Latest news with #KeepTahoeBlue
Business Wire
10-07-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Zephyr Cove Resort Earns Environmental Accolades, Leads Fourth of July Cleanup at Lake Tahoe
PHILADELPHIA--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Zephyr Cove Resort, operated by Aramark Destinations, announced today a pair of major environmental achievements and the success of its July Fourth cleanup efforts – underscoring the resort's leadership in protecting Lake Tahoe's shoreline. Through award-winning environmental practices and impactful waste reduction initiatives, the resort continues to set the standard for clean beaches and responsible recreation. 'At Aramark, we believe that environmental responsibility is fundamental to delivering exceptional guest experiences, and we're proud to support places that inspire people to connect with the outdoors in meaningful ways,' said Sasha Day, President & CEO of Aramark Destinations. 'Zephyr Cove Resort's recent designations and holiday cleanup efforts reflect the kind of leadership and community spirit that help keep Lake Tahoe clean and cherished by all who visit.' Among Zephyr Cove Resort's latest milestones are two prestigious designations: Leave No Trace Gold Standard Hospitality Designation: The highest honor awarded to organizations that exemplify best practices in outdoor ethics and environmental education. This recognition highlights Zephyr Cove's leadership in minimizing ecological impact and promoting sustainable tourism. Tahoe Blue Beach Member Designation: As part of the pioneering Tahoe Blue Beach program launched by Keep Tahoe Blue, this designation recognizes Zephyr Cove's proactive role in reducing pollution, enhancing beach infrastructure, and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility. The program, developed in collaboration with the USDA Forest Service and local stakeholders, is the first of its kind focused on sustainable beach management. Building on these achievements, Zephyr Cove Resort reaffirmed its commitment to environmental stewardship during the busy Fourth of July weekend. Staff and volunteers engaged visitors by emphasizing Leave No Trace principles and responsible recreation practices, handing out recycling bags on entry and running a 'recycle store' where guests turned in their recycling or compost in exchange for engaging prizes. Following a safe and successful Independence Day celebration, the resort participated in Keep Tahoe Blue's annual 'Keep Tahoe Red, White & Blue Beach Cleanup' on July 5. With the support of 72 volunteers, Zephyr Cove Resort removed over 85 pounds of litter, marking a 48 percent reduction compared to 2024. Since the debut of the public cleanup initiative at the site, litter collected at the site has decreased by an impressive 97 percent. These outcomes reflect the resort's dedication to the Tahoe Blue Beach program's 'Three E's' framework: Education through signage and visitor engagement Engineering of infrastructure to reduce environmental impact Enforcement of responsible recreation practices These efforts were made possible through the support of valued partners and sponsors, including Keep Tahoe Blue, Leave No Trace, Eco-Products, Kastlfel, Keurig Dr Pepper, PepsiCo, and Progressive Insurance – each playing a vital role in promoting sustainability and enhancing the guest experience. Zephyr Cove Resort has also expanded its eco-friendly amenities with the installation of new bike racks, waste disposal stations, portable restrooms, handwashing stations, improved signage, enhanced parking infrastructure, water refill stations, cigarette disposal canisters, a dog bag station, and an upgraded wayfinding map. The resort has fully transitioned to reusable and compostable products, further contributing to a cleaner Lake Tahoe. 'Our team is deeply dedicated to protecting Lake Tahoe's natural beauty while creating memorable experiences for our guests,' said Kevin Schiesz, Tahoe District Manager for Aramark Destinations. 'These continued efforts are a testament to what's possible when community, innovation, and environmental responsibility come together.' Zephyr Cove Resort will continue working with local partners to align environmental goals with the region's economic vitality and tourism strategies – ensuring Lake Tahoe remains a national treasure for generations to come. About Aramark Destinations Aramark Destinations provides authentic experiences in the outdoors aimed to inspire, restore, and connect. For more information about Aramark's work in parks and destinations, or to plan your next outdoor adventure, visit
CBS News
05-06-2025
- Health
- CBS News
Auburn business helping prevent spread of golden mussels through sanitization process
How an Auburn business is helping prevent the spread of golden mussels How an Auburn business is helping prevent the spread of golden mussels How an Auburn business is helping prevent the spread of golden mussels GRAINTE BAY – Lakes across Northern California are stepping up inspections in an urgent effort to keep invasive golden mussels from contaminating local lakes and reservoirs. The mussels were first discovered in the San Joaquin Delta last October, and now there's growing concern that they could spread to Folsom Lake and Lake Tahoe. At The Boat House in Auburn, owner Eddie Medeiros is among those leading the charge in prevention. He's hard at work sanitizing watercraft using water heated to 120 degrees, the temperature required to kill any trace of the golden mussel. Medeiros said he handles at least 14 appointments a day. "I've been working 9 to 9. I just want everyone to have the opportunity to get on the water," Medeiros said. He's one of only a few local dealers recently certified to inspect and sanitize boats. This gives boaters a chance to get back on Folsom Lake right away, rather than having to go through a 30-day quarantine. "The timing couldn't be more perfect. It's like drinking from a fire hose," he added. While Lake Tahoe has had similar inspection protocols in place for years, an environmental group is asking for even more vigilance. "We really need to be on edge about the golden mussel. We're really concerned," said Laura Patten with Keep Tahoe Blue. Patten warns that the mussels can cling to more than just motorboats. Kayaks, paddleboards, inflatable floaties, and even fishing gear can carry the tiny invasive species. Though the risk from non-motorized equipment is lower, officials are urging everyone to thoroughly clean any gear they bring near the water. "Because once they're in Lake Tahoe, they would be impossible to remove," Patten said. Golden mussels are tough and adaptable, capable of surviving in a wide range of temperatures. They spread quickly, threaten native species, and can increase nutrients in the water. "When you think about the golden mussel, it could turn Lake Tahoe from blue to green," Patten said. At Folsom Lake, boat inspections are required at two launch points: Granite Bay and Browns Ravine. Anyone who skips the process could face fines. This is the first time a program like this has been implemented at Folsom Lake, and officials said it's efficient and necessary. "There've been some challenges we've had to work through, but we're making it work, and I think the process is very quick for folks," said Chief Barry Smith with the Gold Fields District.
