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Tolerance for lead
The EPA has set the Maximum Contaminant Level Goal for lead in drinking water at zero. Lead is harmful to humans and animals, even at low exposure levels.
Get the Lead Out
of Lake Tahoe
Join the initiative to protect Lake Tahoe by removing lead cables that pose a threat to our fresh waters.
32,940 feet
Length of cables
Miles of old, deteriorating lead cables lie unused and decomposing on the bottom of Lake Tahoe.
+2 million
People
Lake Tahoe welcomes over 2 million people each year, in addition to the +50k incredible residents who call it home and make it such a special place.
We don’t want lead in Lake Tahoe
While Lake Tahoe’s ecosystem is subject to a range of risks, these lead cables pose a unique threat to water quality. Lead is insoluble and could irreparably contaminate our waters, negatively impacting residents, recreation and wildlife. While its unfortunate these cables contain lead, they have not been used for decades making their removal straightforward.
Where are the cables?
The length of these cables spans nearly 10% of the Lake Tahoe shoreline. From Baldwin Beach to Rubicon Bay, they cross the mouth of world famous Emerald Bay. This area of the lake is known for swimming, boating and fishing. You've probably been where the cables are without even knowing.
Worse with time
These lead cables deteriorate with each passing year, increasing the chances of irreversible contamination. Their presence leaves Lake Tahoe vulnerable to unforeseen events - anchor drops, shifting boulders, earthquakes - that could escalate the situation to an emergency.
It’s not a risk we should take into perpetuity.
Removal is possible
The good news is that removing these lead cables from Lake Tahoe is achievable. Government agencies have previously provided all permits required for removal. Engineering firms that specialize in underwater projects are standing by willing to do the hard work.
By coming together as a community, signing the petition and supporting removal - we can get this lead out!
A lead-free legacy
Breakthrough environmental initiatives can be achieved by people coming together. There are many complex issues in our world, but this is not one of them. We have the opportunity to keep our waters safe and preserve Lake Tahoe for generations to come.
Join the movement
Turn your love for Lake Tahoe into Action by supporting cleaner waters for all.
Have questions? Book a meeting.
Push for removal
Add your name to our growing list of those standing up for a cleaner Lake Tahoe. Every signature counts.
Support the movement
State your intent to contribute to this project to remove the lead cables.