Tahoe Pier Ban Could Be Lifted

A 16-year ban on new piers at Lake Tahoe could be lifted under a proposal to be unveiled next year by the agency charged with protecting the lake´s environment.

The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency is expected to release a draft environmental impact study on proposed shoreline regulations by March.

The California-Nevada agency has enforced the building ban on new piers in prime Tahoe fish habitat since 1987. The prohibition covers most of the huge Sierra lake´s shoreline.

Some property owners have called for the lifting of the ban, citing a series of studies that found piers are not detrimental to fish. But they acknowledge the debate will not only focus on impacts to fish but on how piers affect Tahoe´s scenery.

Environmentalists say they want a balanced plan that protects Tahoe´s environment while ensuring recreational opportunities.