Whether you are new to the area or a long time local, you hear a lot of chatter about the Lake Tahoe Governmental Agencies existing in the area with the purpose to preserve the quality of Lake Tahoe. There are a few, and they all serve different needs, so it can be very hard to keep track. When purchasing real estate in the area, it is beneficial to know who does what and why. So without further ado, here is an informal introduction to the South Lake Tahoe government agencies.
The California Tahoe Conservancy
Also known as the CTC, this agency plays a key role in not only the conservation of our area, but also restoring natural resources while protecting as well. It strives hard to create a balance between our natural beauty and the humans that inhabit it as their playground. Since the doors opened in 1985, the Conservancy has obtained over 6,500 acres solely for the purpose of promoting lake access and public recreation while protecting the natural environment. Additionally, the CTC has given 170 grants to non-profits and local government agencies to do the same thing. Truly, the conservancy has been a huge factor in reducing fuel hazards, restoring major wetland areas and funding construction for hundreds of projects totaling over $450 million.
The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency
The TRPA is probably one of the most talked about agencies in town and operates under the authority of California and Nevada. Additionally, this agency operates under the federal government through the Bi-State Compact created by congress and signed by the United States Presidents. While the TRPA works closely with a variety of organizations, private property owners, agencies and partnerships, this compact establishes the TRPA has the environmental standards leader in the Lake Tahoe basin. Directing the decisions of the TRPA is a governing board made up of 15 members and an advisory planning commission made up of 21 members. There are also several stakeholders and public members. The top priorities of the TRPA are to improve our communities and the human interaction with our surrounding environment while restoring, enhancing and preserving at the same time.
The California Conservancy Corps
The CCC works throughout California for a variety of project sponsors including federal and state agency’s, non-profits, private industry and city and county agencies with the goal of enhancing or conserving California’s natural resources and providing recreational benefits to the public. The sponsoring agency usually provides all the materials, specifications, technical plans as well as on site supervision. Originally created in July 1976, the California Conservation Corps is one of the largest, and oldest, state conservation corps in the U.S. While it started out as a very small operation, it has grown to its large size through both residential and non-residential sites throughout California. This agency is comprised of men and women aged 18-25 who work to protect and restore the environment of California.
