Meeks Bay

A 30-day comment period has begun by the U.S. Forest Service on a plan that would require proper storage of food and refuse at developed recreation sites in Lake Tahoe Basin.

The Environmental Assessment for a proposed Forest Order would require use of bear-resistant dumpsters and food lockers designed to prevent access by wildlife. The reason: Bears are attracted to anything edible or scented. Improper storage of human food sources and refuse is a leading cause of human-bear conflict, according to the Forest Service.

Some recreational areas around Lake Tahoe will be opened early for the 2014 season, the U.S. Forest Service announced Monday. Inspiration Point, Logan Shoals, Chimney Beach, and Secret Harbor open April 21 and Sawmill Pond and the Sandpit OHV areas open May 1. Baldwin Beach and Nevada Beach and Campground open May 9.

U.S. Forest Service fuels management crews will conduct prescribed fire operations near Taylor Creek on Lake Tahoe’s South Shore and on Alice Lane in the Meeks Bay area of the West Shore, Friday, Oct. 26. Each area is approximately one-quarter acre. On Sunday, Oct. 28, prescribed fire operations will take place in the Timberland area of the West Shore, weather permitting.

Here is this week's fishing report for rivers, lakes and streams in Nevada, Northern California and the Sierra. This report is for the week of Oct. 17-24.

The closure of some U.S. Forest Service recreational facilities around the Lake Tahoe Basin has begun. Campgrounds and day-use areas traditionally close around mid-October. While forest roads typically close around mid-November, you may consult the Motor Vehicle Use Map for specific dates by going here. The Taylor Creek Visitor Center will remain open through October, according to a news release.

Summer officially kicks off in North Lake Tahoe Memorial Day Weekend with the 6th Annual Opening Day at the Lake.
This four-day special event is Friday, May 25 to Monday, May 28, and is comprised of celebrations and festivities along the West Shore and the North Tahoe region. This event is produced by Lake Tahoe’s West Shore Association.

Recognized for stewardship and care taken in the building and construction of developments around Lake Tahoe, the 22nd annual Best in the Basin awards were announced Tuesday by the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency.
The TRPA, which sets policy for development around Lake Tahoe, will recognize the winners, listed below, during the 2011 Best in the Basin awards presentation during the meeting of its Governing Board on Wednesday, Feb. 22 in Stateline. Go here for the agenda.