Clean Up The Lake Completes Tahoe Deep Dive Pilot Project
Nonprofit organization Clean Up The Lake (CUTL) has successfully finished its Tahoe Deep Dive Pilot Project, focused on investigating litter buildup and aquatic health 35 to 55 feet below Lake Tahoe’s surface.
Project Overview and Methods
The team employed Diver Propulsion Vehicles and Nitrox technology to enhance diver efficiency and safety during underwater data collection. These advanced techniques supported a thorough cleanup and research effort aimed at informing larger future underwater operations.
Project Duration and Volunteer Involvement
- Held from February to July 2025
- 14 cleanup days with 29 dives conducted
- 26 unique volunteers participated
- 80 volunteer shifts completed
- Total of 480 volunteer hours spent underwater and onshore
Cleanup Results
The team removed a total of 1,933 pounds of litter, comprised of 1,042 individual items, along 6.1 miles of lakebed and 4.75 miles of Placer County shoreline.
- 248 glass bottles
- 21 anchors
- Various metal, plastic, and recreational debris
Preliminary Findings
Preliminary data analysis suggests that if debris concentrations found in this pilot area are consistent around Lake Tahoe, there could be more than 29,000 pounds of litter and 17,000 items remaining at similar depths across the lake.
These findings highlight a significant underwater pollution issue that requires ongoing attention and action.
Author’s Summary
The pilot project demonstrates innovative methods in underwater cleanup, revealing substantial litter below Lake Tahoe's surface and emphasizing the need for sustained environmental efforts.