sourceTypeId=Hub.
Arty the Party at Harrah’s Lake Tahoe – 9 p.m.-12 a.m., Harrah’s Center Stage, 15 Hwy 50. 9:00 PM, Friday and Saturday Nights. You can Party with Arty the Party at Harrah’s. It’s the best disco, dance, R&B, and soul party in Lake Tahoe! “Arty the Party” as he’s affectionately called has been playing in Lake Tahoe for several years and now calls Casino Center Stage at Harrah’s his home. For more information, visit https://visitlaketahoe.com/event/arty-the-party-at-harrahs-lake-tahoe/2026-05-29/.
Cliff Porter’s Full Blast – 5-9 p.m., AleWorx at the Y, 2050 Lake Tahoe Blvd. JamCruise favorite Cliff Porter makes his full band debut (Funk/R&B/Neo-soul) For more information, visit https://laketahoealeworx.com/event/cliff-porters-full-blast/.
Dueling Pianos at Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe – 8:30-10:30 p.m., Harveys Casino Resort, 18 Hwy 50. Join us at the Mountain Bar located on Caesars Republic casino floor for a free show you don’t want to miss. Put your favorite song request in, grab a drink at the Mountain Bar and enjoy the fun! Playing Friday and Saturday at 8:30 PM. For more information, visit https://visitlaketahoe.com/event/dueling-pianos-at-caesars-republic-lake-tahoe/2026-05-29/.
Heavenly Village Summer Concert Series – 5:45-9:15 p.m., Heavenly Village, 1001 Heavenly Village Way. The Shops at Heavenly Village will host free outdoor concerts every Friday and Saturday evening Memorial Day Weekend through September 16, 2026, from 5:45 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. The free shows in this series are held on the stage between the Fire and Ice and Gunbarrel Tavern restaurants from 5:45 p.m to 9:15 p.m. For more information, visit https://visitlaketahoe.com/event/heavenly-village-summer-concert-series/2026-05-29/.
Saturday, May 30
3rd Annual Collectors Appreciation Party ~ May 30th – 12-5 p.m., Marcus Ashley Gallery, 4000 Lake Tahoe Blvd, Ste 23. Join us in appreciating our amazing collectors and locals with local and new art, local jewelry, food and craft cocktails! For more information, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/3rd-annual-collectors-appreciation-party-may-30th-tickets-1985543310491 or call (530) 544-4278.
AcustaGruve – 8 a.m.-5 p.m., The Grove, 1900 Jameson Beach Rd. Join us just outside the Grove Restaurant for a performance by AcustaGruve. For more information, visit https://camprichardsonresort.com/event/acustagruve-6/.
Boogie Zoo (Covers/Classic Rock/Phish/etc) – 5-9 p.m., AleWorx at the Y, 2050 Lake Tahoe Blvd. feat. guest Dan Weiss on percussion (Monophonics/the Sextones) For more information, visit https://laketahoealeworx.com/event/boogie-zoo-covers-classic-rock-phish-etc/.
Cosmic Roots Trio – 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., AleWorx at the Y, 2050 Lake Tahoe Blvd. A stripped down brunch set of Funk/RnB/Instrumental + more For more information, visit https://laketahoealeworx.com/event/cosmic-roots-trio/.
Ginger Molasses – 8:30 p.m.-12 a.m., Crystal Bay Casino, 14 Highway 28. Ginger Molasses captivates audiences with an intoxicating and energetic blend of nostalgia and innovation. Channeling the golden era of the 1960s and 70s, the band delivers an experience that transcends generations. Frontwoman Tawnee Kendall’s high-octane, high-energy performances, outrageous costumes, and soul-stirring vocals captivate audiences from the first note. Backed by a collective of seasoned musicians, Ginger Molasses boasts a caliber of songwriting and musicianship that is unparalleled. Every performance resonates with precision and passion, reflecting the culmination of years of dedication and expertise. Ginger Molasses is an undeniably delicious sensory experience that infects every audience member with the unadulterated need to dance, sing, and have a good time. For more information, visit https://www.bandsintown.com/e/107974693?app_id=pkvts0on0m&came_from=287&utm_medium=api&utm_source=partner_api&utm_campaign=event or call (775) 833-6333.
MIMOSA FEST w/ ‘Time Splitters’ – 12 p.m., 14 NV-28. Mimosa Fest is a daytime dance party focusing on our favorite cocktail, the almighty mimosa. The Crown Room will come to life with an incredible selection of Mimosas and brunch snacks. The soundtrack will be provided by Time Splitters. Celebrate spring with mimosa fest in the Crown Room! 5/30/26 12-4PM Tickets–>https://tixr.com/e/187821 For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/985303947296095/.
Street FEAST – Bowl Incline – 6-9 p.m., Description Collab of the Year – Bowl Incline X Parlay Brewing Company For more information, visit https://business.ivcba.org/event-calendar/Details/street-feast-bowl-incline-1698307?sourceTypeId=Hub or call (775) 831-1900.
Sunday, May 31
Boca Do Rio (Duo) – 5-9 p.m., AleWorx at the Y, 2050 Lake Tahoe Blvd. Legendary Brazilian duo playing Samba, Choro, + more! For more information, visit https://laketahoealeworx.com/event/boca-do-rio-duo/.
Soundbath + Community Acupuncture – 12-1 p.m., elevate wellness lounge, 2030 Lake Tahoe Blvd. Soundbath + Community Acupuncture has been rescheduled to May 31. Acupuncture with a sound bath is a holistic therapy that combines the ancient practice of acupuncture with therapeutic sounds to promote deep relaxation, stress reduction, and overall well-being. It’s a synergistic approach where the acupuncture needles can regulate the body’s energy flow (Qi), while the sound vibrations from singing bowls, gongs, and chimes resonate with the body, further harmonizing and balancing energy. For more information, visit https://www.elevate-wellness.com/events/2026/4/1/soundbath-community-acupuncture or call (530)541-9355.
Tuesday, June 2
South Lake Tahoe Clothing Swap – 3-5 p.m., 2048 Dunlap Drive, #4. It’s time to refresh your wardrobe by exchanging your gently used clothes for something you will love. All shapes and sizes are welcome! For more information, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/south-lake-tahoe-clothing-swap-tickets-1987572806769.
Wednesday, June 3
15th Annual Bike Path Cleanup – 5-8:30 p.m., Click here for meeting locations. Description Join us as we celebrate the kickoff of Tahoe Bike Month with a community Bike Path Cleanup event on June 3rd from 5 pm to 7:30 pm. Kickoff Tahoe Bike Month by cleaning up our community bike paths! Oftentimes these paths can be littered, and the cleanup gets these paths ready for a great summer biking season. Volunteers can meet at one of the locations through South Tahoe to pick up litter from the areas around our bike paths. Following the cleanup, we will all meet for post event fun, food, and drinks at The Hangar. Come and join us on your bikes, scooters, skateboards, or walk to the event! For more information and to register for this cleanup, please visit keeptahoeblue.org/events-activities-lessons/bike-path-cleanup-june-3-2026/. For more information, visit https://business.tahoechamber.org/events/details/15th-annual-bike-path-cleanup-26127.
Brother Yusef – 7:30 p.m., Valhalla Boathouse Theatre. Brother Yusef: Fattback Blues-Raw, Gritty, Unstoppable Brother Yusef is a self-taught powerhouse-a master solo guitarist and a vocalist whose passion cuts deep. For over thirty years, he has forged a sound all his own: Fattback Blues, a rich fusion of Delta, Chicago, and Texas blues, driven by the relentless stomp of Louisiana rhythm. His music is raw, real, and as deep as the genre itself. Armed with just a guitar, his right-hand thumb hammers out a percussive bass groove while his fingers carve out rhythm and lead, creating the drive of a full band. Blending the fire of traditional fingerpicking and slide guitar with the punch of urban blues, rock, and funk, he pours every ounce of himself into every note, turning the blues into something both primal and electrifying. Born in Bakersfield, California, in 1963, Brother Yusef moved with his family to South Central Los Angeles at age four before settling in Altadena, California, in 1969. His first connection to music came through the thunderous energy of Holiness Church services in Bakersfield. The pounding drums, wailing electric guitars, and soul-shaking voices both terrified and thrilled him. Church wasn’t a quiet place of worship-it was alive, it was raw, it was a celebration. That spirit of deep, uninhibited expression would later find its way into his music. Another defining moment came when he saw the Jackson 5 perform on television. But his focus wasn’t on Michael-it was on Tito and Jermaine, standing cool, commanding their guitars. Something clicked. That was it. The seed was planted. At 19, he picked up a guitar and never looked back. He immersed himself in blues, jazz, reggae, funk, and rock, searching for his voice. But the blues wasn’t just a genre-it was home. He came to see it the way his ancestors did: as survival, healing, and freedom. From backwoods juke joints to the fiery emotion of a sanctified church, from festival stages to street corners, Brother Yusef delivers a blues experience that is felt as much as it is heard. His deep-pocket fingerpicking and searing slide guitar churn out a sound that’s as gritty as a Mississippi Delta back road and as fresh as a city street performance. A true one-man band, he stomps, chugs, and testifies with every note, pouring heart and fire into his music. If you can stand still while he plays, check your pulse-because this blues is alive, and it refuses to be ignored. For more information, visit https://valhallatahoe.showare.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=258.
North Tahoe Community Choir Broadway Concert – 7-9 p.m., St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church, 341 Village Blvd.. North Tahoe Community Choir, directed by Donna Roberts Axton, presents our annual Broadway Concert, featuring music from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Mary Poppins, in honor of Dick Van Dyke’s 100th birthday, and Jekyll & Hyde. Wednesday June 3rd at 7:00 PM and Saturday June 6th at 2:00 PM at St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church, 341 Village Blvd., Incline Village. Advance tickets are $20 and are available at Potlatch, Handmade at the Lake, or from choir members. Tickets are $25 at the door. Children under 12 are Free. or call 775-741-5084.
INCLINE VILLAGE, Nev. – Tahoe Family Solutions, the family resource center in Incline Village, has been providing therapy and mental health services at no cost to those in need. Their recent push for bilingual and culturally knowledgeable therapists is a critical step in providing care. Executive director Jody Wright and counselor Katie O’Hara spoke with the Tribune for Mental Health Awareness Month on the needs and impact that mental health services can bring to a community.
“The Tahoe Basin is a unique space, because even with a metropolitan area down the hill, it’s still considered a rural place,” said O’Hara. “There are difficulties with finding adequate services.” Incline Village has 11 therapists, with two that take insurance—the rest of them are private practices.
In 2024, Tahoe Family Solutions served 153 clients through counseling and 31 through psychiatry services. That psychiatric support is provided by Dr. Sukhi Johal, a board certified psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience and certifications in psychiatry, child and adolescent psychiatry and forensic psychiatry. Providing coordinated care in a rural, mountain community is particularly extraordinary.
“As far as mental health services up here, for many people, we are it,” said Wright. “We’ve been providing therapy for 30 years.” Wright made a major push when she became executive director a little over a year ago—she saw how large the Hispanic and Latino communities were in Tahoe and how they were receiving very little help.
Wright also saw how increased scrutiny around immigration has led to higher stressors for these communities, which make up much of the workforce in Tahoe. “This is a population in crisis and I knew we needed to step in as fast as we could.”
Now, Tahoe Family Solutions has four therapists, three of whom are bilingual and bicultural. O’Hara said, “They bring a lot of really valuable assets, especially with that cultural understanding. I think a lot of stigma exists in the Hispanic community in talking to people outside of the family about problems, so having someone who understands that background goes a long way to making people feel safe.”
These bilingual therapists are passionate about providing healthcare—they commute from Reno, where they also work. Washoe County’s latest community health assessment showed yet again that access to mental health care is a major need.
Mental health ties in with other kinds of stressors, especially financial ones. “It’s hard to do deep therapy work if you’re sleeping in your car. That’s why we provide assistance with things like finding housing, making car payments and paying rent on time.”
Wright recognizes that the waiting list they’ve accumulated now shows both that there’s a need and that the need still must be met. The waiting list is primarily Hispanic, because of the lack of bilingual therapy options otherwise. Wright says she’s received calls from around the state in retaining bilingual therapists.
Despite the gap in options for mental health services in Nevada, Wright says they get patients from Truckee, both the north and south shore, Carson City and even Auburn.
O’Hara noted that waitlists can also pile up due to the lack of therapists. “New therapists especially are overworked and underpaid, which can contribute to burnout.” But her experience with Tahoe Family Solutions has been different. “They offer competitive pay, I don’t feel burnt out and I feel valued.”
O’Hara, who graduated from Sierra Nevada College, said that Incline Village has always held a special place in her heart, and she’s passionate about inclusive, accessible care for everyone in the community. She will soon be serving as the clinical manager for Tahoe Family Solutions.
Funding is critical in times like these. Wright said, “People are really recognizing that this is a crisis. We need to upgrade our tech, we need more staff time and a bigger space to address it.” Tahoe Family Solutions partners with Incline Community Hospital, Tahoe Forest Health System and Renown. They’ve also sought grant funding from the Rural Health Transformation Grant, the Katz Amsterdam Foundation and Redfield Foundation.
“Because of the limited resources, we have to help each other. There’s no one right answer, it’s a jigsaw puzzle to put together, sharing costs and resources where we can,” said Wright.
But the transformation that they see happening in the community makes it all worth it. “It’s so incredibly rewarding to be able to offer these services at no cost, to see where people start and how they make the changes they want to see,” said O’Hara. “The bilingual support we offer has been life-changing. And it feels good to do good work with good people.”
Wright has also pushed for more education in the community, especially around suicide rates (which are higher in both rural communities and resort towns) and teen mental health. In September, Tahoe Family Solutions will be holding a suicide prevention seminar in both English and Spanish.
Tahoe Family Solutions offers healthcare without the need for insurance—in fact, they don’t accept insurance, which makes it easier to access for those in need. Their mental health fundraiser and one of Incline’s most popular events, Shabby Chic, will help them continue to provide care. Wright previewed that the event will feature a speaker on mental health and aging.
Wright said, “We want to be woven in to the spectrum of services so that people know we’re here to help.”
To learn more about Tahoe Family Solutions programs, visit their website at https://tahoefamily.org/, where you can also donate to support their work.
To try and decide each week where and what to eat around the basin can be a challenge – there are so many amazing choices. In this feature we’ll dive into dishes that will surely satisfy those hunger pangs and leave you wondering where to go next.
If you know anything about mole it’s probably something like you can write a novel in the amount of time it takes you to prepare it right … that, or it has chocolate in it. While both are fairly accurate, when you get one that’s done right, it is a flavor that is unmistakably amazing. Such is the case with this week’s feature.
Elements Eatery’s Short Rib MoleRob Galloway / Tahoe Daily Tribune
Mole tends to have as many ingredients as an NFL team has players so I’m not going to get into all the details. But what you get here is a deep and rich sauce that peels flavors back like an onion with a little heat and sweetness vying for control of your tastebuds. It’s draped over a juicy and tender beef short rib topped with pickled onions, sesame and micro greens while served alongside their classic rice, plantains and tortillas.
The mole is a flavor volcano bursting with subtle nuance around every corner. Grabbing the sauce along with shreds of the short rib and the pickled onion inside a tortilla makes for an amazing street taco experience. Doing that same thing but stacking in rice and plantains ratchets the experience up another couple notches. And if you aren’t one for jamming everything into a tortilla, it’s all just as good on its own or all mixed together for right hook punch on your palette.
Any time I have something that I can turn into a taco, I’m in. When it sits down right in front of me with all the bells and whistles like this dish, I’m doubling down and crafting as many different flavor combinations as I can because when everything is this tasty, no bite can go wrong.
Elements Eatery and Bar is located at 3310 Lake Tahoe Blvd in South Lake Tahoe. For more information and menu items you can reach them online at elementstahoe.com or by phone at 530-650-9004.
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – On Saturday, the Al Tahoe Firewise community held a community barbecue and heard from guest speakers on the importance of ladder fuels reduction and wildfire insurance rates, which continue to climb drastically for residents.
Firewise is a recognition program that educates owners and residents about what they can do to reduce fire risks on their property, including programs like defensible space and home hardening. Communities can be nationally recognized by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and can also learn more through the Tahoe Resource Conservation District’s Living With Fire site.
The Al Tahoe Firewise community is the largest in the Tahoe Basin and was the first to be nationally recognized as a Firewise community in South Lake Tahoe. The group formed in part due to concerns over evacuation issues seen in the Camp Fire, and has formed partnerships with the Tahoe Resource Conservation District, South Lake Tahoe Fire Rescue (SLTFR) and Lake Valley Fire Protection District.
Dianne Rees, core team leader, introduced the guest speakers: Mayor Cody Bass, SLTFR Fire Chief Jim Drennan, State Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil’s district representative Todd White, Congressional candidate Christine Bish and California FAIR Plan Liaison Phillip Irwin. She also emphasized the importance of ladder fuel reduction and its effectiveness in reducing impacts of the Caldor Fire.
Bass commended the work of Al Tahoe Firewise, saying, “It’s this effort there that will really keep us safe.”
Drennan, who has been with SLTFR for over 20 years, was a supporter of the creation of the Al Tahoe Firewise community. “You are leading the charge for the entire basin,” he said to the attendees.
South Lake Tahoe’s ordinances around defensible state were the most stringent in the state when they were first introduced, and Drennan praised the efforts of the city to reduce risk. He also spoke on the importance of the formation of the South Shore Fuels Division, a collaboration between SLTFR and Lake Valley Fire in managing fuels from Stateline to Echo Summit.
“We can throw a lot of money and resources as this, but what’s happening on the ground is important. That’s where the work happens,” said Drennan. He urged people to pay attention to ladder fuels like low tree branches, manzanita and whitethorn—which, if left untreated, could cause fires to climb up into the canopy.
Drennan also reassured people that they were taking a multi-pronged approach to fire mitigation, including looking at home hardening and evacuation routes.
On the legislative side, White spoke on the bills currently in the legislature regarding wildfires. There are four bills that Alvarado-Gil is involved with: SB 284, which could provide tax credit for home hardening; SB 1118, which would provide tax credit for certain purchases of backup electricity generators or solar batteries in wildfire zones; SB 1162 which would prioritize the state efforts to reduce wildfire hazards in the wildland-urban interface; and SB 904, which would look at disaster recovery and wildfire rebuilding in a declared state of emergency.
White also urged people to advocate for their community to their representatives. “Call your officials. You have to persist and talk to your representatives… because the insurance market needs to open up.”
Bish, who is currently running for a seat in CA-03, highlighted her plan, “The Wildfire Act”, which she hopes would produce a federal framework to address at-risk communities and help to lower insurance rates. “The California FAIR Plan was supposed to be the last option, not the only one.”
Bish told the Tribune that she had copyrighted her plan, which she believes would provide a way to fund fire protection, new equipment and help with home hardening. She also addressed the concerns around Liberty Utilities and advocated for the reactivation of Rancho Seco, a decommissioned nuclear power plant in Herald, Calif.
Lastly, Irwin spoke on the California FAIR Plan, after commending Al Tahoe Firewise. “This organization here is a super Firewise community, the best I’ve seen.”
Irwin emphasized that the FAIR Plan is not for profit and not paid for by taxpayer dollars. The FAIR Plan is funded primarily through policies sold to customers, and insurers who contribute to the FAIR Plan may also pass their costs to their customers. On their fact sheet, it says, “Consumers not covered by the FAIR Plan, including those in low-income communities, would essentially subsidize FAIR Plan coverage in high-fire risk areas, including vacation homes.”
Rees returned to close out the speeches and to remind residents that they could be eligible for the El Dorado County qualification for the Safer From Wildfires discount. They’re also eligible for the Firewise discounts from several insurance companies including California Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm and American Modern Home Insurance Company.
She also told attendees to contact them for help with clearing adjacent California Tahoe Conservancy lots if needed.
“We become a family focused on helping others as we help ourselves,” said Rees. To learn more about Al Tahoe Firewise, you can visit https://altahoefirewise.com/.
The Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular will take place on Friday, May 29Provided/Laser Spectacular
STATELINE, Nev. – Paramount’s Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular is back for another year. On Friday, May 29, the mesmerizing show will be held at Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, playing smash hits from Pink Floyd while vibrant beams and lasers slice through the dark.
“It’s a really cool visual experience,” said Brian Chandler, Entertainment Senior Manager at Harrah’s and Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe.
Although Pink Floyd’s music is captivating within itself, the show adds entertainment like you’ve never seen before, including special effects, intelligent lighting, rich colors and surround sound.
“The sound is incredible,” said Chandler. “It sounds like a concert, like the band is there. So it’s really got that full intensity.”
Songs will play from the iconic “The Dark Side of the Moon” album, along with some of Pink Floyd’s greatest hits like “Wish You Were Here”, “Time”, and more.
Attendees will be given a pair of 3D glasses to enhance their visual experience. “Make sure you use the glasses they give you because it’s night and day,” Chandler said.
The family-friendly show is assigned seating and roughly 90 minutes long. Adults are sure to enjoy the experience just as much as their kids will.
The Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular starts at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, May 29 in Harrah’s South Shore Room. For tickets, visit https://www.caesars.com/lake-tahoe/shows.
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – On May 15, Ken Curtzwiler, who also goes by the moniker “Skibum” filed a petition for a harassment lawsuit and temporary restraining order against Mayor Cody Bass, which he received on May 26. Bass says, “I was truly shocked when I received the notice.”
Curtzwiler filed a temporary restraining order against Bass, which the court partially granted, requiring Bass to stay 100 yards away from Curtzwiler’s home, work and vehicle (though not granting the request to stay 25 yards away in any public space).
Bass and Curtzwiler have clashed publicly on social media in the past, but Curtzwiler says that he considered those interactions harassment after he posted police reports regarding incidents that Bass had at Lake Tahoe Aleworx.
Curtzwiler says that Bass replied to those posts saying that he “[belonged] in a cage” and that he “[belonged] to a gang that kills people.” Curtzwiler also alleged that Bass implied that Curtzwiler was involved with former mayor Tamara Wallace’s embezzlement.
Curtzwiler went on to say that Bass defamed him, causing him to lose contracts and business relations. He alleged that in December 2025 during a local memorial concert at McP’s Taphouse Grill that Bass shouted at him and said he intended to fight him. “Bass’ continued threats of ‘kicking my ass’ are alarming and demonstrate an imminent and ongoing credible threat of violence.'”
The exhibits included in the lawsuit include two police reports from incidents at Lake Tahoe Aleworx on June 22, 2025 and August 24, 2023, where Bass was involved in altercations with others. The incident on June 22 was with Bob Hoyopatubbi, security supervisor at Aleworx. These exhibits, along with a South Tahoe Now article on Bass’ arrest for possession of banned substances, were used to claim that Bass’ drug and alcohol use contributed to altercations under the influence.
“I have reviewed the restraining order and it’s full of many mistruths, I have never in anyway threatened Mr. Curtzwiler,” said Bass. He told the Tribune that about two years ago, he began to receive online harassment from Curtzwiler. “As most people have seen on social media it has been Mr. Curtzwiler that has attempted so many times to defame my character.”
Curtzwiler also alleged in the lawsuit that his wife moved to Idaho “and refused to return because of fear of Mr. Bass’ conduct.” Bass noted that Curtzwiler’s wife moved to Idaho prior to these incidents occurring.
While a temporary restraining order was filed, as is typical for harassment suits, Bass said he was confident a permanent restraining order would not be filed. Bass and Curtzwiler will have a hearing in court on June 17. The Tribune will provide updates on the case as it develops.
While researching this article, a social media post began circulating stating Bass was forced to leave Lucky Beaver on Saturday, May 23. The Tribune has not yet been able to verify the veracity of the claims. Bass denies the allegations.
WASHOE COUNTY, Nev. – The Incline High School boys golf team continued an undefeated streak at the NIAA 2A Golf State Championships on May 12 and 13, becoming state champions and adding a line to the school’s record books.
Defying windy conditions at the Toiyabe Golf Club, the Highlianders won the tournament 41 strokes ahead of North Tahoe High School for the state title.
“Our boys stayed strong,” head coach Cory Coombes said, “slowed down and played the wind well.”
On the first day of the tournament, the team scored 345. With their return on the second day, the Highlanders improved on their day-one performance, posting 343 to reach a tournament total of 688.
After placing 6th on day one with a score of 86, senior Lucas MacDonald honed his craft on day two to win the individual state championship with a score of 76. He was the only golfer in the tournament to score in the seventies, significantly contributing to the team’s win. MacDonald joined the golf team last year after playing baseball the prior season.
Senior Neils Day’s second-place finish on day one also helped secure the team’s championship title. Day has played all four years on the team and has shown significant growth throughout. In his first year, Day scored around the 120 mark and is now playing 70- to 80-stroke games.
History made
The Incline High School golf team recorded an undefeated season on the green. The Highlanders’ last undefeated season occurred 33 years ago in 1993.
Additionally, this championship marks the first team title in over a decade, with the last occurring in 2015, and the third state title in the school’s history.
Coach Coombes says the win is a result of his players’ hard work and dedication.
“Even when we aren’t having practice, the boys are down in Reno and Carson practicing,” Coombes says. “They make it pretty easy on me. Their passion for the game shines; they are on the course or at a practice facility in any free time they get.”
Another factor that has added to the team’s performance is a golf simulator at the school during golf season. Thanks to a community member’s help, the team has had access to the simulator for about three years.
Before the simulator, the team drove to Reno or Carson to practice due to the snow. The long drives would cut into practice time.
The simulator, which also provides feedback, now allows the boys to get significantly more swings in.
In reviewing standout players and key performances, Coach Coombes wanted to recognize every player on his competition team, “as each one of them has stepped up in a big way to help with the successful season.”
Senior Trent Racich helped the team secure the regional title by shooting an 80.
Junior Anthony Donahue has been on the competition team since his freshman year, helping the team build up to this win. He is the No. 2 golfer on the team and next year’s team captain.
Sophomore Nate Lager has also been on the competition team since freshman year and continues to show growth. “I can’t wait to see what he does in the next two years,” Coombes says.
Freshman Luke Donahue is already scoring 70s and 80s and has shown mental fortitude, something many young golfers struggle with, Coombes says, earning him a place in team leadership.
Coombes, who has coached the team for five years now, says the support from the parents and from both the competition team and the younger team has turned the players into championship golfers.
“I’m very blessed to be able to coach these boys.”
EL DORADO COUNTY, Calif. – Authorities are reminding the public that even as temperatures climb, there is still snow in high elevations after a run-in with snow led to a helicopter rescue of a man and his 18-month-old son last week.
The El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office reports that late afternoon on Thursday, May 21, the man was out mountain biking with his son in the Freel Peak area at elevations above 10,000 feet when he came across snow that completely covered the trail.
The report reveals that the man attempted to push through the snow to reach the dirt and quickly became exhausted.
His son began to show signs of extreme discomfort, causing the man to believe his son needed medical attention. The report also says the man was not prepared to be out after the sun went down.
The El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue responded with a helicopter and airlifted the man and child to the South Lake Tahoe Airport, where South Lake Tahoe Fire Rescue treated them.
EL DORADO COUNTY, Calif. – The El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office is conducting a search and rescue in Desolation Wilderness for an overdue hiker.
60-year-old Jason Coughran was last heard from at 4 p.m. on Monday, May 25. He is described as being 150 pounds and 6’02” with brown hair, hazel eyes, and an athletic build.
He is believed to be wearing khaki shorts, but his clothing is unknown for certain.
Coughran was hiking from Fallen Leaf Lake to Desolation Wilderness.
Jason Coughran was hiking from Fallen Leaf Lake to Desolation Wilderness.Provided / ECSO
Authorities ask that if you were hiking in the area and came across Coughran, to contact the sheriff’s office at 530-621-6600 or 530-573-3051.
The office warns that the weather can be unpredictable at high elevations and advises planning accordingly when venturing into the wilderness.
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – The Boys and Girls Club of Lake Tahoe honored youth and supporters during its 4th annual Bright Futures Awards Ceremony on May 20, 2026, at Heavenly’s California Main Lodge. The Club thanks Epic Promise for providing the venue and the amazing team at the lodge for their efforts and assistance.
For the fourth year in a row, Untethered Workspace was the Title Sponsor, matching donations up to $25,000 to support BGCLT. In 2026, the Club will mark $200,000 raised through the Untethered Workspace Match Donation. The last day to donate towards this match is May 31. Double your impact here: bit.ly/untethered-bgclt-2026.
Julio, the winner of this year’s Youth of the Year AwardProvided / BGCLT
Shawn Christian, a longtime volunteer and supporter of the Club, was joined by his wife, Ari Zucker, as the master of ceremonies. Over 125 people attended as the Club celebrated 22 awardees and their supporters.
The event opened with the 35th Anniversary Presentation presented by Jane Kim, Director of Organizational Development for the Pacific Region. “For 35 years, the organization has provided a safe place, with caring adults and opportunities for the youth of South Lake Tahoe to become productive and responsible citizens,” said Kim.
The event opened with the 35th Anniversary Presentation presented by Jane Kim, Director of Organizational Development for the Pacific Region. Provided / BGCLT
Awards are as follows:
Impact Award – Luis Munoz, Facilities Manager
10 Years of Being AWESOME, Celebrating 10 Years Employed at BGCLT – Ali Eller, Program Director
Distinguished Service – Teresa Bravo, Bijou Youth Development Professional
A.W.E.S.O.M.E. Awards
Accountable for My Actions – Bodi, Meyers 4th Grade
Welcoming to All – Thiago, Bijou Kindergarten
Everyone is Valued – Julia, Meyers 3rd Grade
Safe & Supportive – Hazel, Angel of Tahoe 1st Grade
Open & Honest – Kyllyan, Tahoe Valley 2nd Grade
Make Smart Choices – Hector, Angel of Tahoe 3rd Grade
Excited for Fun – Eli, Tahoe Valley 3rd Grade
Attendance Award – Angel of Tahoe Corlin, 5th Grade
Youth of the Year – Julio, Angel of Tahoe 8th Grade
Community Partner of the Year – Tahoe Institute for Natural Science (TINS), accepted by Sarah Hockensmith
Jeff Tillman Award – Terri Arnold, Board Member and former President
Angel of Tahoe Award – MacDuff’s Pub Tahoe, accepted by Iain Sievwright and Joe Zampino
Advocate Champion Award – Sarah Bedy, Director of BGCA California Alliance
Corporate Giving Award – Epic Promise Vail Resorts, accepted by John Jennings & Greg Kiskinen
The evening ended with the acknowledgement that in 2026, the Club will serve the highest number of youth in its history in the summer and continue its future expansion by opening a new site at Sierra House for grades TK–5 in Fall 2026. The Club will also be expanding its STEM, Art, Health & Wellness, and Sports programs to include career and technical education, teen leadership training, and the popular Dungeons & Dragons Club.
In 2026, the Club will serve the highest number of youth in its history in the summer.Provided / BGCLT
For over two decades, a dedicated community of local trail and bicycle advocates have worked tirelessly to shape the Tahoe region into a place where riding a bike is not just recreation, but a way of life. Through fundraising, trail development and maintenance, and the creation of maps and community events, our efforts have helped connect neighborhoods, reduce environmental impact, and invite both residents and visitors to experience Tahoe from the saddle of a bike.
Over the years, those efforts have sparked interest far beyond the basin. Inquiries have arrived from across the United States and as far afield as Europe, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, all asking the same question: Where are the best places to ride, eat, shop, stay, and play?
The answer depends on who you ask.
Recognizing that no single perspective can capture the richness of Tahoe’s bicycling culture, BikeTahoe.org launched last year the “Destination Hub” directories for South Tahoe and North Tahoe/Truckee, marking an important step forward. These guides offered thoughtfully curated starting points for bicyclists and outdoor enthusiasts alike—whether seasoned riders or those just discovering the joys on two wheels.
Now, the initiative is evolving into something even more inclusive.
This summer, with the support of media partners and community sponsors, we are inviting the public—residents and visitors alike—to help define Tahoe’s bicycling identity by participating in the inaugural “Best of Bike 2026” polling campaign. Running from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend, the campaign will open voting across both the South Tahoe and North Tahoe/Truckee regions.
Participants can weigh in on a wide range of categories, from businesses and organizations to events and rides, selecting the places and experiences that stand out most. Voters may focus on one region or contribute to both, helping to build a comprehensive picture of what truly resonates within Tahoe’s bicycling community.
Beyond recognition, the campaign serves a larger purpose. The results will offer meaningful insight into what bicyclists value most—what makes their experience memorable, what builds connection, and where there is room to improve and grow. For local businesses, organizations, and advocates, this feedback will be an essential tool in continuing to strengthen Tahoe as a bike-friendly community and destination.
In the end, “Best of Bike 2026” is more than a poll. It is an open invitation to help shape the future of bicycling in Tahoe—together.
And when we see each other on the trail, we’ll say hi and share our stories about the best of riding in Tahoe.
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – On Monday, May 11, Vail’s Kirkwood Mountain Resort was the host for Bread & Broth’s free early evening dinner which was attended by 130 grateful local residents. The full-course meal was funded in part by Vail’s Epic Promise Grant’s $350 Adopt A Day of Nourishment sponsorship fee along with funding provided by donations to Bread & Broth’s General Fund.
The evening meal of pulled pork sandwiches, coleslaw, and French fries was a hit with the dinner guests; with 23 returning for seconds and 19 taking home ‘meals to go”. In addition,
Bread & Broth provides bags of food for the dinner guests to take home for meals later in the week. The bags include basic staples such as meat, dairy products, fresh fruit and vegetables, breads and pastries, and varied assortment of yogurt, salads, and canned goods.
Volunteering on the meal’s Adopt A Day Crew were Kirkwood team members Will Cain, Derek Duff, Sage McDermott, and Lucy Warren. Since Kirkwood has been hosting Adopt A Day of Nourishment since 2015, many of the sponsor crew members have volunteered over the years and are a big help to the Bread & Broth volunteers with the meal’s setup, serving, and takedown/cleanup.
“Bread & Broth is a wonderful event,” shared Sage. ” We always enjoy helping out and seeing everyone’s smiling faces.” Not only are the dinner guests enjoying themselves at the Monday Meal, but it also provides the volunteers with a warm and ‘feel good’ experience. Volunteering at a B&B dinner event is a great way to help others by serving a warm, nourishing meal.
Left to right: Sage McDermott, Lucy Warren, Derek Duff, Will Cain.Provided / Bread and Broth
Bread & Broth is extremely fortunate to have the support of the Vail enterprise. In addition to providing EpicPromise grant funds to purchase fresh fruit and vegetables for the Monday Meal and kid-friendly food for B&B 4 Kids’ program, the grant funds also sponsor 12 Adopt A Day sponsorships annually which are hosted by Heavenly and Kirkwood Resort crew members.
Thank you to the Kirkwood crew who did an outstanding job in helping the B&B volunteers provide a successful meal and who put a lot of heart into providing a welcoming and warm experience for the dinner guests.
To learn more about Bread & Broth or how to donate or sponsor an Adopt A Day of Nourishment, please visit www.breadandbroth.org or follow Bread & Broth on Instagram or Facebook.
STATELINE, Nev. – A video has surfaced on social media of an all-out brawl on Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course occurring on Sunday, May 24.
The video shows a group of eight people, dressed in golf attire, some holding golf clubs, before they begin shoving each other aggressively. As shirt collars are grabbed and golf clubs go flying, three of the eight people end up in a pond on the course, with two of them continuing to assault each other in the water until they eventually break apart.
“Edgewood Tahoe Resort is aware of an incident involving a group of non-resort guests that took place on the golf course on May 24,” General Manager, Siobhan Fajayan, said in a statement.
“The matter was addressed immediately onsite, and local authorities were contacted to assist in responding to the situation. The individuals involved have been prohibited from returning to any area of the resort. The safety and experience of our guests and team members remain our top priority. As this was an isolated incident and no further action is being pursued at this time, we do not have additional details to share.”
This screenshot was taken from a video posted on Instagram by user @tahoe_touronsProvided/@tahoe_tourons via Instagram
TRUCKEE/TAHOE, calif. / Nev. – Warm spring weather across the Truckee-Tahoe region will take a brief pause this week as a fast-moving storm system brings wind, precipitation, and cooler temperatures through Thursday.
A Lake Wind Advisory was in effect for Lake Tahoe through 2 p.m. Tuesday, with wind gusts expected to reach 35 to 45 mph from the eastern Sierra into west-central Nevada through Wednesday morning.
The National Weather Service (NWS) is also calling for a mix of rain, snow, graupel (soft hail), and isolated thunderstorms through Thursday. Snow levels are expected to drop as low as 5,000 feet Wednesday.
Forecasters note that thunderstorms could become briefly strong Wednesday afternoon, though any location has an equal chance of impacts, estimated at 20 to 30 percent, as the storm system moves overhead. The primary hazards will be lightning, small accumulating hail, and brief heavy downpours.
“Plan on slick, wet, slushy roads Wednesday morning,” the NWS forecast discussion advises.
The system is expected to move out quickly, with warmer and drier conditions returning by the weekend. Highs are forecast to rebound into the 70s and even 80s across parts of the region.
Imagine a hidden highway inside your body — one that quietly sweeps away waste, supports radiant immunity, and keeps your tissues fresh and thriving.
That’s your lymphatic system, the unsung hero of your body’s cleansing and defense network. Every part of your body — from your brain to your toes — relies on your lymphatic system.
At its core, the lymphatic system moves a clear fluid called lymph throughout the body. This fluid carries nutrients, cellular waste, and immune cells through a vast network of tiny vessels woven through your connective tissue and fascia. Along the way, it passes through approximately 600 to 700 lymph nodes that act as filtration stations — screening out those toxins, bacteria, viruses, and other unwanted debris — helping keep your tissues clean, balanced, and protected.
When lymph nodes become congested, it means they’re busy collecting and trapping waste, toxins, and unwanted microbes. That’s part of their job. But we don’t want them to stay overloaded. When lymph fluid isn’t moving well, those “filters” can become sluggish — and instead of efficiently clearing debris and supporting immune activity, they can feel swollen, tender, or stagnant.
Unlike your heart, which pumps blood automatically, the lymphatic system does not have its own pump. It relies on movement, breathing, muscle contraction, and manual stimulation to keep fluid flowing. When flow slows down, waste can build up and immune function may not work as efficiently.
That’s why lymphatic drainage is so powerful. Gentle, relaxing, rhythmic techniques help move trapped fluid out of congested areas, allowing lymph nodes to clear what they’ve collected and continue producing and circulating lymphocytes — the immune cells that protect you. When lymph is flowing well, your body can detoxify, reduce swelling, and support immunity much more effectively.
Benefits ripple through the entire body:
Reduced swelling and inflammation — especially helpful after surgery, injury, or with conditions like lymphedema and autoimmune pain.
Enhanced immune function — by promoting efficient lymph circulation, your body can better filter pathogens and support defense mechanisms.
Improved circulation and tissue health — as fluid balance is restored, cells receive more oxygen and nutrients.
Calming, restorative effects — the effects touch of lymphatic therapy supports your nervous system and gets you out of fight and fight response into rest and restore.
Cosmetic glow — reduced puffiness and revitalized skin tone leave you feeling refreshed inside and out.
MLD is a gentle, rhythmic form of bodywork designed to stimulate lymph flow and help detox the body. Think of it as a spa day for your immune system.
Performed with light, sweeping hand movements, MLD encourages stagnant fluid to move toward lymph nodes where cleansing and filtering happen naturally. Who can benefit? EVERYONE!
MLD offers support for many concerns including but not limited to:
Edema and post-surgical swelling
Autoimmune flares
Chronic fatigue
Fibromyalgia and pain syndromes
Digestive sluggishness
Pre- and post-natal fluid retention
Detox and immune challenges
Skin conditions like acne or dullness
Nervous system and sleep challenges
Faster injury recovery
These benefits make Manual Lymphatic Drainage a sought-after therapy not just for recovery but for vibrant wellness and self-care.
For those seeking a professional, tailored approach, Dr. Lang at Lake Tahoe Wellness Center in Kings Beach offers a signature Enhanced Lymphatics™ therapy coupled with essential oils, designed to stimulate proper lymphatic flow and circulation using a specialized relaxing technique rooted in naturopathic healing principles.
Clients report real transformations — from reduced inflammation and improved circulation, better sleep, more alert and faster recovery after illness and relief from chronic discomfort.
Whether you’re navigating autoimmune challenges, post-viral fatigue, or simply want to optimize your body’s natural detox pathways, this gentle but powerful therapy invites your lymphatic system to work at its best.
Your lymphatic system may operate quietly, but its impact resonates throughout your whole body. By giving it the support it deserves — through therapy like Manual Lymphatic Drainage — you’re nurturing health from the inside out, unlocking energy, and embracing wellness in every cell.
Ready to unlock your body’s own detox support? Explore lymphatic health and give your body’s natural detox system the attention it deserves.
INCLINE VILLAGE, Nev. – Players at Incline Village golf courses had success over Memorial Day Weekend with three players hitting hole-in-ones.
Sherrie Grabot, 64, of Incline Village hit an ace on Hole 10 of the Mountain Course on May 24. She hit the 157-yard shot with her driver. This was her first hole-in-one.
Sherrie GrabotProvided
Nine-year-old Henry Hoybjerg hit a 120-yard ace on Hole 8 at the Championship Course on May 23. According to his mother, “a core memory was definitely made.”
Ryan Sweeney, 29, hit his first ace on Hole 7 at the Mountain Course on May 23. He hit the 132-yard shot with his Pitching Wedge.
TAHOE CITY, Calif. – Enviro-Sports Productions, a leader in Open Water Swim and Endurance Sports, announced the transfer of Sharkfest Swim Lake Tahoe to Big Blue Adventure. The move signals a new chapter for the event, with a focus on growth and innovation under new leadership. Originally launched in 2010, Sharkfest Swim Lake Tahoe has grown into a premier open-water swimming competition, drawing athletes from across the region to the stunning venue of Sand Harbor, Nevada State Park, on Lake Tahoe’s east shore. The event is scheduled for Saturday, September 19, 2026.
“We’re proud of what Sharkfest Lake Tahoe has become and how beautiful this swim is. It features the clear water of Lake Tahoe,” said Dave Horning, president of Envirosports. “Big Blue Adventure has helped with operational aspects of the event over the past few years. We truly believe that Big Blue Adventure is the perfect organization to lead the event into its next exciting chapter.”
Envirosports transfers ownership of Lake Tahoe Sharkfest to Big Blue Adventure. Provided / Big Blue Adventure
Big Blue Adventure, a seasoned organizer of endurance sports, plans to expand the event by adding it to the Sierra Open Water Swimming schedule and offering more distance options.
President Todd Jackson said, “We’re honored to take on the Sharkfest Swim Lake Tahoe,” emphasizing the event’s legacy and community, as well as their commitment to building on its momentum and enhancing the experience.
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – Over the Memorial Day holiday and week, South Lake Tahoe California Highway Patrol Officers made over 10 arrests, responded to 17 crashes, issued over 115 citations and impounded over 10 vehicles
The arrests were related to driving under the influence (DUI), warrants, stolen property and drug-related charges, including one traffic stop that resulted in an arrest due to a warrant from Sacramento County for drug possession. During the stop, officers discovered the subject had drugs and paraphernalia in possession.
Another stop resulted in a DUI arrest for drugs and possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell.
Officers also stopped a truck and trailer that had been swerving and crossing solid double yellow lines. The trailer had been stolen from Reno, Nev., and the truck had an altered VIN. Additionally, the driver was using a suspended license and had two warrants: a felony warrant from El Dorado County for evading peace officers and a warrant from San Joaquin County.
Officers charged the driver with possession of stolen property, altering a VIN, and a felony probation violation.
A stolen-vehicle report led officers to a residence in Tahoma, Calif. Officers tracked the stolen vehicle using license plate readers (LPRs). The vehicle owner knew the suspect and provided identifying information to the officers.
LPRs revealed that the vehicle went to Reno and was heading west on I-80 near Truckee. The tracking officer assumed the driver was heading back home. CHP and El Dorado County Sheriff’s officers met the suspect in the driveway and arrested them.
CHP also responded to a crash that ended in a DUI arrest for drugs, resisting arrest and possession of a controlled substance.
Another crash with major injuries led to the arrest of the driver, who was under the influence of alcohol, and was placed under arrest for felony DUI causing injuries.
PLACERVILLE, Calif. – More than five years have passed since the Civil Grand Jury issued recommendations in 2020 to operate county-owned airports. Progress was minimal until 2024, when the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors (Board) moved the Airports Division from the Planning and Building Department to the Chief Administrative Office (CAO).
The Grand Jury acknowledges the County’s initiative to update policies and procedures related to County owned airports. According to the report, the undertaking is commendable, yet concerns remain regarding the openness and effectiveness of its implementation.
The report, “El Dorado County Owned Airports – Navigating Change,” was published recently at www.eldodradocounty.ca.gov/Grand-Jury by the Superior Court, which annually appoints 19 county residents as grand jurors to serve as citizen watchdogs over local government.
The Grand Jury investigated recent changes to the Airports Division after its operations returned to the CAO as approved by the Board in 2024. Following the transfer, CAO staff promptly initiated updates to airport operations by revising existing ordinances and policies. Standards and procedures for airport users’ ground leases were updated to reflect policy changes.
As a result, the Grand Jury investigated several complaints with concerns ranging from ground lease terms and insurance demands to inadequate representation and public outreach.
All findings and recommendations can be found in the full report on the County website. Under California law, the Board of Supervisors must respond to the Grand Jury report within 90 days.
Fire crews have started their bootcamps, red flag warnings have been issued across California, and for a month now, the sign at a Truckee Fire station on Donner Pass Road has been flashing the annual urge:
It’s never too early
for defensible space
Updated projections for 2026 wildland fire potential were released on May 1, by the National Interagency Coordination Center, showing the California side of Lake Tahoe having above average potential for wildfire beginning in May and continuing through August, which is as far out as the projections forecast, and the Nevada side of the lake having above average potential beginning in June.
The severity of conditions across the state have been building for years, said David Acuña, a spokesperson for Cal Fire out of its Sacramento headquarters. But “one strange winter does add its own element.” The time frame for fire season has expanded, and California slips into what Acuña and other fire officials have begun to call a fire year.
The total snowfall during the 2025/26 winter was only about 50 inches below average, but it came in bursts. The upper foothills and higher were sunny and unseasonably warm in January and February, melting the snow from a storm in late December. This began drying out fuels. Then came another big storm and a warm cycle, and again.
“We’ve also had occasional rain, and that’s great,” Acuña said, “but it leads to the eventuality that the grasses [or light, flashy fuels, like pine needles] continue to grow and die.”
1 of 4
SUMMER 2026: On May 1, the National Interagency Fire Center released its National Wildland Significant Fire Potential Outlook, spanning May through August. Areas marked in red show above-average wildland fire potential. Courtesy graphics
SUMMER 2026: On May 1, the National Interagency Fire Center released its National Wildland Significant Fire Potential Outlook, spanning May through August. Areas marked in red show above-average wildland fire potential. Courtesy graphics
SUMMER 2026: On May 1, the National Interagency Fire Center released its National Wildland Significant Fire Potential Outlook, spanning May through August. Areas marked in red show above-average wildland fire potential. Courtesy graphics
SUMMER 2026: On May 1, the National Interagency Fire Center released its National Wildland Significant Fire Potential Outlook, spanning May through August. Areas marked in red show above-average wildland fire potential. Courtesy graphics
This phenomenon isn’t new. Even in winters with less sporadic snowfall, plants grow in the spring and die and dry later in the summer. Wildland firefighters call August “dirty August” because it’s usually when plants have had time to go through the cycle of growth, death, and drying.
Sometimes the fuels don’t burn, though — lightning doesn’t strike, winds don’t blow at the right time, or the fire is put out before it’s burned all the available fuel. “Over time, the fuels have layered over on top of each other,” Acuña said. “Now California is like a haystack of light fuels that are ready to burn.”
Other parts of the U.S., especially the central south, are already seeing wildfire activity. According to Tyler Andrade, forestry field supervisor for the Tahoe Donner Association, these fires are “ahead of the season.”
Tahoe Donner is a Firewise Community where its forestry staff rotate through the nearly 6,500 homes, the common areas, and the trails every six years to ensure the necessary home hardening and forest management are current.
Of particular importance is the association’s southwest corner, which receives the brunt of Truckee’s common southwest wind. “A lot of our focus goes into that southwest corner,” Andrade said, “and making that extremely defended, hardened, and good to go, and then spreading out, working properties and common areas.”
Andrade emphasized the importance of community work as well: “I really do believe that the community’s got to buy in,” he said, “and then you will see individual ownership from there.”
Community ownership and buy-in rose quickly after the 2021 Caldor Fire, which burned more than 221,000 acres in California and caused the city of South Lake Tahoe to evacuate. The fire came within 4 miles of Lake Tahoe’s south shore. As then-Cal Fire Assistant Chief Brian Newman (now retired) told Moonshine in 2022, it was “the biggest event in history in Lake Tahoe.” That remains the case.
This tragedy, which Andrade worked on for the U.S. Forest Service, became “a very large reminder and eyeopener of ‘don’t get complacent,’” he said.
“California is like a haystack of light fuels that are ready to burn.”
~ David Acuña, Cal Fire spokesperson
That said, the Caldor Fire happened almost five years ago.
“I really do believe human nature will always battle with complacency,” Andrade said. “And I really hate to say it, but five years in, there definitely are small things where you look at and you can tell where there hasn’t been a threat or a scare. People start to let their guard down a little bit. People start to forget … I do believe complacency will always be a small narrative.”
Andrade echoed Acuña’s observations about the 2025/26 winter, and urged resident and visitor wildfire education and the importance of “understanding that longer drying periods can create a longer fire season, which makes early mitigation and preparedness even more vital.”
THINNING OUT: The morning of May 14, Tahoe Donner Association’s forestry crew members went through a common area and identified timber to be removed so as not to crowd the space. Before/after photos courtesy Tyler Andrade
Early snowmelt means public agencies and private contractors can begin mechanically clearing excess fuels sooner, but it also makes the window for prescribed burns — which can only be done in specific temperature, humidity, and fuel moisture content ranges — shorter. Acuña recommends looking at Cal Fire and U.S. Forest Service social media accounts to keep up to date on where and when prescribed burns will take place.
“I wouldn’t say there’s one area that’s worse or better [for this fire season],” Acuña says. “It’s a matter of matching weather conditions with what’s on the ground.”
Half of this equation is controllable, but Acuña says the amount of work that’s recommended for fire prevention is often overwhelming. “If you look at the recommendations, there’s a lot,” he explained. “If you would just replace your roof and replace your deck and replace your siding, tear the whole house down … We’re not asking that. What’s necessary to protect your home is to start with the first 5 feet [around your home]. It’s not a guarantee, but it is moving the right direction. We’re always going to recommend the next step. But just start.”
The Tahoe City Public Utility District has never built a water system. Instead, as its inception in 1938 intended, it bought up small, privately owned water companies that dotted the North and West shores of Lake Tahoe to consolidate them into one locally controlled public water system.
Over the course of nine decades, the TCPUD has brought two dozen water systems into its fold. Designed primarily for summer use, these small water systems were not built to meet modern drinking water standards or operate year-round. By the 21st century, many of these systems — with aging infrastructure and delayed capital improvements — were at risk of failing.
The Mid-Sierra Water Utility, located in Tahoma, is one of those failing. Purchased by the PUD in 2018, it comprises two water systems – Tahoe Cedars and Madden Creek. Tahoe Cedars, built in the 1940s, is so big and in such dire straits that its renovation represents the largest, most expensive, and most complex water system reconstruction project in the district’s history. And it is not without controversy.
The point of contention centers around the proposed staging area for Phase 1 of the project. Neighbors are concerned about environmental impacts to the surrounding forest and wildlife habitat, and question why this location was selected when, in their view, other sites are better suited for a staging area. The PUD, however, contends this site is the most efficient because it’s near the construction and will reduce disturbances to the greater neighborhood.
FIRE SAFETY: A map of where the Tahoe City Public Utility District will be installing 144 new fire hydrants in the Tahoma neighborhood as part of the Tahoe Cedars Water System Reconstruction Project. Illustration courtesy TCPUD
Tahoe Cedars
Between 1939 and 1979, the TCPUD consolidated 19 small water systems. In the last eight years alone, it spent $7.8 million to purchase five more, all on the West Shore.
Tahoe Cedars is the oldest and — due to aging pipelines, limited storage, outdated or nonexistent meters, and patched-together infrastructure — is actively failing. The system has 1,200 connections, representing 20% of the PUD’s water customers. The project entails replacing 15 miles of undersized and failing water pipes, installing 144 fire hydrants (the neighborhood currently only has around 80, most of which do not meet modern fire protection flow standards), and installing 1,200 residential water meters, which means relocating the connections from residents’ backyards to the public right-of-way. (The PUD is helping to offset these service relocation costs to homeowners by offering a $5,000 reimbursement, or $12,000 for those who qualify for the district’s low-income program.)
The water pipes are in such bad condition that many have holes in them, which were patched by the previous owners with clamps. As a result, the district put a moratorium on fire hydrant testing.
“We can’t do it anymore because anytime we open a fire hydrant, it creates more leaks,” said TCPUD General Manager Sean Barclay.
DETERIORIATING: Pipes in the Tahoe Cedars water system, which date back to the 1940s, are actively failing and leaking. Many were patched with clamps by the previous owner.
The estimated cost to fix the Tahoe Cedars water system is currently $85 million, but the district expects that number to rise due to inflation. Funding for the project comes from water rate revenue from all of the district’s 6,200 customers and property taxes. However, starting in January 2024, Tahoe Cedars and Madden Creek customers began paying an additional infrastructure improvement charge of $43.58 per month for 30 years, marking the first time the PUD has implemented an additional charge to a select group of customers.
“This is directly related to the magnitude of the cost of the project,” Barclay said. “We spend an inordinate amount of time in that water system [more] than in any other system fixing leaks.”
Although the district has a One Water System policy, which includes a single rate structure across its customer service area, the PUD made an exception to its rule to offset the extreme expense of the Tahoma project.
“It’s an attempt to balance equity between customers in this system and customers in the rest of the system,” Barclay said. “The magnitude of the costs to rebuild this system is much greater than we have ever had to do with previous acquisitions.”
Environmental Concerns
The Tahoe Cedars water tank was selected by the district as the staging area for the water system reconstruction. This is a roughly 3-acre parcel owned by the TCPUD and surrounded by 42 acres of California Tahoe Conservancy land. Although the district considered 30 sites scattered throughout and surrounding the Tahoma neighborhood for the staging area, it landed on the Tahoe Cedars water tank because of its location adjacent to the project.
“The reason the parcel is being considered as one of many potential staging locations is just its proximity to the construction site and the fact that we own the parcel,” Barclay said. “The closer it is to the site of construction is ideal, right? There’s not trucks driving through the neighborhood. You can minimize the time that’s needed to access the materials that are stored there.”
However, when neighbors became aware of this, they grew concerned. The Tahoe Cedars water tank leads to heavily used trails that are accessed by hikers, dog walkers, mountain bikers, and cross-country skiers. The trails are the community’s main access to Sugar Pine Point State Park and national forest.
1 of 2
HIGH-MAINTENANCE: A TCPUD utility crew searches for a water-main leak in a backyard in Tahoma. The district says it spends more time in this area fixing leaks than in any other service area.
BUSTED: Pipes from the original 1940s Tahoe Cedars water system that have failed and been removed by the TCPUD.
“Why would you even think of putting a corporation yard like that in a forest when you got what the PUD stated was 30 other alternatives?” asked neighbor Rick Landgraf. “This is a community impact. Would you take Commons Beach and let trucks drive all over it? That’s how we should be thinking about it.”
Landgraf, a former hydrologist, is alarmed by the heavy equipment that will be stationed at the site, speculating that there will be 200 pieces of heavy equipment and a 12,000-gallon fuel tank.
“My experience when I was doing this kind of work, this stuff is really damaging. It compacts soils and vibrates; it’s loud,” he said. “It will lead to very serious and permanent destruction … That can lead to runoff problems. In a corporation yard, that’s an area where you take equipment. Sometimes it breaks, it needs to be repaired, you have to drain fluids. I am flabbergasted to even think why somebody would want to put that in the middle of a forest.”
Landgraf also worries about a loose chain sparking or equipment overheating and causing a fire.
Barclay, however, said that characterization of the staging area as an industrial yard is not accurate, and that the PUD is not even going to utilize the entire 3-acre parcel; the district says that it will use less than an acre. He also estimated that there would not be more than 10 to 15 pieces of equipment at the site at one time.
“It’s not going to be an industrial yard, nor will it be the only staging area … There will be no fuel storage tanks or chemical storage tank at that site,” he said. “We would maintain recreation access throughout the duration of that use … This is nowhere near the size, scale, or impact that is being described right now.”
WHY HERE? The proposed staging area at the Tahoe Cedars water tank in Tahoma, which leads to highly used trails and is near an American goshawk nest, is at the center of the controversy surrounding the water system reconstruction. Photos courtesy TCPUD
The Nesting Site
Other concerns include an American goshawk nest on the conservancy land (the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency said it is unknown if it is currently an active nest). Although goshawks are not endangered, they are designated as a sensitive species by the U.S. Forest Service.
“They are very sensitive to disturbance and relatively intolerant of activity by humans, and they are very protective of their nests,” said Will Richardson, Tahoe Institute of Natural Science executive director. “That is one of the reasons the Forest Service and other land management agencies put a lot of effort into trying to protect the birds.”
The TRPA has a threshold of 12 active goshawk nests in the Basin. In 2010, the last time a full survey was conducted, 10 sites were recorded (there are 30 known nests, but not all are active). The agency and USFS require a quarter-mile buffer zone around nesting areas, which the latter calls Protected Activity Centers (PACs), where no disturbance is allowed. According to the TRPA, the Tahoe Cedars water-tank site sits outside the requisite buffer.
Neighbor Mike Levin became so concerned about the staging area that he started a Facebook page and website, Save Tahoma Wilderness, in March. It states, “We support community progress and utility upgrades, but we believe they must be made without destroying our forest. We are advocating for using developed, paved alternative staging sites that preserve the integrity of Tahoma’s trails and the safety of our neighbors.”
The website provided an advocacy toolkit including talking points, an email template, and facts to share. According to TRPA spokesperson Jeff Cowen, the agency received around 12 of these email form letters.
1 of 2
FORMER HYDROLOGIST Rick Landgraf, who has a home in Tahoma near the proposed staging area for the Tahoe Cedars Water System Reconstruction Project, is concerned about impacts to the forest and wildlife. Courtesy photo
PUBLIC PROCESS: TCPUD General Manager Sean Barclay said of the controversial staging area for the Tahoe Cedars water system project: “We’re going to continue to evaluate it and evaluate whether we have other options that are better or more efficient. We’re going to go through all the processes that are required to make sure that we actually can use it.” Courtesy photo
Staging Area Deferred
Levin and Landgraf also accused TCPUD of sidestepping the CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act) process. However, Barclay said that its CEQA consultants determined that Tahoe Cedars was categorically exempt, but that “as individual phases move through and get to the final design phase, these changes are consistently evaluated by us and reviewed to confirm whether there is any additional environmental review [warranted] … we always make sure our projects comply with CEQA.”
Barclay added, “I can just tell you that we are very transparent. We pride ourselves on that. There is nothing to hide here. We’re a public agency. We are not a for-profit agency.”
The TCPUD was required to obtain a TRPA permit for the Tahoe Cedars project, which was granted in April. By that time, however, the district had removed the portion of the project that would have required the use of the staging area in the forest — replacing the waterline on Placer Street and Antelope Way above Elm Street — from its application for Phase 1. (The project is so big there are four phases.) That decision was made partly because in mid-2025, the PUD learned of the goshawk nest.
“We are concerned. We are aware of it now and we will make sure that we are doing all the work that we need to do to meet any sort of regulations to protect the goshawk,” Barclay asserted. “So that is also part of the reason that we removed that piece of pipe from this project — to make sure we’re doing all of the work that we need to do to comply with any regulations or requirements to protect the environment or wildlife.”
While the staging area at the Tahoe Cedars water tank is off the table for now, the PUD will eventually need to revisit the idea when it’s ready to bring back the portion of Phase 1 involving the waterline.
The TRPA stated that if the PUD decides to reconsider the water tank area, it will monitor the site for bird activity.
COMMUNITY TRAILS: The Tahoe Cedars water tank marks the start of popular trails that are used year-round and are the main access route for neighbors to reach Sugar Pine Point State Park and national forest. Photo courtesy Mike Levin
“A lot of times when it comes to potential impacts to wildlife, then projects are put on hold while monitoring happens because monitoring for, especially bird habitat, can take an entire season,” Cowen said. “Sometimes noise monitoring happens during projects as well, so that we know if the project needs to change BMPs, change time of day, change time of year, that it operates.”
Despite the TRPA’s and TCPUD’s assurances that the project will follow all environmental regulations, neighbors are not convinced.
“Eight years into this project, and weeks from groundbreaking, fundamental questions on fire risk, public safety, environmental impact, site design, and project financing remain unanswered in the public record,” Landgraf wrote in an email to Moonshine Ink.
With the staging area put on the back burner for the near future, neighbors are breathing a sigh of relief, but only temporarily.
“We will continue to monitor and organize the community and continue to see that the PUD does the responsible thing here, and not what’s convenient for the contractor,” Levin said.
Concern spread across the region in March when it was announced that NV Energy will stop providing electricity generation service to Liberty Utilities — provider for the California side of the Lake Tahoe Basin — by 2027.
In reaction, Liberty is taking steps to find a new provider. Currently, the utility is seeking approval through the California Public Utility Commission (CPUC) to launch a formal search process. Assuming approval, a formal bidding process is anticipated to start this summer. Official results and a decision will likely be known in winter of 2026/27, and an agreement with a new supplier established in spring 2027.
Eric Schwarzrock, who has been Liberty Utilities president for about a year and a half now and a longtime South Lake Tahoe resident, has expressed a goal of transparency during the process across various outlets, town halls, and public forums.
That’s the plan for what has been described as an emergency. The discontinuance of power generation by NV Energy, as noted in a March letter to CPUC from Liberty, came as “a surprise.” In a 2022 Integrated Resource Plan, Liberty wrote that it assumed operating “through the end of 2025, and then under similar provisions for 2026-2030, under a follow-on NV Energy ESA (Energy Services Agreement).”
NV Energy, meanwhile, says this separation has been in the works all along.
“The decision not to extend the Liberty agreement long term is rooted in the original planning assumptions and contractual intent dating back to the 2009 asset sale,” shared Katie Nannini, community relations manager for NV Energy, in an email. “NV Energy sold the Liberty load with the clear understanding that it would not serve that load indefinitely.”
Review of public documents submitted to the CPUC over the past five years shows a nuanced situation between the two utility companies, including efforts Liberty previously took to separate from NV Energy. Liberty declined to comment beyond public statements that have already been made.
Now the situation, regardless of a shared history, is down to the wire.
Illustration by Sarah Miller/Moonshine Ink
An electrifying past
The separation of the two utilities is the final step for what was once one company. Liberty Utilities used to be owned by NV Energy — specifically Sierra Pacific Power Company, one of three subsidiaries that merged in 1999 and began doing business as NV Energy in 2008.
In 2011, at the conclusion of the 2009 asset sale, NV Energy, an investor-owned holding company incorporated under Nevada law, divested its California electric assets, comprising about 46,000 square miles in seven counties. After a multi-layered sale, the California customers ended up in the hands of CalPeco, aka Liberty Utilities, a subsidiary of Algonquin Power and Utilities Corp.
Along with the sale, NV Energy “also agreed to provide energy and generation capacity for a temporary transition period,” Nannini explained. “That period was originally set for five years and was later extended in 2015 and again in 2020 to give Liberty more time to implement its long term plans.”
And Liberty did try.
HIGH VOLTAGE: Liberty Utilities currently receives its power generation and transmission through NV Energy, which eventually makes its way to the Tahoe City Substation, pictured here. The substation takes power from the transmission lines and distributes it to households and businesses. Photo by Jared Alden/Moonshine Ink
An attempt at separation occurred in 2018, when Liberty began negotiations with potential third-party suppliers “in order to seek more favorable terms and conditions and pursue its own accelerated renewable goals,” per an advice letter from Liberty to CPUC. The small, multi-jurisdictional utility sent an early termination notice to NV Energy in January 2018, to be effective May 1, 2019.
What stalled this effort? NV Energy itself. To move to a third-party supplier, Liberty needed to reserve space in NV Energy’s transmission system for a supplier to send electricity through. In July 2018, Liberty filed for 145 megawatts (MWs) of service. Space was reserved based on numbers provided by NV Energy. Four months later, using those numbers, Liberty began officially soliciting a new energy provider.
But the amount of availability in NV Energy’s transmission system turned out to be wrong.
“In January 2019,” a 2020 letter from Liberty to the CPUC stated, “NVE informed Liberty CalPeco of [a] … calculation error, which, after it was corrected, showed that 11 MW of Import Transmission Capacity was available for Liberty CalPeco, far less than previously published.”
Based on such constraints, by August 2019, no realistic alternatives emerged for Liberty. Negotiations with NV Energy were reopened and in August 2020, an ESA was created “for the sale and delivery of capacity and energy to Liberty” from December 2020 to December 2025.
At first, this new ESA was described by Liberty “as a bridge until Liberty CalPeco can secure utility-owned non-GHG emitting renewable generation through a competitive process, which will enable it to achieve its ambitious 100% renewables goal.”
Yet two years later, Liberty was anticipating remaining an NV Energy customer indefinitely since the Nevada utility company was providing the best possible outcome for its customers … until a new project goes online.
“Given Liberty’s understanding of NV Energy’s transmission planning activities,” the 2022 Integrated Resource Plan states, “the earliest time at which Liberty could potentially leave its current energy supply arrangement with NV Energy would be after Phase I of the Greenlink Initiative goes into service.”
The data center of it all
NV Energy’s Greenlink is a two-part project installing two kilovolt lines, or “energy highways,” across Nevada — one running for 250 miles, from Las Vegas to Yerington (Greenlink West), the other spanning 235 miles from Ely to Yerington (Greenlink North). These lines will allow the utility to increase import capacity for Northern Nevada. A December 2025 update from NV Energy stated, “The completion of Greenlink West and Greenlink North — along with the existing One Nevada Line — creates a triangle of transmission in the state … Greenlink Nevada results in modernization of the grid, improves reliability for customers, and positions NV Energy to meet Nevada’s energy needs.”
GREENLINK’S LINKAGE: NV Energy’s Greenlink Initiative is adding two “energy highways” across Nevada to increase import capacity for Northern Nevada. Greenlink West, running from Las Vegas to Yerington, is anticipated to be completed May 2027. Courtesy map
Greenlink West is anticipated to be completed May 2027 and will serve as the signal for Liberty’s official transition from NV Energy. This same project will help address the increasingly competitive market for power resources, especially with the increase of data centers in Washoe and Storey counties. Data centers are physical facilities housing and running large computer systems.
The U.S. Congress reported in January 2026: “U.S. data center annual energy use in 2023 (not accounting for cryptocurrency) was approximately 176 terawatt-hours (TWh), approximately 4.4% of U.S. annual electricity consumption that year, according to a report by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory … Some projections show that data center energy consumption could double or triple by 2028, accounting for up to 12% of U.S. electricity use.”
At the time of the Congressional report, there were no “legally binding energy standards” applying specifically to private sector data center operations.
However, at the end of March, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) announced the Artificial Intelligence Data Center Moratorium Act, which would effectively put a pin in further data center development until more oversight can be established. As of press deadline, the bill lies with the Congressional Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
Currently, there are 29 such centers between Reno, Sparks, and the Tahoe Reno Industrial Center (TRI Center), the latter home to all but six of them. TRI Center’s first data center — Switch’s “Citadel Campus” — began construction in 2015 and officially opened in early 2017.
Then-Storey County Commissioner Marshall McBride said of the project, “With Switch’s $1 billion investment and 3-million-square-foot SUPERNAP data center, this region is solidifying its place in the technology innovation space. The country is looking at Nevada differently and now sees northern Nevada, Storey County, and TRI as the place for development projects of any size.”
NV Energy’s Nannini said, contrary to other media reports, the decision to stop providing power for Liberty was not driven by the rise of data centers, citing original contractual intent “well before data center load growth was a consideration … Data center growth did not change that position.”
Still a live wire
While NV Energy is pulling the plug on the actual power in the lines, it will still provide Liberty Utilities transmission services. Liberty (as well as the Truckee Donner Public Utility District, which powers Truckee) is part of NV Energy’s balancing authority, meaning NV Energy is responsible for ensuring the electric grid operates reliably 24/7 for users within its region.
Where the power will come from is what Liberty leaders are working on figuring out. The utility customers are not physically connected to the rest of California, so pulling power from the state is problematic. “It would take a large transmission line from our service territory over the Sierras and then west further into California,” Liberty’s Schwarzrock said during a late-April Placer County town hall. “We looked at the nearest connection points. One of the ones that was closest that potentially would be one of the most reasonable connections was near El Dorado Hills. That would be a transmission line from El Dorado Hills toward South Lake Tahoe. [It would cost] hundreds of millions of dollars to build a transmission like line like that over the Sierras.
“We may seek to do something like that,” he continued. “But right now, that was not the best option. We actually have evaluated nine different [energy supply options] … to assemble our energy supply portfolio. Utilities often utilize a mix of strategies, including but not limited to, direct ownership, power purchase agreements, and various market options. [The transmission line option] was the least beneficial option because of the cost to build that transmission line.”
Liberty Utilities maintains two solar projects in Nevada that provide power, though not enough at present to power its customers entirely: There is the 50-MW Luning solar facility, which is forecasted to deliver 101,000 megawatt hours (MWh) in 2026, and the 10-MW Turquoise facility, anticipated to deliver 21,000 MWh. “For many days out of the year,” shared Liberty’s manager of regional communications, Kurt Althof, in an email. “When the sun is shining, our facilities provide 100% of the required supply.”
How ratepayers will be affected by the transition remains unknown, though Liberty has stated in an FAQ on the situation that it intends to keep affordability at the forefront of its discussions with potential providers.
Schwarzrock said there are numerous alternatives for how the company can approach the void, including wind farms, solar and battery farms, geothermal options, and full-service energy suppliers. As a winter-peaking region, Tahoe’s highest energy demand comes during the colder months — contrary to other utilities in the Western U.S., which use the most electricity during summer for air conditioning.
“It’s important to us that we’re going to make them compete for our business,” he said. “We’re looking forward for those entities to compete. We are a good partner and a good load for energy suppliers, so we expect a competitive process. Our priorities as we go through that [Request for Proposals] and make our transparent selections with the CPUC, are that we’re going to prioritize renewable and achieving our renewable goals within the state of California, and we are going to prioritize affordability.”
Could Something Similar Happen in Truckee?
The Truckee Donner Public Utility District’s coverage area lies as an independent island within Liberty’s service. The only overlap for TDPUD and Liberty is that they both rely on transmission from NV Energy.
“We pay our fair share to NV Energy for the transmission services they give us,” said Steven Poncelet, public information and strategic affairs director for the PUD. “That’s all done at the federal level through the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.”
Beyond that commonality, TDPUD has a different makeup entirely as an electricity provider.
Rather than the investor-owned utility model, the PUD is a municipal not-for-profit agency that provides both water and electric services for the Truckee community. As one of 18 special districts in the Truckee/North Tahoe region, it is overseen by an elected board of directors.
TDPUD’s power primarily comes from the Utah Associated Municipal Power System (UAMPS), which consists of 49 public power utilities across many western states. “That’s who builds and owns and operates all of our power plants,” Poncelet said. “So, when we say that our largest resource is Horse Butte Wind in Idaho, that’s a project that we own a percentage of, and that is run, owned, and operated by UAMPS on behalf of the members. They have the transmission, and then they send the power to us eventually through NV energy transmission for delivery to our customers.”
Could NV Energy similarly end its transmissions contracts with TDPUD as it has done with Liberty’s power generation contract? Poncelet said that’s not a concern. “The [transmissions] contracts that we have are approved by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission … and across the industry, every utility across the country goes to FERC for these transmission contracts. Many lawyers have asked that question, so I’m pretty confident they couldn’t just decide not to service.”
My wife and I moved from Mammoth Lakes to Tahoe City in 1980. Back then, being a “mountain person” wasn’t a brand, it was a way of life. We learned from those who came before us. Nature was our guide, and long-time locals showed us how to live in rhythm with it: shoveling the roof before it bowed, reading a subtle shift in the wind and clouds before a storm, and knowing exactly which neighbor’s truck would get stuck after the plow turned the road into ice.
When we had questions about mountain living, we sought out people who had actually lived it — true experts on where to go, what to do, and how to do it.
The mountains are as beautiful as ever, but their rhythm has changed. We’ve shifted from a true “mountain town” to a “mountain resort.” The lake is still breathtaking; the backcountry is still full of adventure, but the way we live here has become increasingly digital.
The Covid era brought a surge of new energy to our Basin, much of it driven by the tech sector. There is no denying the immense value these new residents bring — their economic contributions and fresh cultural perspectives are essential ingredients in the evolving story of the Tahoe/Truckee area. They also arrived with remarkable technological tools.
And something else: a new kind of expert I’ll call the “techspert.”
A techspert is someone who has mastered the data of the mountains without fully absorbing the experience. They find trailheads through apps instead of conversations. They troubleshoot a woodstove on a forum instead of asking a neighbor. Too often, they take frustrations to social media instead of resolving them face-to-face — the very interactions that once defined our community.
As a healthcare provider, I’ve spent my career observing the difference between a body that simply functions and one that is truly vital. I see a parallel here. Technology can guide you to a trailhead with perfect GPS accuracy. It can tell you the temperature, the elevation, and the distance. But it lacks nuance.
A techspert may know the stats of a hike, but not that a recent washout has turned it into a sandbagged bushwhack. They have information, but not the “preventative medicine” of local wisdom.
Techsperts will never replace experts.
A seasoned local can tell you why a certain shift in the clouds means you should head home early or why taking just 10 extra steps down a slope will lead you to a spot with the kind of energy that doesn’t just “use” nature but revitalizes the soul.
Apps tell you what is happening; humans tell you how to feel it.
This isn’t a rejection of technology. I value the information age and rely on it in many ways. Rather, it’s an invitation to balance technology with mentorship. It isn’t just our newer residents who’ve been pulled in by technology — we all have. But don’t let these mountains exist only on your screen; belong to them.
Instead of scrolling through an anonymous forum, walk into your local shop. Ask about the best tires for riding on decomposed granite or the ideal ski wax for a warm spring morning. These places aren’t just stores, they’re living archives.
The next time you’re curious about a route or a storm, pause before you reach for your phone. Say hello to a neighbor and start a conversation.
Ask about the “why,” not just the “where.” You’ll discover that the best way to live here isn’t by mastering an app, it’s by building relationships.
Real life. Real people. Real Tahoe.
~ Tim Schroeder, DC, has lived in Tahoe City since 1980 and has practiced chiropractic care there since 1989. An active community member who values nature, he is an avid skier, hiker, and biker. To explore his chiropractic practice and his latest writing, visit the Insights tab at balancedoctor.com.
The Tahoe-Truckee Sanitation Agency is moving forward on a new wastewater treatment facility. The decision is a big pivot from the 2022 Master Sewer Plan, intended to guide the agency in addressing its aging infrastructure over
25 years.
The variable leading to this pivot? Covid-19 and its impacts on constructions costs and materials and labor shortages. When TTSA began receiving bids for various projects under the sewer plan, there were significant inconsistencies compared to the preliminary November 2021 estimates. That difference led to staff in early 2024 shifting from the rehabilitation strategy to implementation of a more modern replacement.
Which brings us to the Clean Water Revitalization Project, set to replace TTSA’s existing nutrient removal (or wastewater treatment) facility to the tune of $310 million. The rehabilitation plan in today’s numbers would cost, according to project consultant numbers, $393.3 million.
General Manager Jason Hays walks us through some key questions about the project, what it means, and how ratepayers — amid a significant rate increase — will be affected.
~ AH
In general terms, what is the Clean Water Revitalization Project?
Jason Hays, TTSA General Manager: Tahoe-Truckee Sanitation Agency (TTSA) is embarking on a multi-year initiative to modernize the existing wastewater treatment infrastructure that has been in existence for over 50 years. The Clean Water Revitalization Project is focused on modern treatment methods that will more reliably protect public health, the Truckee River, Lake Tahoe, and the surrounding watershed, while also improving system stability and ease of operation.
Did the following factors lead the agency to move forward with building a new wastewater treatment facility?
Aging TTSA nutrient-removal facilities, which require increasing maintenance to maintain operations
Significant cost increases from rehabilitation costs stated in a 2022 Master Sewer Plan
A desire to shift to less energy- and chemical-intensive processes for cleaning wastewater
The possibility of more stringent limits, monitoring, and reporting (TTSA could be regulated under the Federal NDPES permitting program in the future based on the U.S. Supreme Court’s “County of Maui v. Hawaii Wildlife Fund” case.)
These assumptions are accurate with a few minor caveats; while TTSA is seeking to establish a reduced dependence on chemicals and move toward a more biologically focused process, the new Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) facility is not likely to reduce energy usage. Throughout the design process, we will continue to remain open to opportunities for energy efficiency, but pumping water is an inherently energy intensive process. We are also closely watching opportunities for green energy offsets like solar and using biogas generated onsite for energy production.
Regarding potential future regulatory pressures, it’s important to note that TTSA is already subject to some of the most stringent discharge requirements in the country. At this time, there is no immediate reason to believe that the regulatory monitoring program under which we are regulated will change. Leadership within TTSA recognized during initial evaluations and continues to maintain the position that it is our responsibility to be prepared for any potential regulatory scenario. MBR technology offers both the most secure assurance to continue to meet existing limits and the strongest potential to expand capabilities if the discharge requirements become more stringent at some point in the future.
TTSA currently utilizes a Biological Nitrogen Removal (BNR) system but is looking to shift to an MBR system. Could you explain what this means?
Biological Nutrient Removal or Biological Nitrogen Removal (BNR) is the process of using a variety of microorganisms cultured specifically to consume nitrogen and phosphorus. TTSA is currently using a hybridized approach that requires a chemically intensive process to remove phosphorus in combination with BNR. Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) is a variation of BNR that uses very fine filter membranes to dramatically reduce the dependence on chemical processes. MBR also allows us to intensify the BNR process and use a much smaller footprint with improved automation and operational simplicity to accomplish the same or better levels of nutrient removal.
UP-AND-COMING: The Tahoe-Truckee Sanitation Agency is moving forward with a new wastewater treatment facility, which will replace current and aged infrastructure, shown highlighted in yellow on the map. Courtesy map
Where is the water coming out of this nutrient removal facility going to go?
Currently, we are planning to maintain the same discharge and disposal system for the new MBR facility that we currently have in place. TTSA currently injects the treated water from the facility into the ground in Martis Valley. The water migrates from the injection point through the ground toward the confluence of the Truckee River and Martis Creek where it comingles and joins the waterways. TTSA rigorously monitors several wells along the groundwater flow path and also monitors the Truckee River and Martis Creek above and below TTSA influence.
Does TTSA currently have any trouble meeting discharge requirements from the Lahontan Regional Water Quality Control Board?
TTSA consistently meets all discharge limits under its existing Waste Discharge Requirement (WDR) permit. While some of the processes used at TTSA are chemically intensive and require substantial operational and maintenance staffing, we have proudly protected Lake Tahoe and the Truckee River for over 50 years. A major driver for initiating the Clean Water Revitalization Project is to ensure future generations of community members and visitors can continue to rely on a high standard of public health and environmental protection for the next 50 years and beyond.
What is the total project cost?
In order to make the most fiscally responsible long-term decisions for the future of TTSA, staff engaged in a 50-year life cycle cost assessment comparing the cost of the Clean Water Revitalization Project to a progressive rehabilitation of the existing facility. While it is important to note that cost estimates used in this assessment are very high level and actual costs can vary significantly as the scope of the project becomes clearer, we believe the assessment strongly supported moving forward with the project. Currently estimated costs for the entire project are approximately $310 million. As design milestones are met, a clearer picture of actual final costs will become more focused. TTSA is committed to providing the rate-paying public with revised cost information as it becomes available.
In 2023, after no rate increases for the previous 12 years, TTSA approved a significant hike in customer bills (96.72% increase) over the course of four years (2024 to 2028) in order “to ensure proper funding for upcoming major capital projects and increasing costs due to hyper-inflation.” That increase happened before any final decisions on the new nutrient removal facility were made.
How will the new facility impact customer costs? What other funding sources is the agency considering for this project?
We at TTSA recognize that large increases to rates in a short timeframe are undesirable. This abrupt increase in rates was proceeded by 12 years of 0% rate increases, primarily due to a relatively minimal capital replacement plan. After the 2022 Master Plan established a more substantial capital plan with baseline cost assumptions and timing, TTSA staff recognized that current rates could not fully support the plan. In 2023 the TTSA Board approved Prop 218-compliant annual adjustments for fiscal years ’24 through ’28 to address long-term inflation and to fund the capital plan. The rate increases were as follows:
FY24: 30.1%
FY25: 18.6%
FY26: 13.6%
FY27: 8.6%
FY28: 3.4%
TTSA is currently seeking to perform a new rate study that includes timing and costs associated with the Clean Water Revitalization Project. Many projects identified in the master plan will be made unnecessary by the decision to move forward with MBR technology. Project and capital spending timing will also change substantially. Staff has engaged in a process of identifying strategic cost saving measures to ensure a continued focus on operational efficiency. As part of our funding strategy, we are exploring opportunities to fund portions of the project with grants and subsidized lending programs. Efforts are already underway to position the agency and the project as an attractive opportunity for potential alternative funding mechanisms.
What is the most critical information TTSA wants the public to know about this project and process?
We live and work in one of the most environmentally pristine and beautiful locations in the world. We owe the clarity of Lake Tahoe and the natural beauty of the Truckee River to those men and women 50 years ago that had the foresight and drive to do what was needed to rehabilitate and ensure the protection of these amazing water bodies. We believe that we have a generational responsibility to the people enjoying this area 50 years from now to guarantee protection of our water resources. In the 1970s the U.S. Congress enacted the Clean Water Act to reverse the damage done to our environment. We are welcoming in the next 50 years of environmental responsibility and public health with the Clean Water Revitalization Project.
Not considering my education after high school, my parents insisted that college was the next step. Growing up in New York, I headed to Florida to attend the University of Florida in Gainesville earning my BS degree in photojournalism. Not ready to get a real job, I hit the road, living out of a converted school bus, until I arrived in California four years later. I was so excited to learn that there was such a place as Tahoe where I could ski, a lifelong dream. That was the winter of ’94/’95. Working nights, traveling and skiing, I was pretty happy, but I really wanted to do more with my photography. In 2000, A Day In Your Life Photography began.
1 of 6
Nepal Bodhi Tree Foundation Trek
Alaska
Lakeview
Colette’s wedding
First hours
Rainbow over Tahoe
Documenting weddings and birth helped me with my pursuit of travel and bolstered my body of work in fine art photography. For wedding and birth imagery see the archive on my website: adiyl.net.
My current focus is capturing dream vacations for families. My motto is, “I’ll do the documentation while you enjoy your vacation.”
My travel and Tahoe photography will be featured at Made in Tahoe this Memorial Day Weekend at Palisades and the Kings Beach Art Tour in August. I’ll also be participating at the Tahoe City Farmers Market and Truckee Thursdays. Hope to see you there!
~ Instagram: adayinyourlifephotography, Facebook: A Day In Your Life Photography
Growing up, Mia Andler would spend weeks at a time during summer with her family sailing the Finnish archipelago — her days spent swimming and fishing, exploring caves and forests, inventing games with her siblings and the sea birds. She didn’t know how good she had it.
“I was lucky enough to spend my entire summers outside without electricity,” she reminisced. “I got to connect with the islands and feel the spacious timelessness of that.”
VILDA students practice tracking on a summertime excursion.
Those sailing trips, she says, gave her a “grounded psychological perspective” that led her to a nature-filled life and career. Andler is an expert forager, a heralded tracker and guide, an author, a wilderness educator, and founder of Vilda, a place-based wilderness education school whose mission is to connect kids with nature. First established in Marin County in 2008, Vilda has had a presence in Tahoe/Truckee since 2020 and now serves over 1,000 kids a year. The organization offers myriad school-year programs, summer camps, backpacking trips, and specialty workshops which can be found at vildanature.org.
The name Vilda comes from the name of the boat Andler sailed on as a child, short for Vildanden, Finnish for “wild duck,” symbolizing journey and exploration.
In addition to her summer-long sailing adventures, Andler’s Finnish upbringing was full of simply “being outdoors all the time.” However, she acknowledges that’s no longer a given for children anymore, even in the outdoor haven that is Tahoe.
THE FERAL FINN: Mia Andler, born in Finland, is an experienced naturalist, wilderness guide, author, and founder of the Vilda place-based wilderness schools.
“That’s why I started Vilda,” she said. “In today’s world, it’s not always safe or allowed [for kids] to go outside. So now they have us, some guides.”
And while just bringing youths out into the natural world is a vital aspect of what Vilda does — “we need to have the grounding aspect of nature and to know that we are a part of nature” — she also figures she should teach them some things while they’re out there.
Her curriculum is centered largely around adventure and play and offers an array of wilderness knowledge and skills. Students should expect to get their hands dirty as they track animals, learn bird languages and fire-starting skills, build shelters, identify and eat wild edibles, kayak, become good at reading maps, practice archery, tend to and restore the land, dabble in poetry and song, and create nature-based crafts.
Gratitude is a central tenet, and peaceful conflict resolution and friendship are also aspects of the Vilda education. Friendship, as a key rung of a wilderness school?
“Young people and screens are a major challenge right now,” said Andler, who has been featured in national print publications, in-flight magazines, television, and the documentary film Play Again. “They often don’t know how to connect with each other. You play a video game and you are instantly that character, you are instantly ‘in the game.’ You don’t have to cultivate that skill of ‘getting into the game.’”
CARVING OUT TIME: Vilda aims to connect children with nature and to help them realize “how much fun they can have with rocks and sticks.”
In addition to cultivating (or recultivating) human-to-human connection, a core motif of Vilda is creating (or recreating) connection to the earth.
“The kids’ world is so patterned by media images and gaming images that they don’t know anything else,” Andler explained. “Our job is to show them how much fun you can have with rocks and sticks.”
Once the child is having fun and beginning to see the forest through the trees, Vilda’s tertiary lessons come into play. Rather than simply holding an outdoor classroom where students learn the name of this tree or that flower, Andler aims for something more. “We focus on enhancing their relationship to nature,” she said. “We believe if we can help [our students] form a relationship with the forest, then they will become the leader that protects it.”
Andler relayed a conversation she had many years ago with the then-executive director of the Rainforest Alliance. The person, an American, grew up with love for her natural world and then literally had it ripped away. “She told me how when she was a child she used to play in a certain part of the forest, and then one day a bulldozer showed up and it was gone. That was her home, that was her playground.”
Seeing her local, childhood forest bulldozed to the ground led that human to fight to save forests all over the world.
It’s the same on many levels, Andler said. “If a kid loves the natural world,” she observed, “you don’t need to tell them to recycle. They’ll do it on their own.”
An Adventurous, Curious Life
After moving to Venezuela and then San Francisco (with some time back in Finland) due to her father’s job, Andler attended college in Maine, studied abroad in Scotland, and “traveled a fair bit” before moving to Tahoe/Truckee in the early 2000s. She earned her teaching credential from Sierra Nevada College and taught art and music at Lake Tahoe School. Early on, though, she felt like something was missing.
“I realized that I just wanted to be outside teaching students,” she said.
She had the idea to start a wilderness school — “it became my mission” — but she realized that in order to make it happen she still had a lot to learn.
As so often happens, her quest was rewarded by the teacher appearing along the path at just the right time. Andler’s Obi Wan Kenobi was Jon Young, a renowned naturalist teaching around Bolinas and Half Moon Bay at the time.
“We were out on the land three days a week in coastal chaparral and redwood forest,” Andler recalled. “We slept … underneath the stars, rain or shine.”
Young himself was the pupil of perhaps America’s most famous tracker and survivalist, the late Tom Brown Jr., who, among other notables, founded the esteemed Tracker School in the Pine Barrens of New Jersey. Brown was trained by an Apache, and Young speaks of time spent with the San bushmen of Botswana, among other peoples and training, as fundamental to his own education.
ROPING IT UP: A Vilda student makes cordage from natural material.
Andler learned all she could from Young (and from other individuals and cultures), and in 2008 started Vilda in Fairfax — the 7,000-plus person forest-abutting town in Marin County, with its six nearby open-space preserves and proximity to Mt. Tamalpais and Pt. Reyes. The school is still thriving, with Andler going down occasionally “mostly to train guides.”
Like Young and Brown Jr., Andler is also a speaker and an author, presenting at conferences and appearing on podcasts and having co-written The Bay Area Forager and penned the The Sierra Forager.
Again, it was her nature-oriented childhood and curiosity-driven lifestyle that led her to becoming an author.
“In Finland, foraging is still done,” she said. “I grew up picking berries and mushrooms and such as part of my family life. When I got to the Bay Area, I figured there must be something edible out there, it just wasn’t as obvious as Finland. So, I started asking around.”
She sought out people with similar interests and joined the board of Sustainable Fairfax, a nonprofit that was offering classes to the community.
“I was like, I think I could teach one about wild edibles,” Andler recounted. “The first one I ever scheduled old out, and I had people emailing me for months.”
She kept leading classes and guiding wilderness walks. The more she learned, the more she became aware of the fact that the available books weren’t detailing specific edible plants for specific areas of the region. “Everything was too broad,” Andler noted of the literature, and she and a friend saw a niche. “We were like, hey, let’s write the book.”
And so they did, and The Bay Area Forager was born.
“People received that book very well,” Andler said. “I love it when people still come up to me, and they’re some cool person doing some cool thing; and they’re like, ‘Oh my gosh, I love your book.’”
When she moved back up to North Tahoe for good during the pandemic and established Vilda’s local presence, the next book almost wrote itself.
“I wanted to call it The Taste of Tahoe or something, and make it super hyper local, but my publisher was like, no, too small.”
Though The Sierra Forager came to focus on wild edibles in Yosemite and Mammoth as well as Tahoe, its content stays true to its origins by pertaining exclusively to environments and locales above 6,000 feet in elevation (the Jewel of the Sierra rests at 6,225 feet).
So yeah, it’s been quite a journey for the self-described Feral Finn, Mia Andler. From summers sailing island-to-island without electricity to a life and career that seemingly goes wherever it wants, she continues to
do what she loves — spending time
in the wilderness to learn and to do and to be.
“To be honest, I never planned to
do any of it,” she revealed. “I just do the next thing. It’s been easy because it flows.”
Now there’s a lesson from nature if there ever was one.
In addition to teaching children through her school, Vilda, Mia Andler also leads wilderness activities and lessons for adults. She’s looking to expand her adult offerings and is curious what the community would like to learn and/or do. She encourages readers to reach out to her at thisferalfinn.com.
On having wilderness survival skills, Andler says: “It’s empowering knowing that if something did ever go very wrong, I have a freedom because I do have skills. It’s empowering even if there’s no emergency. You can pack less on your next camping trip, being confident in your fire-starting skills or your water-finding skills.”
Growing up in Truckee, Sierra Bohnet never thought she fit in.
“I didn’t vibe with the mountain culture at all,” she says. “I felt like I didn’t belong here.”
Post-high school, Bohnet left town and moved to Boston to attend Berklee College of Music. Upon changing majors from songwriting to music production, she released her fantasy-inspired debut EP “Ëradøn” in 2020.
Her first LP, Astral (2021), delved into the primal psyche of Gen Z, revealing a more complex side of the artist. Rather than writing from experience, Bohnet crafted the songs from her mind’s eye.
“My imagination is out of this world,” she says. “I like to collect magical things. I’m really into reading fantasy books. I’m creating my own world. I have a map. Each part of the map is a part of me.”
By 2023, Bohnet changed her stage name to Nomé Naku (no-may nah-koo). Like David Bowie becoming Ziggy Stardust or Beyoncé’s Sasha Fierce, it was a sign of a distinctive artistic vision beginning to coalesce.
RAISED IN TRUCKEE, fantasy-pop songwriter and producer Sierra Bohnet has found her artistic vision in Los Angeles as Nomé Naku.
“It’s a little bit both me and a character,” Bohnet shares. “I feel it’s me at my purest form, and that’s also a persona I can step into.”
After Berklee, Bohnet moved to Los Angeles, where she now lives in Burbank nearby Universal Studios.
“I chose L.A. for the music industry,” she says. “I’m still figuring it out. I made a few cool connections so far, nothing crazy. If anything, it’s taught me that I can do what I want to do from anywhere.”
Bohnet has collaborated with artists like Saint Mesa, zfromthealphabet, Shrimpnose and Cloudchord, lending grace, power, and depth to their work. But 99% of the time, she works alone.
“I am self-produced,” she says. “It’s a big part of my artistic identity. The whole sound is crafted by me.”
The music’s swirling and expansive yet precise aural tapestries seem woven from the ineffable threads of her primordial being. Based on the raw range of emotions felt in the music, it’s clear that it’s not always easy stepping into the role. The fact that Bohnet is willing to connect with these feelings on such a deep level is a testament to her vision and courage — all made whole through her transformation into Nomé Naku.
When she’s not making music, Bohnet works as a pet groomer to help pay the bills. “I give dogs haircuts,” she laughs.
Bohnet also has an Instagram channel that alternates seamlessly from intense sonic-visual journeys to silly confessions about her wall of fairytale hand-drawings to the quirky intricacies of her makeup routine.
BOHNET WRITES and self-produces cinematic, evocative music inspired by her poignantly felt emotional world and vivid imagination. Photos courtesy Nomé Naku.
After the move to L.A., a two-year barrage of singles releases followed, eventually leading to the self-titled LP Nomé Naku (2025). The album cover features a red-lit image of Bohnet, shot from behind as she wears dragonfly wings with a fire burning inside her chest. The epic feel of the music rides lush-layered vocal harmonies, heavy synth melodies, and tribal percussion, evoking ethereal artists like Aurora, Banks, and Florence + the Machine.
“The new album is a little bit darker, a little more mature,” Bohnet says. “The theme is being a woman … I like my songs to work for whoever is listening. Here and there, I make it very specific, but generally I’ll write about the feeling itself.”
And where do these transcendent soundscapes come from?
“There are so many levels,” she says. “The first level is the actual inspiration for the music. I’m a highly sensitive person, so I feel very deeply. I need a way to channel that. In this lifetime, it’s been music.”
This year, she’s releasing singles in anticipation of her next LP. In the intricate music videos she produces for the songs, Bohnet undulates fluidly into her character — or maybe it’s just deeper within herself.
“It comes from nowhere,” she says. “I have no background in dance or any training whatsoever. That’s how I naturally move to my music.”
The artist recently scored a short film, Transcend the Sword. Some of the songs are sung in her own language, Laroo, for which she’s developed a personal dictionary.
“I have really vivid dreams where I am in different worlds,” she shares. “I had a dream where I witnessed the destruction of a planet in fast motion. Then I wake up and I’m like, ‘Where am I?’”
On weekends and breaks, Bohnet often travels back home to her roots at Lake Tahoe. It’s the place where the dreams began, at least in this world and lifetime.
“As soon as I’m no longer here,” she muses, “I realize — I am a mountain girl. I was raised in Tahoe, but I had to grow into my mountain-ness.”
Fire crews have started their bootcamps, red flag warnings have been issued across California, and for a month now, the sign at a Truckee Fire station on Donner Pass Road has been flashing the annual urge:
