Pacific Southwest Research Station

Evaluation of nearshore ecology and aesthetics

Principal Investigators:
Rick Susfalk, Desert Research Institute
Sudeep Chandra, University of Nevada-Reno
Alan Heyvaert, Desert Research Institute
John Reuter, University of California-Davis
Geoff Schladow, University of California-Davis
Marion Wittmann, now at University of Notre Dame
Scott Hackley, University of California-Davis

Proposal [pdf]

Final Report Executive Summary [pdf]
Final Report Sections 1-12 [pdf]
Final Report Sections 13-16.1 [pdf]
Final Report Sections 16.2-21 [pdf]
Final Report Appendix A [pdf]
Final Report Appendix B [pdf]
Final Report Attachment 1 [pdf]
Final Report Attachments 2 and 3 [pdf]
Slides, Final Presentation to the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency [pdf]

Please contact Dr. Alan Heyvaert with questions regarding the final report.

Project Summary

Changes in nearshore conditions at Lake Tahoe have become evident to both visitors and residents of the Tahoe Basin, with increasing stakeholder interest in managing the factors that have contributed to apparent deterioration of the nearshore environment. This has lead to joint implementation of a Nearshore Science Team (NeST) and the Nearshore Agency Working Group (NAWG), which together have contributed to a synthesis review of nearshore information and the development of a monitoring and evaluation plan that will track changes in nearshore conditions. A conceptual model is presented that conveys a contemporary understanding of the factors and activities that affect desired nearshore qualities.

Results from review and analysis of historical data are provided, as well as an assessment on the adequacy of existing nearshore standards and associated indicators. The resulting nearshore monitoring framework will be used to guide development of an integrated effort that tracks the status and trends associated with nearshore conditions.