Lake Tahoe EIP

Lake Tahoe East Shore Asian Clam and Metaphyton Delineation and Control

Project Number
04.01.01.0171
Action Priority
Conduct Applied Scientific Research
Implementers
UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center
Supporting Agencies
Nevada Tahoe Resource Team – Nevada Division of State Lands, UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center
Primary Contact
Katie Senft (kjsenft@ucdavis.edu)

Stage
Post-Implementation
Duration
2022 - 2024
Total Project Cost
$101,790
Funding Request
$0
Science Program Conduct Applied Scientific Research
The expanse of non-native Asian clam populations with the concurrent appearance of metaphyton (unattached algae) along Lake Tahoe’s east shore beaches has become an increasing concern. Due to the high nutrient concentrations from clam excretions and their stimulatory effect on algal growth, nuisance algae is starting to accumulate underwater and on beaches having negative aesthetic impacts. Five beaches were surveyed in summer 2023, using SCUBA and UAV imagery, to delineate the extent and density of Asian clams and any associated metaphyton growth. A metaphyton removal pilot study to determine the effectiveness of removing metaphyton algae before contaminating beaches was conducted.

Targeted Performance Measures

  • Acres of Invasive Species Inventoried

Threshold Categories

  • Recreation
  • Water Quality
Diver using an underwater suction device to remove metaphyton off plants bed near Lakeside Beach and Marina. 
(Timing: During) (~6,930 KB)
Credit: Brandon Berry Diver using an underwater suction device to remove metaphyton off plants bed near Lakeside Beach and Marina.

Location

Targeted Funding

Secured Funding: Lake Tahoe License Plate Prog... (NDSL), $69,822

Secured Funding: UC Davis Tahoe Environmental ... (TERC), $31,968

Photos

During
UC Davis research diver removes metaphyton from Tahoe's lake bed using surface supported suction removal device. 
(Timing: During) (~8,758 KB)
Credit: Brandon Berry
UC Davis research diver removes metaphyton from Tahoe's lake bed using surface supported suction removal device.

Project Fact Sheet Data as of 06/16/2024