Washoe Tribe selected for Meeks Bay Resort concession at Lake Tahoe
The USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit is pleased to confirm the selection of the Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California as the concessionaire for Meeks Bay Resort on Lake Tahoe’s West Shore.
Tentative selections were announced in July 2023 and were subject to an administrative appeal by those who submitted proposals pursuant to 36 CFR Part 214. The LTBMU recognizes the excellent management the Washoe Tribe has provided at Meeks Bay and is excited to continue our support for the collaborative partnership going forward.
“Continuing to maintain stewardship and management over one of our original Wá∙šiw (Washoe) homesite is a great feeling! Our ancestors used this land for thousands of years before us, and we are now assured that our current generation of Waší∙šiw (Plural form: Washoe’s) will continue to care for the land and water at MaɁyála Wáta (Meeks Bay),” said Washoe Tribe Chairman Serrell Smokey.
The Washoe Tribe has managed the resort under a special use permit since 1998, and submitted the most competitive proposal for management of the resort that provides the best benefit to the public. The Meeks Bay Resort concession encompasses government-owned facilities and improvements on the north and south sides of Meeks Creek, including the General Store and Visitor Center; north and south campgrounds; eight cabins, Lake Front Lodges; the Kehlet Mansion; Meeks Bay House and Studio; snack bar; beach rental building; and day-use area.
“We are pleased to continue our relationship with the Washoe Tribe at Meeks Bay Resort,” said Forest Supervisor, Erick Walker. “Publicly owned recreation facilities help inspire and educate all visitors to take pride in their public lands and to play an active role in taking care of them for the benefit of current and future generations.”