invasive species

New research by scientists at the University of Nevada, Reno found that cold temperatures and lack of food combine to discourage reproduction of Asian clams in the lake.

"This could be good news. It really could be," said Sudeep Chandra, a UNR researcher specializing in freshwater science.

"The fact is Lake Tahoe has a few things going for it when it comes to this invasive species spreading around," Chandra said.

Diminished ability to reproduce could mean that efforts to manage clam populations — including killing them by covering clam beds with rubber mats — have a better chance at long-term success, Chandra said.

"The question is, at what rate do they grow? If they are outgrowing what you manage, the problem will keep coming back," Chandra said.

Regional officials are touting the effectiveness of a comprehensive watercraft inspection program in preventing the introduction this year of aquatic invasive species into the pristine waters of Lake Tahoe.

Watercraft inspectors managed by the Tahoe Resource Conservation District, in cooperation with Tahoe Regional Planning Agency, performed more than 8,000 boat inspections during the 2010 boating season, officials revealed this week, and a total of 19,000 watercraft launches occurred with Tahoe-specific inspection seals.

Of those numbers, 11 watercraft containing aquatic invasive species were intercepted and decontaminated, officials confirmed

Save the Date! September 27-29, 2011 at DRI.The purpose of this symposium is to communicate, investigate and evaluate science along the river.

Discussions will provide an understanding of Truckee River's important role in supporting northern Nevada and eastern California, while serving as a valuable resource to others who utilize the river. One element of this program is to provide all groups who work within the watershed a comprehensive understanding of what their colleagues are doing, and to bring critical Truckee River issues to the table for discussion. Drought, water quality, water resources, technical considerations and ecological elements will be discussed, with a mix of research, environmental, management and recreational perspectives included.