Jaclyn Tain, Author at Tahoe Fund

Ultimate Tahoe Gift Guide: Get a Gift that Gives Back

December 5, 2025 by Jaclyn Tain

The holidays in Lake Tahoe are truly something special, with endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, memorable dining, and meaningful gifts your loved ones will cherish.

At the Tahoe Fund, we’re grateful to be supported by so many incredible local businesses that are committed to helping us improve the Lake Tahoe environment for all to enjoy. To make your holiday planning and shopping easier, we’ve curated a list of businesses that not only offer exceptional experiences and gifts, but also give back to the Lake we all love.

Learn more about our amazing “$1 for Tahoe” and corporate partners here.

SHOP IN TAHOE

From sweets and coffee to jewelry and cozy clothes, we have special gifts for everyone on your list

Dorinda’s Chocolates

Make this holiday extra sweet with Dorinda’s Chocolates! Handcrafted in the region by award-winning chocolatiers, Dorinda’s Chocolates delivers exceptional flavor with every bite. Foregoing trendiness in favor of incredible taste, their all-natural, fair-trade creations provide an indulgent yet ethical experience. Founded in 2007 in Dorinda’s Truckee kitchen, the business grew from her love of making chocolate-covered cherries to a full chocolate factory, now run by her son Dustin and a tight-knit team of six. With three retail locations across Reno and Truckee, Dorinda’s Chocolates make the perfect gourmet gift this season for anyone who loves luxurious, handcrafted treats.

Bluestone Jewelry

Since 2007, Bluestone Jewelry in Tahoe City has been a family-run destination for timeless treasures. Founded by Marc and Linda Bigelow after their favorite local jewelry store closed, the shop has grown into a 17-year adventure with the whole family involved, including their sons Aaron and Benton. Known for their exquisite selection, Bluestone Jewelry features pieces from local artists and designers, and offers custom jewelry perfect for gifting. This season, find the ideal sparkle for your loved ones and support a local Tahoe family business at the same time.

CA 89 Love Blue Collection

Born from a love of the Sierra and a passion for adventure, California 89 has been family-run since 2012. Founded by Lisa Gotts after trading the corporate world for the mountains, the brand offers hand-selected clothing, gear, and home goods inspired by the beauty of Highway 89. With pieces designed and curated by Lisa and her children, California 89 makes the perfect gift for anyone who loves the outdoors. Plus, with collections that give back to Tahoe’s forests, lakes, and trails, every purchase supports the region that inspires it.

Alpen Sierra Coffee

Serving Lake Tahoe and the greater Sierra Nevada region for 35 years. Offering Fair Trade and Organic certified coffee and tea, including the latest trends in microlot, process-modulation, and legacy variety coffee, Alpen Sierra Coffee has everything you want for the ultimate coffee aficionado. Enrich your or a loved one’s day. Visit their website alpensierracoffee.com, for holiday gift ideas and coffee subscriptions.

PLAY IN TAHOE

From boating on crystal blue waters to soaring above Lake Tahoe in the skies, we have something for the adventure lover in your life

Elevated Boat Club

Give the boating enthusiast in your life the gift of unforgettable moments on Lake Tahoe this holiday season with a membership to Elevated Boat Club. Members enjoy access to a fleet of premium boats with no towing, storage, or maintenance — just show up and spend time on the water with friends and family. Perfect for anyone who values experiences over things, with holiday specials including discounts, complimentary dues, and access to ski passes. Make this season extraordinary with the gift of lake adventures and effortless boating.

Tahoe Backcountry Alliance Membership

If you have a backcountry enthusiast in your life, then give the gift of adventure with a membership to TBA, supporting sustainable, human-powered access to Tahoe’s winter backcountry. Members help fund trailhead access, youth programs, and partnerships that keep our mountains open and accessible for everyone. Your gift also supports public transportation initiatives and conservation efforts that protect Tahoe’s backcountry for generations. And better yet, if you purchase a membership before December 31, your gift will help unlock a $10,000 donation from the Tahoe Fund to TBA! Just make sure to donate through this link: tahoefund.org/tahoebackcountry.

Mountain Lion Aviation

Since 2017, Mountain Lion Aviation has offered personalized charter flights and flight training in California. Perfect for travelers seeking flexibility, convenience, and a tailored experience, their services make every journey seamless and memorable. Give the gift of extraordinary travel with a Mountain Lion charter, whether for business, adventure, or a special getaway. Experience the sky in comfort and style this season.

Lake Tahoe Yoga

Nestled in the scenic Tahoe region, Lake Tahoe Yoga offers a serene sanctuary for mind, body, and spirit. From invigorating group classes to personalized therapeutic sessions, their offerings suit every level and need. Scheduled classes are open to the public, and full-time Tahoe residents can take advantage of a special $15 Resident Rate with proof of residence. Gift the experience of wellness, self-discovery, and connection to nature this season perfect for anyone seeking balance, relaxation, and renewal.

Clearly Tahoe

Treat someone special to an unforgettable clear kayak tour on Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear waters, where they’ll glide above stunning underwater landscapes and create memories that last a lifetime. Use code HOLIDAY2025 at checkout to save 20% on all gift card purchases—the perfect present for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone who deserves something extraordinary.

Superior Boat Repair and Sales

Serving Sacramento, Lake Tahoe, and Northern California, Superior Boat Repair & Sales offers new and preowned Nautique, Barletta Pontoon, and Regal boats, as well as Fliteboard Efoils. From sales and financing to service and customization, their team ensures a seamless boating experience. Give the gift of adventure on the water this season. Perfect for anyone ready to make waves and create unforgettable memories.

Grand Tahoe Charters

Enjoy all the luxury of the Grand Crafts and their timeless design while surrounded by the stunning deep blue waters of Tahoe. Morning trips to the beautiful east shore or Emerald Bay, or evening runs down the west shore are all options. With gift cards available, giving an unforgettable Lake Tahoe experience is easier than ever.

GATHER IN TAHOE

Look no further when decking out your holiday table, we have you covered!

Raley’s

Enjoy hassle-free holiday fun when you order Raley’s ready-to-eat party platters and trays! Delight in the flavors of freshly made sandwiches, sensational salads, indulgent desserts and much more. Preorder yours 24 hours in advance in the Deli or Bakery, on their app or at raleys.com.

Tahoe Artesian

Treat your guests to naturally filtered water this holiday season with Tahoe Artesian. Sourced from an ancient Sierra Nevada aquifer and sustainably replenished, each gorgeous bottle reflects a commitment to the planet and community. Perfect for anyone who values health, mindfulness, and quality in every sip. Celebrate the season with a gift that refreshes, reconnects, and inspires.

DINE IN TAHOE

From lakeside dining to historic downtown Truckee, we have amazing restaurant experiences for your favorite foodie

Riva Grill

Inspired by the elegance of the iconic Italian Riva runabouts, Riva Grill brings classic Lake Tahoe nostalgia to life with waterfront dining at its best. Set along the shoreline, it blends stunning views, exceptional cuisine, and the timeless spirit of vintage wooden boats. Give the gift of a memorable lakeside experience this season. Perfect for anyone who loves Wet Woody’s, great food, great views, and Tahoe’s rich maritime charm.

Gar Woods

Nestled on the historic shores of Carnelian Bay, Gar Woods blends classic Tahoe charm with the timeless elegance of vintage wooden boats. With stunning lake views and a warm, nostalgic atmosphere, it’s a favorite for waterfront dining and iconic cocktails. Give the gift of a true Lake Tahoe experience this season. Perfect for anyone who loves Wet Woody’s, great food, legendary vibes, and Tahoe’s rich boating heritage.

Bar of America

A true Truckee icon, Bar of America has been the town’s go-to gathering place for decades, known for its lively atmosphere, great food, and signature live music. Set in a historic downtown building, it blends old-school charm with the energy of a beloved local hangout. Give the gift of good times this season. Perfect for anyone who loves Wet Woody’s, great eats, great vibes, and a classic Truckee night out.

Lake Tahoe AleWorX

At Tahoe AleWorX, wood-fired pizza, craft beer, cocktails and epic scenery come together for an experience that feels uniquely Lake Tahoe. Their award-winning pizzas, chef-driven salads, and constantly evolving small bites keep things fresh, while self-serve craft beer taps and house-brewed favorites add to the fun. With live music, DJ sets, and vibrant nightlife across multiple locations — including their newest Reno spot with an expansive rooftop deck and The Alpine entertainment venue — AleWorX delivers good vibes, great flavor, and a lively atmosphere that keeps people coming back.

SKI IN TAHOE

No matter where you prefer to ski in Tahoe, your lift tickets or passes will give back to our environment!

Heavenly

Celebrate the season at Heavenly who is marking 70 years of unforgettable skiing and snowboarding fun. From epic terrain spanning two states to stunning Lake Tahoe views, Heavenly offers an experience for adventurers of all levels. Perfect for friends and family who love fresh powder, vibrant base areas, and high-energy mountain vibes. Make this holiday season memorable with the gift of adventure on the slopes.

Homewood

Experience Tahoe’s West Shore charm at Homewood, a classic ski area known for its stunning lake views and welcoming atmosphere. From powder-filled runs to scenic slopes, Homewood offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Ideal for skiers and snowboarders seeking an authentic Tahoe experience. Share the joy of winter on the mountain this holiday season.

Kirkwood

There is nothing like the high‑alpine adventure at Kirkwood, Tahoe’s hidden gem known for world-class snow and rugged terrain. With a unique microclimate (the “K‑Factor”), Kirkwood typically gets some of the driest, deepest powder in the region. The mountain’s steep ridgelines, cornices, and expert terrain reward seasoned riders, while quieter slopes and welcoming terrain give all-day skiing a peaceful rhythm. Perfect for anyone who craves serious skiing and a timeless mountain escape.

Mt. Rose

Have an adventure this holiday season at Mt. Rose, Tahoe’s premier ski destination. Boasting over 1,200 acres, 1,800 vertical feet, and the highest base elevation in the Reno/Tahoe region, Mt. Rose offers superb conditions and fast, convenient access. Perfect for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, it’s an unforgettable way to celebrate the season on the slopes. Share the thrill of fresh powder and mountain adventure with someone you love.

Northstar

Have the classic Tahoe mountain experience at Northstar Ski Resort, known for its scenic slopes, welcoming atmosphere, and vibrant village. From groomed runs to fun terrain parks and family-friendly adventures, Northstar offers something for every level and style. Perfect for skiers, snowboarders, and anyone looking to make lasting winter memories. Celebrate the season with breathtaking views, exciting runs, and the spirit of Tahoe on the slopes.

Palisades

Palisades Tahoe, home to 6,000 acres of legendary terrain is the perfect place to ski and ride this holiday season. From high-octane runs to relaxed, scenic slopes at neighboring Alpine, there’s something for every skier and snowboarder. Perfect for thrill-seekers and mountain explorers alike. Share the excitement of Tahoe’s ultimate winter playground this season!

STAY IN TAHOE

Choose from these incredible getaways and give the gift of a luxury Tahoe escape!

Edgewood Tahoe Golf Resort

Since 1968, Edgewood has offered world-class golf and lakeside luxury in the heart of Lake Tahoe. The Lodge, inspired by classic National Park retreats, provides unparalleled accommodations, award-winning dining, and a serene spa experience. Guests can now enjoy the Villa Suites, combining modern elegance with breathtaking lake and mountain views. Give the gift of unforgettable adventure and relaxation at one of Tahoe’s most iconic resorts.

Plumpjack Inn

A rustic, boutique hotel set amid the Sierra Nevada Mountains in North Lake Tahoe. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re a seasoned guest, their friendly staff will make you feel right at home. Winter or summer, spring or fall—it’s always outdoor season at their North Lake Tahoe resort.

Tahoe Luxury Properties

Family owned and operated since 1994 Tahoe Luxury Properties offer the area’s finest collection of exquisite vacation homes and beautiful family homes to enjoy for generations. From reservations to itineraries and crafted experiences, Tahoe Luxury properties will take care of the details while you relax and cherish your Tahoe Vacation.

Tahoe Getaways

Give the gift of a Lake Tahoe escape this holiday season with Tahoe Getaways, your guide to exceptional vacation rentals and property management. From cozy cabins to spacious mountain homes, their curated collection across North Tahoe and Truckee puts adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking scenery right at your doorstep. Perfect for anyone looking to experience Tahoe’s year-round beauty and outdoor activities. Make this season unforgettable with the gift of a Tahoe getaway.

Tahoe Mountain Properties

Give the gift of a luxurious Lake Tahoe escape with Tahoe Mountain Properties, specializing in high-end vacation rentals, ski leases, and personalized concierge services. Founded by Holly, whose expertise in luxury travel and deep knowledge of the Tahoe region ensures every stay is seamless and memorable, the team helps guests enjoy the mountains in comfort and style. Perfect for anyone seeking a refined, stress-free Tahoe experience with breathtaking views and top-tier accommodations. Make this holiday season unforgettable with the gift of a Tahoe mountain retreat.

Incline Lodge

Give the gift of a luxury Tahoe escape this holiday season with The Incline Lodge, Incline Village’s first boutique hotel. Combining sophisticated, laid-back style with warm hospitality, it’s the perfect base for exploring North Lake Tahoe’s beaches, trails, and world-class skiing. Ideal for anyone seeking unforgettable experiences and serene mountain luxury. Celebrate the season with the gift of relaxation, adventure, and lasting memories.

Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino

Experience the serenity of Hyatt’s mountain retreat in the heart of North Lake Tahoe. Trade the city lights for the magic of Tahoe’s star-filled skies. Indulge in elevated culinary journeys at their exceptional restaurants, relax and rejuvenate with immersive, tailored wellness experiences at their spa, and discover nature-inspired adventures unique to the area. Whether hiking scenic trails, unwinding in their warm and timeless accommodations, or savoring local flavors, every moment is designed to help you truly be in Tahoe.

LEAVE YOUR LEGACY IN TAHOE

Give the gift that will last a lifetime with a custom engraved plaque in honor of your loved ones!

Name on Donor Wall

Add the name of your loved one to the East Shore Trail donor wall and help fund the next section of trail from Sand Harbor to Secret Harbor. All donations of $100 or more will be recognized on our next donor wall.

Trout Plaque

Leave a legacy with an engraved trout-shaped plaque that will be displayed on the East Shore Trail. All funds raised from plaques go directly to expansion and maintenance of the East Shore Trail.

Bear Plaque

Leave a legacy with an engraved bear-shaped plaque that will be displayed in Tahoe City. All funds raised from plaques go directly to maintaining trails in North Lake Tahoe, California.

Header photo by Brad Scott

Exploring the Magic of Taylor Creek

October 16, 2025 by Jaclyn Tain

Leaf peeping and wildlife viewing are on everyone’s agenda this fall, and the Taylor Creek Visitor Center is one of the best places for it! Located on the South Shore of Lake Tahoe, Taylor Creek Visitor Center welcomes more than 150,000 visitors every year. For many, it’s their very first introduction to the magic of Tahoe. For locals, it’s a cherished place to return to season after season.

Over the years, the Tahoe Fund has supported numerous projects at this beloved site. One highlight was the addition of a new boardwalk and overlook in 2017. The overlook was thoughtfully designed to provide visitors with an accessible viewing area while keeping everyone a safe distance from bears and other wildlife.

The Stream Profile Chamber is one of Taylor Creek’s most iconic features, giving visitors the ability to experience an underwater view of the creek’s vibrant ecosystem. Each school year, the Visitor Center welcomes more than 150 students a day, bringing classroom lessons to life through an up-close look at aquatic ecology.

When the chamber’s glass broke in May 2018, the chamber had to be closed until funding could be secured for repairs. Thanks to our partners at Tahoe Blue Vodka, we were able to step in and help bring this unique Tahoe treasure back to life.

Taylor Creek also has four trails with interpretive panels about the region’s rich cultural and environmental history. By 2022, the original panels from 1999 had become worn and weathered. Thanks to our amazing donors and partners, 23 brand new panels and displays were installed. These were also transcribed and recorded into the Basin’s first trilingual audio tour, available on the TravelStorys platform in Spanish, English and Washoe.

Thanks to donors like you, this special place continues to inspire curiosity, connection, and care for our local environment. The next time you visit, know that your support of the Tahoe Fund has helped ensure that Taylor Creek remains a place for everyone to experience the magic of Lake Tahoe.

A Summer of Adventure for Tahoe Youth

September 30, 2025 by Jaclyn Tain

This summer, over 60 kids from South Lake Tahoe spent their days climbing, golfing, and even attending a sleep-away camp as part of the Boys & Girls Club of Lake Tahoe’s Summer Adventure program. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, this program helped open the doors to new experiences right here in Lake Tahoe:

Weekly classes at Blue Granite Climbing Gym introduced youth to the thrill of indoor climbing.
First Tee lessons at Bijou Golf Course gave participants their first taste of life on the green.
A teen sleep-away camp brought together 25+ kids for three days of outdoor fun, teamwork, and lifelong memories.

By removing financial barriers, this program ensured children of all backgrounds could explore Tahoe’s outdoors together in a safe, supportive environment. Along the way, they built confidence, self-esteem, and a deeper connection to nature.

Together, we’re giving Tahoe’s youth life-changing opportunities and helping them create memories they will carry forever.

Thank you for making this impact possible.

Deep Dive ROV Livestream Questions Answered

September 17, 2025 by Jaclyn Tain

Questions from our viewers get helpful answers from Dr. Sudeep Chandra.

Did you know that Lake Tahoe holds 39 trillion gallons of water?

This was just one of the incredible facts we learned during our livestream to the bottom of Lake Tahoe on September 5, 2025 via remote operated vehicle.

We were joined by an amazing panel of experts who made this deep dive possible:

Lindsay Kopf – Founder & Executive Director of Restoring the Lake Depths Foundation, who piloted the ROV all the way to the lakebed at a depth of nearly 1,600 feet
Tim Crandle – President of SeaView Systems, who shared the innovative technology that powered our descent
Sudeep Chandra – Foundation Professor of Limnology at the University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe, who explained the science behind Tahoe’s legendary clarity

Throughout the event, we received dozens of fascinating questions from you, our audience. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to answer all of them during the livestream. But we didn’t want to leave them unanswered. Here are some of those questions and helpful answers from Dr Chandra:

Destinee asked: Is it true that there are elephants at the bottom of Lake Tahoe?

Dr. Chandra: To my knowledge there are no elephants at the bottom of the Lake.

Kathleen asked: What is the water temperature down at fifteen hundred feet?

Dr. Chandra: The deep waters of Tahoe are typically around 39-42 degrees Fahrenheit (4-5 degrees Celsius). So very cold! Typically, our deep lakes in our temperate climate, have colder water on the bottom and warmer water towards the surface which is warmed from the sun’s energy.

Steve asked: Do any species of fish live in Lake Tahoe? What are the white dots we are seeing on the video?

Dr. Chandra: There are 18+ fish species that have been found and have lived in Lake Tahoe. Fishes can live in different habitats. Scientists have observed fishes in the very deep waters of Tahoe (1600 feet) but they are rare. The fishes mostly live between 1 to 300 feet below the surface. Interestingly, the nonnative gamefish called lake trout (common name mackinaw) use the deep water mounds (60-150 feet below the surface) in Lake Tahoe for reproduction and spawning.

The ROV was moving through the water, illuminating the flocculent material at the bottom. Flocculent material is comprised of sediments from the watershed, dead algae, organic and inorganic matter that has settled towards the lake bottom but partially suspended in the water. We may also have observed invasive mysid shrimp that live along the lake bottom during part of their life cycle.

Tom asked: So if cold water is heavier and would sink to the bottom, how does the 5-7 year mixing of warm and cold water occur?

Dr. Chandra: Mixing in lakes is a fun topic! Lake Tahoe mixes from shallow to mid depths every year however it is considered a meromictic lake, or a lake that mixes infrequently or perhaps never mixes from the top to the very bottom of the lake. Mixing water from the shallow to the deepest depths occurs every 4-7 years when the intense cooling of the shallow waters in winters and intense wind energy comes together to overcome density differences in water so the lake can completely mix.

Teri asked: We’ve been going to Tahoe for 40+ years and have noticed recently that we’ve actually been able to swim in it and it hasn’t been as cold as when we were younger. Is this due to “mixing” that you just discussed? I used to not be able to even keep my toes in at the shoreline.

Dr. Chandra: The nearshore indeed has warmed and will continue to warm due the changes in climate. Scientific information shows that nighttime air temperatures are increasing in the Tahoe basin and “the growing season” is getting longer as there is early snow melt in Spring and the snow pack arrives towards the end of Fall into winter. All of these factors drive the warming of the nearshore surface waters. The warming not only will allow you to dip your toes in the nearshore but can lead to the establishment and movement of warmwater favoring, invasive species like warmwater fishes (e.g. bass, bluegill) or enhancing the densities of invasive clams. Here are some science papers that tackle the connection between climate change, warming and the changes in the ecology of the lake including biological invasions.

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10584-013-0695-6

https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2310075121

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/9781118470596.ch15

http://www.aquaticinvasions.net/2008/AI_2008_3_1_Kamerath_etal.pdf

Steve R. asked: What are the “crater” like things we’re seeing at the bottom? Is there much of any current at the bottom? Or is the water pretty still?

Dr. Chandra: The little “basin and range” looking features at the bottom are sediments that are placed along the bottom. The formation of these sediments are due to the settling of material but also the gentle currents at the bottom of the lake that move some of the sediments. There is likely no major, long standing current at the bottom but just enough to resettle and move the sediments. Much like a little bit of breeze can move dust on a table. So I would say the water is pretty still but still gently moves along the lake bottom.

Jack Asked: Why are there so many air bubbles down at that depth?

Dr. Chandra: What we were seeing is likely more of the sediment that looked like bubbles as they approached the ROV camera. Some of the material on the bottom is organic so bacteria will use the carbon on that organic matter as an energy source and will produce carbon dioxide bubbles on the sediment surface and the water column. This gas can eventually move into the water column and may eventually be released in the atmosphere as it diffuses through the column or is mixed through larger mixing processes. This is why lakes can be net emitters of greenhouse gasses like carbon dioxide and methane.

Bruce asked: What kind of scouring or flows are happening down there that is creating these shallow divots in the soft sediments?

Dr. Chandra: There is likely no major, long standing current at the bottom but just enough to resettle and move the sediments much like a little bit of breeze can move dust on a table.

Bill asked: How deep is the sediment on the bottom of the lake? It looks like soft sand, is it?

Dr. Chandra: Most of the sediment along the deep bottom of the lake is made up of inorganic (non living) and organic (living) material. The inorganic material is made up of the granitic-like material deposited into the Lake from the watershed. The organic material is from the settling phytoplankton (algae that grow in the water column) to the bottom of the lake due to a physical law called Stokes Law. Other organic matter can include the algae and plants that grow along the nearshore edge of the Lake, and to a lesser extent the animals that live in the lake that eventually are transported and settle to the lake bottom. In lakes typically sedimented organic and inorganic matter is focused due to physical and gravitational forces to the deepest part of the lake through a process called sediment focusing.

Paleolimnologists take cores of sediments from the deep center of lakes to reconstruct the history of lakes over time. Basically, the deepwater sediments contain reservoirs of history since the origin of the lake. Two prominent paleolimnologists, Dr. Alan Heyvaert (Desert Research Institute) and Paula Noble (University of Nevada), have taken cores from the deepest part of the Lake to recreate the history of the Lake. Some of these cores were over 100 feet long and they still didn’t collect all of the sediment at the bottom.

The cores show:

Past geological events: For example, the layer of ash from the eruption of Mount Mazama (which formed Crater Lake) that occurred approximately 8,000 years ago. This distinctive layer provides a crucial reference point for dating the other sediments.
Past landslides: The cores suggest a massive underwater landslide occurred in the Lake sometime before 12,000 years ago, based on the sediment layers.
Historical human impact: For example, the extensive logging during the Comstock era and improvements in Lake water quality and reduced sedimentation to the bottom as a result of the control of landuse development since the 1970s.

Can you imagine a 100 feet of sediments that are recording the history of the lake?

Here are some science papers about the paleoscience that has been conducted in our Tahoe basin lakes by Drs. Heyvaerts, Noble and others.

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10933-017-9961-3

https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/es991309p

Ted asked: While SCUBA diving in Lake Tahoe near Meeks Bay, I periodically noticed little white calcified hemispheric nodules in the sand at 11m depth. I collected a few and posted them to iNaturalist thinking they were biologic in nature. But, I suspect they may be hydrologic/geologic in origin. Can anyone there shed any light to this curious, amateur, scientist?

Dr. Chandra: Hard to say without seeing the photos. But we can find calcified round structures on the bottom which are the internal parts of the invasive coldwater, signal crayfish. Are these the nodules you are seeing?

https://museum.wa.gov.au/explore/blogs/andrew-hosie/why-freshwater-crayfish-don-t-need-milk-healthy-bones

Justin asked: There was a small animal swimming by when you were discussing Jacques Cousteau. It moved like a shrimp. What was it? Thanks for sharing the livestream.

Dr. Chandra: Yes! We see both invasive mysid shrimp and native gammarus and chironomid (midge fly) species in the deep water. Mysid shrimp were introduced in the 1960 to augment the food for the nonnative game fishes. Turns out these shrimp can migrate each day from the top 60 feet to 1500 feet below the surface. As they migrate they feed on native plankton and eat sediments and particles that settle on the Lake bottom potentially acting as a biological pump of nutrients back into the water column. Although this concept needs to be explored more by scientists which takes additional resources. Dr. Charles Goldman, the founder of Lake Tahoe lake science, thought there could be two populations of shrimp. One population that lives along the deep Lake bottom while others may migrate. I observed deep water populations at 1600 feet in the late 1990s as part of the project and these shrimp were a clear translucent color compared to a pinkish color for the migrating shrimp. This concept also needs to be explored further and could be an excellent exploration for training the next generation of scientists who want to conserve the Lake. There is still so much that can be explored about the biology and sediments of the Lake bottom and how it connects to the Lake’s fragile clarity.

This journey to the bottom of Lake Tahoe was more than just an exciting exploration; it was a reminder of how much there is still to learn about this extraordinary place. From the tiny shrimp that migrate thousands of feet each day to the sediments that hold a record of thousands of years of Tahoe’s history, every detail of the Lake tells a story worth learning more about.

Thanks to our incredible panel of experts, our donors, and everyone who joined us with such thoughtful questions, we are one step closer to understanding Tahoe’s mysteries and to inspiring the next generation of scientists and stewards who will help improve the Lake Tahoe environment for all to enjoy.

Can a Summer Job Change a life?

September 16, 2025 by Jaclyn Tain

For dozens of local high school students each year, the answer is a resounding yes.

Through Generation Green, an eight-week work-study program run by the U.S. Forest Service and the Great Basin Institute, students trade their usual summer routines for hard hats, hiking boots, and hands-on conservation work in the forests of the Lake Tahoe Basin.

But Generation Green is about far more than just a summer job.

This program introduces young people to careers in natural resource management, builds their leadership skills, and fosters a lifelong connection to the environment. Many participants describe it as a transformative experience, one that changes how they see themselves and the world around them.

For many of these students, this is their first real opportunity to explore the outdoors. Beyond professional development, they learn how to responsibly recreate in Tahoe’s forests, taking part in activities like backpacking and hiking that become cornerstones of their summer.

The impact speaks for itself:

209 Students have successfully gone through the program since 2008
191 have gone on to higher education
6 Alumni have full-time permanent positions in the Forest Service

These numbers tell a powerful story: Generation Green is cultivating the next generation of environmental stewards and community leaders. Students leave the program with a deep appreciation for nature and a clear sense of purpose; many choose to build careers in natural resources, public service, or nonprofit work, including our very own Outreach Coordinator, Jaclyn Tain.

At Tahoe Fund, we’re proud to support this extraordinary program and the life-changing opportunities it provides. Thanks to our donors, we can continue to help students gain the skills, confidence, and inspiration they need to be leaders today, tomorrow, and forever.