Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Dec. 16, 2024 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) fall Prescribed Fire Program continues this week around Lake Tahoe. If conditions improve, Carson City Fire Department, North Lake Tahoe, North Tahoe, and Tahoe Douglas fire protection districts, and the California Tahoe Conservancy will continue burning piles through Friday, Dec. 20, 2024. Smoke will be present. Then, prescribed burning may pause during the holidays and resume in January 2025.

View helpful Smoke Management Tips and the current air quality index at AirNow and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/USDA Forest Service Fire and Smoke Map. View the prescribed fire map with project details at Tahoe Living With Fire. To be added to the prescribed fire notification list, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Dec. 9, 2024 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) Fall Prescribed Fire Program continues around Lake Tahoe, conditions and weather permitting. If conditions are favorable, widespread burning will resume this week. Smoke may be present. View helpful Smoke Management Tips and the current air quality index at AirNow and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/USDA Forest Service Fire and Smoke Map . View the prescribed fire map with project details at Tahoe Living With Fire . To be added to the prescribed fire notification list, email us .

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing fuels that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycling nutrients back into the soil and reducing the spread of insects and disease.

Prescribed fire managers use different methods to remove excess vegetation (fuels) and reintroduce low-intensity fire into forests through pile, broadcast, and understory burning. Pile burning involves burning slash piles that are constructed by hand or mechanical equipment. Broadcast and understory burning use low-intensity fire to remove fuels under specific environmental conditions with fire confined to a predetermined area.

Winter holidays are a time for families and friends to get together and enjoy the festivities.

A few simple tips will help ensure a happy and fire-safe holiday season.

Preventing Christmas Tree Fires

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                          

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Dec. 3, 2024 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) Fall Prescribed Fire Program began in September and is scheduled to continue through the winter months when conditions are favorable. During this period, residents and visitors in the Lake Tahoe Basin and surrounding areas may notice smoke in the air regularly due to residential debris burning and prescribed fire operations. Both activities play an essential role in protecting our communities by reducing excess vegetation (fuels) that can feed wildland fires. However, no matter how positive the benefits are, they come with a side effect that can be more than a minor inconvenience: smoke. 

Prescribed Fire

While fire has always been a natural part of the Sierra Nevada ecosystem, the structure of our current society presents unique challenges for land managers. Today, there are more people than ever living in or visiting Tahoe Basin forests. For many, smoke is the most likely way they will experience a prescribed fire, which can lead to a lot of negative emotions. No one likes to breathe smoke, and it can pose tangible health risks, especially to vulnerable populations. The good news is that exposure to smoke can be reduced by following a few simple suggestions:

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                       

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Dec. 2, 2024 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) Fall Prescribed Fire Program continues around Lake Tahoe, conditions and weather permitting. If conditions are favorable, widespread burning will resume this week. Smoke may be present. View helpful Smoke Management Tips and the current air quality index at AirNow and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/USDA Forest Service Fire and Smoke Map. View the prescribed fire map with project details at Tahoe Living With Fire. To be added to the prescribed fire notification list, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing fuels that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycling nutrients back into the soil and reducing the spread of insects and disease.

Prescribed fire managers use different methods to remove excess vegetation (fuels) and reintroduce low-intensity fire into forests through pile, broadcast, and understory burning. Pile burning involves burning slash piles that are constructed by hand or mechanical equipment. Broadcast and understory burning use low-intensity fire to remove fuels under specific environmental conditions with fire confined to a predetermined area.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Nov. 18, 2024 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) Fall Prescribed Fire Program continues this week around Lake Tahoe, conditions and weather permitting. North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District may burn piles around Incline Village, Tahoe Douglas Fire Protection District may burn piles near Glenbrook, Logan Creek and on Kingsbury Grade, and the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit may burn piles off Luther Pass near the campground and off Fallen Leaf and Spring Creek roads near South Lake Tahoe.

Smoke will be present and is expected to travel in a north, northeast direction. View helpful Smoke Management Tips and the current air quality index at AirNow and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/USDA Forest Service Fire and Smoke Map. View the prescribed fire map with project details at Tahoe Living With Fire. To be added to the prescribed fire notification list, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing fuels that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycling nutrients back into the soil and reducing the spread of insects and disease.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                           

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Nov. 12, 2024 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) Fall Prescribed Fire Program continues for the next two weeks on Lake Tahoe’s eastern and southern shores, conditions and weather permitting. North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District will burn piles around Incline Village, Tahoe Douglas Fire Protection District will burn piles near Glenbrook, Logan Creek and on Kingsbury Grade, and the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit will burn piles off Luther Pass near the campground, near Columbine Trail off Pioneer Trail, near Fallen Leaf and Spring Creek roads.

Smoke will be present and is expected to travel in a north, northeast direction. View helpful Smoke Management Tips and the current air quality index at AirNow and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/USDA Forest Service Fire and Smoke Map. View the prescribed fire map with project details at Tahoe Living With Fire. To be added to the prescribed fire notification list, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

As winter approaches, preparing your home to withstand the colder months and keep you and your family safe is essential. Taking some simple steps now can prevent major inconveniences later and ensure your home is a safe, warm haven during winter.

Home Winter Preparedness Tips:

• Smoke & CO Alarms: 
  • To keep your home safe, ensure working smoke alarms are installed in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of your home. Place carbon monoxide (CO) alarms in a central location outside each sleeping area and on every level. Test both smoke and CO alarms monthly. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA 72) and the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) recommend replacing smoke alarms every 10 years to maintain reliability, as components degrade over time. Many state and local codes adopt this standard, so check with local authorities for specific requirements. Most newer alarms include a “replace by” date to help you stay on track.
• Emergency Planning: Identify and plan two escape routes from your home in case of emergencies.
• Clear Accessways: Keep driveways and walkways free of ice and snow to allow easy access for first responders if needed.
• Visible Address: Ensure your house number is visible from the street to help first responders locate you.
• Power Outages: Prepare for potential power outages with flashlights, battery-powered lighting, and fresh batteries.
• Portable Generators: Use generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas, away from doors, windows, and vents. Avoid using generators in wet areas, and use heavy-duty extension cords to connect appliances. Always turn off the generator before refueling to prevent fires.
• Check on Neighbors: Reach out to neighbors, especially those who may need additional assistance.
• Stay Away from Downed Wires: Report any downed wires to local authorities and avoid contact.
• Heating Precautions: If your primary heating source fails, use extra clothing and blankets to stay warm. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines when using emergency heat sources and keep combustibles at least three feet away.
• Portable Heaters: Always turn off portable heaters when you leave the room or go to bed.
• Gas Meter Access: Keep your gas meter shed easily accessible and clear of snow.
• Furnace and Chimney Maintenance: Have your furnace and chimney inspected and serviced by a qualified professional. A clean chimney is essential for preventing fires caused by creosote buildup.
• Ash Disposal: Use a metal container with a cover to dispose of cooled ashes safely. Residents can apply for a free ash can through the Fire District’s Ash Can Program. For more information visit the Fire District Administration Office at 866 Oriole Way, Incline Village, or visit our website.
• Emergency Alerts: Register for emergency notifications through Washoe County at Regional Alerts or by downloading the Smart911 app.

Helpful Contact Numbers & Websites:

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.             

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Nov. 5, 2024 – Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) forest thinning projects are underway and will continue through the fall, conditions and weather permitting. The USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit is scheduled to resume masticating vegetation around the Golden Bear neighborhood this week to protect homes by reducing excess vegetation (fuels) that can feed unwanted wildfires. For details about this work and other active projects, including land ownership, lead agency, start date and expected duration, view the Forest Thinning Projects Map at Tahoe Living With Fire which highlights current and upcoming projects.

Mastication, also known as forest mulching, is a mechanical process that involves using heavy equipment to chop, grind, or shred vegetation into smaller pieces. The resulting pieces are then spread out on the ground and left to naturally decompose. Mastication treatments help reduce the risk of wildfire in the wildland urban interface (WUI) by reducing ladder fuels and creating gaps between surface fuels and crown fuels to keep fire on the ground. The work in the Golden Bear area will target ground vegetation and brush, primarily manzanita and will not target any trees.

Forest health is a top priority of the Lake Tahoe Environmental Improvement Program (EIP), a landscape-scale collaboration and partnership between nearly 80 public and private organizations to achieve the environmental goals of the region. To date, partners have treated nearly 95,000 acres in Lake Tahoe Basin forests to reduce hazardous fuels.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                  

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Nov. 4, 2024 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) Fall Prescribed Fire Program resumes this week on Lake Tahoe’s east and south shores. Conditions and weather permitting, Tahoe Douglas Fire Protection District will burn piles near Glenbrook and the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit will burn piles off Luther Pass near the campground, and off Columbine Trail near South Lake Tahoe.

Smoke will be present and is expected to travel in a north, northeast direction. View helpful Smoke Management Tips and the current air quality index at AirNow and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/USDA Forest Service Fire and Smoke Map. View the prescribed fire map with project details at Tahoe Living With Fire. To be added to the prescribed fire notification list, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

With the arrival of moisture, higher humidity, and winter weather conditions, effective Friday, November 1, 2024, outdoor burning is permissible in Incline Village and Crystal Bay, NV. Permits for open burning of pine needles, slash piles, construction warming fires, and recreational fire pits are available Monday through Friday, free of charge.

Please call 775-831-0351, ext. 8107 to schedule an inspection and obtain a permit.

Visit our website for more information.

  Guidelines for open burning are:

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                             

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Oct. 21, 2024 – Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) forest thinning (fuels reduction) projects are underway and scheduled to continue through fall 2024, conditions and weather permitting. North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District, Liberty Utilities, NV Energy and the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit are working together to protect Lake Tahoe communities by reducing excess vegetation (fuels) that can feed unwanted wildfires. For details, including land ownership, lead agency, start date and expected duration, view the Forest Thinning Projects Map at Tahoe Living With Fire which highlights current and upcoming projects.

Forest health is a top priority of the Lake Tahoe Environmental Improvement Program (EIP), a landscape-scale collaboration and partnership between nearly 80 public and private organizations to achieve the environmental goals of the region. To date, partners have treated nearly 95,000 acres in Lake Tahoe Basin forests to reduce hazardous fuels.

After decades of fire suppression, Tahoe Basin’s forests are overstocked and highly vulnerable to insects, disease, and catastrophic wildfire. Forest thinning projects are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing fuels on public lands that can feed unwanted wildfires. These projects complement defensible space and home hardening efforts on private property in neighborhoods and communities.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.   

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Oct. 15, 2024 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) Fall Prescribed Fire Program continues this week on Lake Tahoe’s West Shore. California State Parks will continue understory burning at Sugar Pine Point State Park, conditions and weather permitting.

Smoke from the understory burn will be present and is expected to travel in a northeast direction. View helpful Smoke Management Tips and the current air quality index at AirNow and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/USDA Forest Service Fire and Smoke Map. View the prescribed fire map with project details at Tahoe Living With Fire. To be added to the prescribed fire notification list, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                  

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Oct. 7, 2024 – Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) forest thinning projects are underway and scheduled to continue through this fall, conditions and weather permitting. The USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit will be masticating around the Golden Bear neighborhood this week beginning tomorrow, Oct. 8, 2024. For more details about these projects, including land ownership, lead agency, start date and expected duration, view the Forest Thinning Projects Map at Tahoe Living With Fire which highlights current and upcoming projects.

Mastication, also known as forest mulching, is a mechanical process that involves using heavy equipment to chop, grind, or shred vegetation into smaller pieces. The resulting pieces are then spread out on the ground and left to naturally decompose. Mastication treatments help reduce the risk of wildfire in the wildland urban interface (WUI) by reducing ladder fuels and creating gaps between surface fuels and crown fuels to keep fire on the ground. The work in the Golden Bear area will target ground vegetation and brush, primarily manzanita and will not target any trees.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                    

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Oct. 7, 2024 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) Fall Prescribed Fire Program continues this week on Lake Tahoe’s West Shore. If conditions and weather are favorable, California State Parks will resume understory burning at Sugar Pine Point State Park.

Smoke from the understory burn will be present and is expected to travel in a northeast direction. View helpful Smoke Management Tips and the current air quality index at AirNow and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/USDA Forest Service Fire and Smoke Map. View the prescribed fire map with project details at Tahoe Living With Fire. To be added to the prescribed fire notification list, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing fuels that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycling nutrients back into the soil and reducing the spread of insects and disease.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.       

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Sep. 30, 2024 – Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) forest thinning projects are underway and scheduled to continue over the next several weeks, conditions and weather permitting. For project details, including land ownership, lead agency, start date and expected duration, view the Forest Thinning Projects Map at Tahoe Living With Fire which highlights current and upcoming projects.

Forest health is a top priority of the Lake Tahoe Environmental Improvement Program (EIP), a landscape-scale collaboration and partnership between nearly 80 public and private organizations to achieve the environmental goals of the region. To date, partners have treated nearly 95,000 acres in Lake Tahoe Basin forests to reduce hazardous fuels.

After decades of fire suppression, Tahoe Basin’s forests are overstocked and highly vulnerable to insects, disease, and catastrophic wildfire. Forest thinning projects are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing excess vegetation (fuels) on public lands that can feed unwanted wildfires. These projects complement defensible space and home hardening efforts on private property in neighborhoods and communities. Forest thinning also contributes to improved forest health, wildlife habitat, and watershed and forest resilience in the face of climate change.

Contact:  Tahoe Resource Conservation District, Cara Moore, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..                       

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Sep. 30, 2024 - The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) is pleased to announce the release of a new map that has been created to showcase fire restrictions throughout the Lake Tahoe Basin. The map shows who owns the land and what type of fire is permitted. It can be found here underneath the “Prescribed Fire & Current/Upcoming Fuels Reductions” map on Tahoe Living With Fire.

“Fire restrictions have been a topic of confusion for residents and visitors alike,” said TFFT Incident Commander, Isaac Powning. “In a region defined by two states, five counties, and one city, it can be challenging to know who manages the land and what the rules are on that land. This map will help remedy that confusion.”

Fire restrictions are meticulously set by land managers and fire agencies. They dictate what kinds of BBQs, residential fires, or campfires are allowed. This map functions as a tool that will use a user’s location to connect them to the corresponding agency’s fire restrictions website.

“It’s critically important to understand the fire restrictions where you are,” said the map’s creator, Environmental Scientist at the Tahoe Resource Conservation District, Cara Moore. “We are surrounded by forests in the Tahoe Basin, and we all need to do our part to follow fire restrictions to reduce wildfire risk.”

As Fire Prevention Week approaches, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reminds us of the critical role working smoke alarms play in keeping families safe from fire.

According to the NFPA, having functional smoke alarms in the home reduces the risk of dying in a fire by more than half (54 percent). Unfortunately, nearly three out of five home fire fatalities occur in homes without smoke alarms or with non-functional ones.

“Working smoke alarms in the home are the first line of defense and can make a life-saving difference during a fire by giving people the time they need to get out safely,” said Fire Marshal John James of the North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District (NLTFPD).

NLTFPD urges residents to follow these essential smoke alarm safety tips:

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.   

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Sep. 23, 2024 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) Fall Prescribed Fire Program kicks off tomorrow, Sep. 24, 2024. If conditions and weather are favorable, California State Parks will conduct an understory burn at the entrance to Sugar Pine Point State Park on Lake Tahoe’s West Shore.

Smoke from the understory burn will be present and is expected to travel in a northeast direction. View helpful Smoke Management Tips and the current air quality index at AirNow and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/USDA Forest Service Fire and Smoke Map. View the prescribed fire map with project details at Tahoe Living With Fire. To be added to the prescribed fire notification list, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing fuels that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycling nutrients back into the soil and reducing the spread of insects and disease.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                      

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Sep. 23, 2024 – Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) forest thinning projects are underway and scheduled to continue over the next several weeks, conditions and weather permitting. Some projects are expected to continue through the fall. For project details, including land ownership, lead agency, start date and expected duration, view the Forest Thinning Projects Map at Tahoe Living With Fire which highlights current and upcoming projects.

Forest health is a top priority of the Lake Tahoe Environmental Improvement Program (EIP), a landscape-scale collaboration and partnership between nearly 80 public and private organizations to achieve the environmental goals of the region. To date, partners have treated nearly 95,000 acres in Lake Tahoe Basin forests to reduce hazardous fuels.

After decades of fire suppression, Tahoe Basin’s forests are overstocked and highly vulnerable to insects, disease, and catastrophic wildfire. Forest thinning projects are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing excess vegetation (fuels) on public lands that can feed unwanted wildfires. These projects complement defensible space and home hardening efforts on private property in neighborhoods and communities. Forest thinning also contributes to improved forest health, wildlife habitat, and watershed and forest resilience in the face of climate change.

Incline Village, NV – Each September, National Preparedness Month reminds us to prioritize family and community disaster planning throughout the year. By taking these three essential steps, you can be better prepared for emergencies:

1. Make a Plan
2. Stay Informed
3. Assemble a Kit

Being prepared can help you navigate emergencies with greater ease and less stress.

1. Make a Plan

Ensure your family is well-informed about potential hazards and community response plans. Consider the following when developing your Emergency Plan:

• Identify potential disasters and know how to respond to each.
• Discuss how to handle power outages and personal injuries.
• Know two escape routes from every room in your home.
• Identify two family meeting places – one near home and one farther away.
• Post emergency telephone numbers in a central location.
• Understand evacuation procedures and how to shut off utility services.
• Plan for special needs within your household.
• Make arrangements for your pets.

2. Stay Informed

In a crisis, local public safety officials use various methods to alert the public:

Incline Village, NV – As Labor Day weekend approaches, marking the end of summer and changing of seasons, we encourage our visitors and locals to plan ahead and recreate responsibly, keeping safety first.

Summer fire restrictions are still in place around the Lake Tahoe Basin, and they differ depending on Fire District as well as state and federal lands. Find your fire district and educate yourself on the current fire restrictions in your area.

Check the weather before participating in outdoor activities. The National Weather Service (NWS) Reno issues Red Flag Warnings to alert land management officials and fire agencies when the potential of critical weather that could lead to wildfire activity.

Check out these safety tips for boaters, swimmers, hikers, and bikers to keep you safe while you recreate!

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                   

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., August 19, 2024 – Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) forest thinning projects are underway and scheduled to continue for the next several weeks, conditions and weather permitting. Some projects are expected to continue through the fall. For project details, including land ownership, lead agency, start date and expected duration, view the Forest Thinning Projects Map at Tahoe Living With Fire which highlights current and upcoming projects.

Forest health is a top priority of the Lake Tahoe Environmental Improvement Program (EIP), a landscape-scale collaboration and partnership between nearly 80 public and private organizations to achieve the environmental goals of the region. To date, partners have treated nearly 95,000 acres in Lake Tahoe Basin forests to reduce hazardous fuels.

After decades of fire suppression, Tahoe Basin’s forests are overstocked and highly vulnerable to insects, disease, and catastrophic wildfire. Forest thinning projects are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing excess vegetation (fuels) on public lands that can feed unwanted wildfires. These projects complement defensible space and home hardening efforts on private property in neighborhoods and communities. Forest thinning also contributes to improved forest health, wildlife habitat, and watershed and forest resilience in the face of climate change.

Summer is in full gear and the North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District wants to help you lower the risk of wildfires in our community and, your home.

Chipping & Defensible Space Inspections:

Sign up for your FREE Defensible Space Inspection and take advantage of our Chipping Service. Both services are free! Service requests are addressed on a first-come, first-served basis so sign up today!

To sign up for a Defensible Space Inspection visit https://www.defensiblespacereport.org/northlaketahoe.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                               

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., July 23, 2024 – Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) forest thinning projects are underway in the Lake Tahoe Basin. These projects are expected to continue for the next several weeks with some projects continuing through the fall, conditions and weather permitting. For project details, including the lead agency, start date and expected duration, view the Forest Thinning Projects Map at Tahoe Living With Fire which highlights current and upcoming projects.

After decades of fire suppression, Tahoe Basin’s forests are overstocked and highly vulnerable to insects, disease, and catastrophic wildfire. Forest thinning projects are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing excess vegetation (fuels) on public lands that can feed unwanted wildfires. These projects complement defensible space and home hardening efforts on private property in neighborhoods and communities. Forest thinning also contributes to improved forest health, wildlife habitat, and watershed and forest resilience in the face of climate change.

These projects improve forest health by thinning trees in dense areas, which reduces competition for water, sunlight and nutrients and allows remaining trees to thrive. Thinning also decreases the potential for spreading tree diseases and insect infestations such as white pine blister rust, dwarf mistletoe and bark beetles.

Contact:  Tahoe Resource Conservation District, Cara Moore This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                       

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., July 15, 2024 - In collaboration with the Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT), the Tahoe Resource Conservation District (TRCD) is pleased to announce the Forest Vegetation Interactive Map that highlights forest restoration and fuels reduction treatment accomplishments of the TFFT and the Lake Tahoe Environmental Improvement Program (EIP). The EIP is a landscape-scale collaborative partnership between nearly 80 public and private organizations working to achieve environmental goals across the region and includes local, state, and federal government agencies, private entities, scientists, and the Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California.

The Forest Vegetation Treatment Interactive Map is a user-friendly, interactive tool available to the public that converts vegetation treatment data into interactive maps. Map layers include data for treatments including biomass removal, chipping and masticating, forest thinning and prescribed fire.

The North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District is excited to be a part of the First Annual Silver State Women in Fire Female Firefighter Training Day, just two days away!

We invite our media partners to join us on Saturday, June 29th, at Carson City Fire Station 52 from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm for an exciting and informative event designed to give females that are interested in learning about the fire service, an in-depth perspective with hands-on training learning the ropes alongside men and women from 11 Northern Nevada agencies. Talk with participants, trainers, and organizers to see firsthand how these women are igniting their passion for a career in the fire service.

This free event, for women 17 years of age and older, is structured like a day in a fire suppression academy.

The training day includes physical fitness exercises, hands-on training, and classroom presentations. Participants will have the opportunity for a Q&A session with current and retired female firefighters, providing invaluable insights and inspiration.

Contact:  North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District, Tia Rancourt This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                     

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., June 28, 2024 – Summer is in full swing and so are fire restrictions in the Lake Tahoe Basin. Please “Know Before You Go” and check the fire restriction status in your area. Visit Tahoe Living With Fire to learn more and contact your local fire district for the specific fire restrictions in your area. For National Forest or State Park fire restrictions, please visit the USDA Forest Service Fire Restriction webpage or check with the respective California or Nevada state park as they can differ from local fire district restrictions.

“It only takes one thoughtless BBQ or tiki torch to potentially cause a catastrophic wildfire,” said North Tahoe Fire Protection District Chief, Ryan Sommers. “Take time to understand what the fire restrictions are where you are living or recreating so that you aren’t the cause.”

Contact: Jamie Roice-Gomes, University of Nevada, Reno Extension’s Living With Fire Program 775-336-0261, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Jun. 27, 2024 – As we move into summer and the vegetation dries out, the Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team would like the public to remember the importance of creating and maintaining defensible space. University of Nevada, Reno Extension’s Living With Fire Program published a new Living With Fire Defensible Space Guide to help teach residents how to do it.

“Defensible space reduces the wildfire threat upon a home and creates a space for firefighters to safely defend the home,” said Jamie Roice-Gomes, manager of the University of Nevada Reno Extension’s Living With Fire Program. “This guide is meant to help individuals living in the rangeland and forestland ecosystems to create defensible space.”

Seasonal Open Burning (wood, slash, or needle piles) closed May 31, 2024.

Recreational fires (wood or charcoal fire within a non-combustible container with a 1/8” mesh screen) are still allowed with a permit. Please note, however, that recreational fires are not permissible on short-term rental properties.

Barbeque grilling (natural gas, propane, charcoal) is still allowed. All grilling appliances shall be used within the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations. This also includes smokers and pellet stoves.

Summer is here! While the temperatures outside are toasty, the water temperature of Lake Tahoe is still on the cool side. Before you take a plunge, test the temperature first and know your limitations. The lake temperature is currently in the mid-60s, which is considered cold water and can quickly lead to cold water shock, swim failure, and hypothermia. For current water temperature and lake conditions, visit  Tahoe Environmental Research Center. As the winter runoff melts and makes its way to the lake, the water temperatures will fluctuate. Lake Tahoe is the second deepest lake in the United States, because of this the temperatures remain lower year-round than most lakes in our region.

Whether boating, jet skiing, kayaking, rafting, paddle boarding, or swimming, it’s a good idea to inform yourself about the colder temperatures of Lake Tahoe including rules and regulations, and safety tips. Visit NDOW for more information on boating rules and regulations and Take Care Tahoe for cold water safety tips.

Also, check the wind conditions and red flag warning status. You can find this information at the US National Weather Service Reno.

We respond to numerous water emergencies on the lake during the summer and throughout the year. Please consider the following safety precautions before recreating on Lake Tahoe:

BOAT SAFE: PREPARE FOR COLD WATER AT LAKE TAHOE

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., June 6, 2024 – In coordination with the Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT), the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit (LTBMU), is scheduled to conduct an understory prescribed fire on approximately 46 acres near South Lake Tahoe beginning Sun., June 9, 2024, and continuing through Tue., June 11. The burn will take place only if conditions and weather are favorable and is located on the southeast side of Pioneer Trail between Susquehana Drive and Golden Bear Trail. For more details, view the prescribed fire map at Tahoe Living With Fire. Ignitions typically begin at 10 a.m. and smoke will be present. To reduce smoke impacts, view helpful smoke management tips and monitor air quality at AirNow.gov and Fire/Smoke Map. A Fire Information booth will be set up on Pioneer Trail Sunday and Monday with LTBMU Fire Prevention staff available to answer questions. 

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing fuels that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycling nutrients back into the soil and reducing the spread of insects and disease.

Prescribed fire managers use different methods to remove excess vegetation (fuels) and reintroduce low-intensity fire into forests through pile, broadcast, and understory burning. Pile burning involves burning slash piles that are constructed by hand or mechanical equipment. Broadcast and understory burning use low-intensity fire to remove fuels under specific environmental conditions with fire confined to a predetermined area.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                       

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., June 4, 2024 – If conditions and weather are favorable, Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) member, the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit (LTBMU), is scheduled to conduct understory burning on approximately 46 acres off Pioneer Trail near South Lake Tahoe between June 9 and June 24, 2024. A Fire Information booth will be set up on Pioneer Trail near Jicarilla Drive during active burning and LTBMU Fire Prevention staff will be available to answer questions. Ignitions typically begin at 10 a.m. and smoke will be present. View smoke management tips and the current air quality index at AirNow, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Forest Service Fire and Smoke Map and the prescribed fire map with details at Tahoe Living With Fire.

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing fuels that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycling nutrients back into the soil and reducing the spread of insects and disease.

Prescribed fire managers use different methods to remove excess vegetation (fuels) and reintroduce low-intensity fire into forests through pile, broadcast, and understory burning. Pile burning involves burning slash piles that are constructed by hand or mechanical equipment. Broadcast and understory burning use low-intensity fire to remove fuels under specific environmental conditions with fire confined to a predetermined area.

Effective May 31, 2024, Seasonal Open Burning (wood, slash, or needle piles) will be closed for Incline Village and Crystal Bay, NV.

Recreational fires (wood or charcoal fire within a non-combustible container with a 1/8” mesh screen) are still allowed with a permit.

Barbeque grilling is still allowed, with the following guidelines:

All grilling appliances shall be used within the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations.

Memorial Weekend is often seen as the unofficial start to summer and a long weekend for many, but the day is about more than socializing with friends and family, it commemorates our fallen military personnel who so bravely gave their lives. Recognizing the gift of freedom as we gather with friends and family over this special weekend, please celebrate safely and take a moment to review these safety tips:

• If you plan on hiking, biking, and using the trail systems around the Lake Tahoe basin, there are many options, please visit Tahoe Rim Trail Association/Maps & Trail Information for current conditions and trail information.
• Most National Forest beaches and campgrounds at Lake Tahoe open mid-May, but some backcountry campgrounds may still be closed, check opening dates on USFS Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit current recreation conditions.
• Wear clothing that you can layer to keep you warm and dry.
• If you plan to enjoy any water activities, whether “in”, “on”, or “around” the water, educate yourself about the colder temperatures of Lake Tahoe and be safe.
  • Know Before You Go – check the weather and water temperature.
  • Plan and Prepare – life jackets save lives, make sure they are available. Bring essential gear for boating.
  • Respect the water and mother nature – know the water conditions, obey posted safety signs, and always tell someone your plan when headed out into the water.
  • Learn how to respond, call 911 and get help if someone else is in trouble. Do not go in the water. To assist others: Reach, Throw, Don’t Go. If you are in trouble: Flip, Float, Relax.
• Recreate responsibly and Leave No Trace.

There are currently no summer fire restrictions in place for Incline Village and Crystal Bay, Nevada.

Winter fire restrictions are still in effect which allows for solid fuel (wood and charcoal) grilling, with the following guidelines:

All grilling appliances shall be used within the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations. Follow these simple safety tips when using solid-fuel, charcoal, or propane grills.

Celebrated nationally during the third week of May, this special week acknowledges the outstanding services performed by our first responders nationwide “The 50^th Anniversary theme this year honors and celebrates our first responders by building awareness of vital EMS services in our community,” said Russ Barnum, Assistant Fire Chief, North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District (NLTFPD). “The commitment and support over the years by our EMS providers has led us to where we are today and will lead us into the future as we continue to grow with the dynamic needs of our community.”  

This 50^th annual event brings together local communities and medical personnel acknowledging our first responders not just during this week, but every day as they rise to the challenge of every call. NLTFPD first responders provide critical care 24/7 to our community.

Whether in populated cities, small villages or less populated rural areas, these individuals answer the 911 call no matter what or where the circumstances.

Summer is here and the snow is melting. Prepare for wildfire season and sign up for defensible space evaluations and curbside chipping services. For more information on these services and to register online, visit www.nltfpd.org.

For curbside yard debris collection dates and information, visit https://www.yourtahoeplace.com/events/yard-waste-collection

Defensible Space Evaluation requests will be contacted within two weeks to schedule an evaluation date. Chipping requests are taken as they are received and completed as crews are available, keeping in mind they respond to wildfires and may not be able to get to your chipping pile right away.

Please provide all requested information on the online form to the best of your knowledge, so we can maintain these free services.

Contact: Jamie Roice-Gomes, University of Nevada, Reno Extension’s Living With Fire Program, 775-336-0261 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev. – This May marks the start of Wildfire Awareness Month, the Tahoe Fire and Fuels Team announced today. The collaboration is leveling up the region’s wildfire preparedness efforts by kicking off the Lake Tahoe Wildfire Awareness Campaign. The campaign includes many events and will run from May through October, highlighting the message: “Get Defensive – Create Defensible Space.”

“This year’s theme is a fun way to say that the best offense is a strong defense and to be proactive when it comes to maintaining a home that has proper defensible space,” says Tia Rancourt, public information officer for the North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                       

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., April 29, 2024 – If conditions and weather are favorable, Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) member, the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit, may burn piles this week at Lake Tahoe. Smoke will be present. View smoke management tips and the current air quality index at AirNow, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Forest Service Fire and Smoke Map and the prescribed fire map with details at Tahoe Living With Fire. To be added to the prescribed fire notification list, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing fuels that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycling nutrients back into the soil and reducing the spread of insects and disease.

Prescribed fire managers use different methods to remove excess vegetation (fuels) and reintroduce low-intensity fire into forests through pile, broadcast, and understory burning. Pile burning involves burning slash piles that are constructed by hand or mechanical equipment. Broadcast and understory burning use low-intensity fire to remove fuels under specific environmental conditions with fire confined to a predetermined area.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                     

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., April 29, 2024 – As we move into the warm season, it’s time to start thinking about defensible space and home hardening. The choice Tahoe residents make to live in the forest surrounding beautiful Lake Tahoe comes with added responsibility. This responsibility includes minimizing the risk of wildfire from embers landing on or around your home or property. Research suggests that 60-90 percent of home ignitions are due to embers falling on something combustible such as pine needles, leaves, juniper bushes, and/or patio furniture. Once ignited, ember fires eagerly search for nearby combustible material (fuels) and once found produce more embers, creating a destructive cycle. 

Wildfire risk is reduced in areas where defensible space and home hardening tasks are completed. Whether it is a wildland fire or a nearby structure fire, embers are the problem. Fire embers are weightless and easily carried by the wind, which allows them to land on combustible material, creating new fire ignitions. Embers can sometimes travel a mile or more away from the flame front. This is the most common cause of structure ignition during wildland fire events. 

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                       

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., April 22, 2024 – Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) members, Tahoe Douglas Fire Protection District and the USDA Forest Service, may burn piles this week at Lake Tahoe if conditions and weather are favorable. Smoke will be present. View smoke management tips and the current air quality index at AirNow, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Forest Service Fire and Smoke Map, and the prescribed fire map with details at Tahoe Living With Fire. To be added to the prescribed fire notification list, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing fuels that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycling nutrients back into the soil, and reducing the spread of insects and disease.

The North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District – C100, B11, E11, E12, M12, E13, responded to a vehicle on fire in the garage of a residence on Winding Way at approximately 1:13 p.m. this afternoon.

The resident was safely evacuated, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.

Thank you to the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office and NV Energy for your response and support.

The North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District will be hosting a Community Blood Drive on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the main fire station located at 875 Tanager Street.

Donate for Moms by giving blood on Tuesday, May 7th.

Food and beverages will be provided courtesy of the Hyatt Regency Resort, Spa & Casino, and Mofo's Pizza.

To make an appointment:

With the change of seasons officially here, it is a good reminder to start thinking about outdoor springtime clean-up (that is of course between snowstorms and shoveling your fire hydrant!). During this transitional season change, we can anticipate getting ready for fire season and creating our defensible space. This also includes making sure you have a preparedness kit or go bag ready, and for Washoe County residents, that you are signed up for CodeRED Emergency Alert notifications.

Embrace Village-wide Fire Safety! Secure a Free Defensible Space Inspection Today!

Join hands with the Fire Department to safeguard our community against wildfires. Sign up for your complimentary Defensible Space Inspection, complete with a comprehensive report and photographs. Let's work together to enhance our understanding of wildfire prevention. Schedule your inspection here. Also, for our free chipping service, please visit here. Please note that both Defensible Space Inspection and Chipping requests for the 2024 season will start May 6, 2024.

It is National Donate Life Month, and we are honored to support Nevada Donor Network’s mission to save and heal lives through donation by participating in the 2024 Silver State Heroes Challenge along with first responder agencies across the state.

More than 100,000 people nationwide are waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant, including nearly 700 Nevadans. Will you help us bring hope to these 700 Nevadans who are waiting for their second chance through organ donation? Not registered?

Register here: www.nvdonor.org/nltfd.

Together, we have the power to save and heal lives.

Thanks to a $1.7 million grant from FEMA's Assistance to Firefighters Grant program, Carson City, Tahoe Douglas, East Fork, Smith Valley, and North Lake Tahoe Fire Districts all have new, state-of-the-art Scott X3 PRO self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

These SCBAs, essential for protecting firefighters in hazardous environments, were nearing the end of their lifespan. The new Scott X3 PRO models offer the latest safety features, ensuring better protection for our firefighters who risk their lives for our communities.

This grant, administered by the North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District (NLTFPD), fostered regional cooperation, with all five fire departments now using the same equipment, enabling seamless collaboration, communication, and interoperability during joint operations across county lines.

The North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District thanks FEMA and the participating fire departments for collaborating over the last 17 months in securing and implementing this grant.

“Big thanks go to FEMA and all the participating fire districts for making this vital upgrade possible. Regional cooperation is key, and this project is a shining example of that principle in action,” said NLTFPD Fire Chief Ryan Sommers.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                       

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., April 1, 2024 – Conditions and weather permitting, Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) member, Tahoe Douglas Fire Protection District, will continue burning piles on Lake Tahoe’s eastern shore this week. Smoke will be present. View smoke management tips and the current air quality index at AirNow, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Forest Service Fire and Smoke Map and the prescribed fire map with details at Tahoe Living With Fire. To be added to the prescribed fire notification list, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing fuels that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycling nutrients back into the soil and reducing the spread of insects and disease.

Prescribed fire managers use different methods to remove excess vegetation (fuels) and reintroduce low-intensity fire into forests through pile, broadcast, and understory burning. Pile burning involves burning slash piles that are constructed by hand or mechanical equipment. Broadcast and understory burning use low-intensity fire to remove fuels under specific environmental conditions with fire confined to a predetermined area.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                       

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., March 18, 2024 – Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) members, the Nevada Division of Forestry and Tahoe Douglas Fire Protection District, will resume burning piles on the East Shore this week, conditions and weather permitting. Smoke will be present. View smoke management tips and the current air quality index at AirNow, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Forest Service Fire and Smoke Map and the prescribed fire map with details at Tahoe Living With Fire. To be added to the prescribed fire notification list, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing fuels that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycling nutrients back into the soil and reducing the spread of insects and disease.

Prescribed fire managers use different methods to remove excess vegetation (fuels) and reintroduce low-intensity fire into forests through pile, broadcast, and understory burning. Pile burning involves burning slash piles that are constructed by hand or mechanical equipment. Broadcast and understory burning use low-intensity fire to remove fuels under specific environmental conditions with fire confined to a predetermined area.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                       

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., March 11, 2024 – Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) member, the Nevada Division of Forestry, will resume burning piles at Spooner Lake this week, conditions and weather permitting. Smoke will be present. View smoke management tips and the current air quality index at AirNow, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Forest Service Fire and Smoke Map and the prescribed fire map with details at Tahoe Living With Fire. To be added to the prescribed fire notification list, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing fuels that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycling nutrients back into the soil and reducing the spread of insects and disease.

US National Weather Service Reno has issued a Blizzard Warning in effect from 10 a.m. Thursday, February 29 through 10 a.m. Sunday, March 3, 2024 for the greater Lake Tahoe area.

A Blizzard Warning means severe winter weather conditions are expected or occurring. Falling and blowing snow with strong winds are likely. This will lead to whiteout conditions, making travel extremely dangerous. Do not travel. If you must travel, have a winter survival kit with you. If you get stranded, stay in your vehicle.

Additionally, the Sierra Avalanche Center has issued a Backcountry Avalanche Watch in effect from 7 a.m. Friday, March 1 through 5 p.m. Sunday, March 3, 2024 for high to extreme avalanche danger for the Greater Lake Tahoe area.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                                   

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Feb. 26, 2024 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) members, Tahoe Douglas Fire Protection District, and the Nevada Division of Forestry will conduct prescribed fire operations this week at Lake Tahoe, conditions and weather permitting. Smoke will be present. View smoke management tips and the current air quality index at AirNow and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Forest Service Fire and Smoke Map. View the prescribed fire map with project details and locations at Tahoe Living With Fire. To be added to the prescribed fire notification list, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing fuels that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycling nutrients back into the soil and reducing the spread of insects and disease.

It is not just about wearing red. It is about taking action to prevent heart disease, the leading cause of death in the US. The American Heart Association has resources to help you live a healthier life, eat better, and stay active. Visit their website for valuable tips www.heart.org.

Knowing CPR could mean the difference between life and death for someone experiencing cardiac arrest. The North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District (NLTFPD) offers monthly CPR classes to empower you to save lives. Sign up today at www.nltfpd.org. Be the "link in the chain of survival"!

You can also download the PulsePoint app. This innovative 911-connected app informs you of nearby emergencies and empowers you to help. When someone close by needs CPR, PulsePoint alerts you and guides you to their location. With over 1300 active users in our community, you can follow us, stay connected, and if CPR is needed, lend a hand, “Get the app. Save a life.”

As the first Heart Safe Community since 2014 in the state of Nevada, we celebrate our community and continue striving to provide the best possible care to our community members.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                                   

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Feb. 12, 2024 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) including North Tahoe and Tahoe Douglas fire protection districts, California Tahoe Conservancy, Nevada Division of Forestry, and the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit, will conduct prescribed fire operations this week at Lake Tahoe as conditions and weather allow. Smoke will be present. View smoke management tips and the current air quality index at AirNow and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Forest Service Fire and Smoke Map. View the prescribed fire map with project details and locations at Tahoe Living With Fire. To be added to the prescribed fire notification list, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing fuels that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycling nutrients back into the soil and reducing the spread of insects and disease.

Prescribed fire managers use different methods to remove excess vegetation (fuels) and reintroduce low-intensity fire into forests through pile, broadcast, and understory burning. Pile burning involves burning slash piles that are constructed by hand or mechanical equipment. Broadcast and understory burning use low-intensity fire to remove fuels under specific environmental conditions with fire confined to a predetermined area.

The North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District will be holding a Public Auction for these two vehicles starting on Monday Feb. 12^th at 0800 and ending on Friday Feb. 16^th at 1600.

Please email your highest bid for each vehicle of interest to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. within the bidding window.

On Friday Feb. 16^th at 1600 we will collect the bids and notify you if you are the highest bidder for a particular vehicle. *Bidding starts at reserve price in the Ad Listing*

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                            

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Jan. 29, 2024 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) including North Tahoe and Tahoe Douglas fire protection districts, California State Parks, Nevada Division of Forestry and the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit, will continue burning this week at Lake Tahoe, conditions and weather permitting. Smoke may be present throughout the Lake Tahoe Basin and surrounding areas. View smoke management tips and the current air quality index at AirNow and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Forest Service Fire and Smoke Map. View the prescribed fire map with project details and locations at Tahoe Living With Fire. To be added to the prescribed fire notification list, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing fuels that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycling nutrients back into the soil and reducing the spread of insects and disease.

Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada – The Tahoe Resource Conservation District, a member of the Tahoe Fire and Fuels Team, is encouraging homeowners and residents at Lake Tahoe to participate in the Tahoe Network of Fire Adapted Community program in 2024. The initiative focuses on creating Fire Adapted Communities (FAC) through a multifaceted approach that includes physical measures like home hardening and defensible space, as well as prevention, planning and education.

“Creating a Fire Adapted Community with your neighbors empowers property owners to play a role in changing the narrative around preventing property loss and increasing safety,” said Leona Allen, Fire Adapted Community and Firewise Leader. “The process allows neighbors to enhance the health of their environment, protect our neighborhoods, and build stronger community bonds.”

As a resident within the Lake Tahoe Basin, safeguarding your home against potential fire hazards is crucial. The FAC program, facilitated by the Tahoe Fire and Fuels Team (TFFT), operates on a neighborhood scale, coordinating efforts to prepare people and property for wildfire. The TFFT improves forest health and our community’s safety by implementing priority fuel reduction projects such as thinning trees and conducting prescribed burns throughout the region.

“This work to protect communities cannot be completed by local agencies and fire districts alone. Significant community engagement and volunteerism is crucial within Fire Adapted Communities,” said Michelle McLean, Outreach Coordinator, Tahoe RCD.

Neighborhood Leaders play a pivotal role in FAC, rallying their neighbors to work together in preparing for wildfire. Their activities include;

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                                   

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Jan. 16, 2024 – Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) members including North Lake Tahoe, North Tahoe and Tahoe Douglas fire protection districts, California State Parks, Nevada Division of Forestry, and the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit, will continue prescribed fire operations this week at Lake Tahoe, conditions and weather permitting. Smoke may be present throughout the Lake Tahoe Basin and surrounding areas. View smoke management tips and the current air quality index at AirNow and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Forest Service Fire and Smoke Map. View the prescribed fire map with project details and locations at Tahoe Living With Fire. To be added to the prescribed fire notification list, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing fuels that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycling nutrients back into the soil and reducing the spread of insects and disease.

Prescribed fire managers use different methods to remove excess vegetation (fuels) and reintroduce low-intensity fire into forests through pile, broadcast, and understory burning. Pile burning involves burning slash piles that are constructed by hand or mechanical equipment. Broadcast and understory burning use low-intensity fire to remove fuels under specific environmental conditions with fire confined to a predetermined area.

With the recent snowfall and more on the way, it is a good reminder to be aware of avalanche potential and educate yourself on pre-emptive steps to take before going outside to recreate.

In our community, we have two historical avalanche zones, one in Third Creek drainage (terrain above upper Jennifer St., Sutro, Bidwell, Lunar, and Mercury Courts) and one in Crystal Bay (terrain above Lakeview Ave., Tuscarora Rd., and Teresa Court). But avalanches can occur anywhere when the right conditions exist.

When avalanche conditions warrant an alert notification, residents can expect a notification from Washoe County Emergency Management via a reverse telephone notification called Code Red. To receive these notifications (and other alert notifications), register at Washoe County Alerts & Warnings.

Do not travel in the backcountry unless:

• You know where and why avalanches occur.
• You have checked the avalanche forecast in our region. Visit the Sierra Avalanche Center.
• You carry rescue gear and know how to use it.
• You have learned to recognize the five red flags of an avalanche.
• At the very least, take an avalanche awareness course. Seriously consider taking an avalanche rescue course. Local education providers can be found here.
• For avalanche information for our region, visit Washoe County Advisories – Avalanche.

Remember, the best tip is to “Know Before You Go,” the avalanche danger rating is only a starting point. You control your own risk by choosing where, when, and how you travel. See this clip from our recent interview with KPIX-TV CBS affiliate in San Francisco. 

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                                   

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Jan. 8, 2024 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) including North Lake Tahoe, North Tahoe and Tahoe Douglas fire protection districts, California State Parks, Nevada Division of Forestry and the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit, will continue burning slash piles this week at Lake Tahoe, conditions and weather permitting. Smoke from these operations may be present throughout the Tahoe Basin and surrounding areas. View smoke management tips and the current air quality index at AirNow and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Forest Service Fire and Smoke Map. View the prescribed fire map with project details and locations at Tahoe Living With Fire. To be added to the prescribed fire notification list, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing fuels that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycling nutrients back into the soil and reducing the spread of insects and disease.

Prescribed fire managers use different methods to remove excess vegetation (fuels) and reintroduce low-intensity fire into forests through pile, broadcast, and understory burning. Pile burning involves burning slash piles that are constructed by hand or mechanical equipment. Broadcast and understory burning use low-intensity fire to remove fuels under specific environmental conditions with fire confined to a predetermined area.

Are you ready for the New Year? What are some things you can do to be more prepared for what life may bring?

Things like:

Alert Notifications – are you registered?

Knowing that you are prepared for an emergency can help you and your family stay calm, act effectively, and save lives. Work together. Learn about risks. Communicate. Stay informed and register for alert notifications in your county. Also prepare an emergency kit and make an evacuation plan.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                                   

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Jan. 2, 2024 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) including North Lake Tahoe and North Tahoe fire protection districts and the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit, will resume prescribed burning this week at Lake Tahoe, conditions and weather permitting. Smoke from these operations may be present throughout the Tahoe Basin and surrounding areas. View smoke management tips and the current air quality index at AirNow and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Forest Service Fire and Smoke Map. View the prescribed fire map with project details and locations at Tahoe Living With Fire. To be added to the prescribed fire notification list, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing fuels that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycling nutrients back into the soil and reducing the spread of insects and disease.

Prescribed fire managers use different methods to remove excess vegetation (fuels) and reintroduce low-intensity fire into forests through pile, broadcast, and understory burning. Pile burning involves burning slash piles that are constructed by hand or mechanical equipment. Broadcast and understory burning use low-intensity fire to remove fuels under specific environmental conditions with fire confined to a predetermined area.

Winter holidays are a time for families and friends to get together and enjoy the season’s festivities.

Following a few simple tips will help to ensure a happy and fire-safe holiday season.

Preventing Christmas Tree Fires:

• Keep trees watered and away from all heat sources including fireplaces, stoves, and room/space heaters.
• When purchasing an artificial tree, look for the label “Fire Resistant.”
• When the tree becomes dry, promptly discard it. Please consider using the Free Holiday Tree Recycling This service will be available from December 22^nd through January 29^th, 2023.
• Please note – the new location for tree drop-off is the overflow parking lot across from Incline Beach.

Visit www.yourtahoeplace.com/publicworks or call 775-832-1203.

Contact: Jeff Cowen, Tahoe Regional Planning Agency

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  (775) 589-5278 

Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada – Tahoe’s trees are now draped in snow, and wildfire is not top of mind for most people. The Tahoe Fire and Fuels Team (TFFT), however, is taking action year-round to protect lives, property, and the environment within the Lake Tahoe Basin from wildfire. This collaborative group was formed in 2008 and includes 21 federal, tribal, state, and local conservation, land management, and fire agencies.

“One of the most important ways that we improve forest health and our community’s safety is by implementing priority fuel reduction projects such as thinning trees and conducting prescribed burns,” says North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection Division Chief Isaac Powning, Incident Commander of the TFFT.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                                   

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Dec. 11, 2023 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) including South Lake Tahoe Fire Rescue, North Lake Tahoe and Tahoe Douglas fire protection districts, Nevada Division of Forestry and the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit will continue prescribed burning this week at Lake Tahoe, conditions and weather permitting. Smoke from these operations may be present throughout the Tahoe Basin and surrounding areas. View smoke management tips and current air quality index at AirNow and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Forest Service Fire and Smoke Map. View the prescribed fire map with project details and locations at Tahoe Living With Fire. To be added to the prescribed fire notification list, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing fuels that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycling nutrients back into the soil and reducing the spread of insects and disease.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                                   

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Dec. 5, 2023 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) is scheduled to continue widespread prescribed fire operations this week at Lake Tahoe, conditions and weather permitting. Smoke from these operations may be present throughout the Lake Tahoe Basin and surrounding areas. View smoke management tips and current air quality index at AirNow and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/USDA Forest Service Fire and Smoke Map. To be added to the prescribed fire notification list, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. View the prescribed fire map with project details and locations at Tahoe Living With Fire. Please keep in mind the following units are on hold or complete and in patrol status, which means firefighters are patrolling and mopping up to reduce smoke impacts to communities: Sherlock, Diamond Peak, Lily Lake 1001, Fallen Leaf Units 172/116, and Toads 34.

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing fuels that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycles nutrients back into the soil, and helps reduce the spread of insects and disease.

Prescribed fire managers use different methods to remove excess vegetation (fuels) and reintroduce low-intensity fire into forests through pile, broadcast, and understory burning. Pile burning involves burning slash piles that are constructed by hand or mechanical equipment. Broadcast and understory burning use low-intensity fire to remove fuels under specific environmental conditions with fire confined to a predetermined area.

As the temperature drops outside and we think about using our fireplaces and heating stoves, it is important to remember some safety tips and precautions. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), heating equipment and improper ash disposal are leading causes of home fires during the fall and winter months.

Be warm and safe this season and consider following these safety tips:

• Have heating equipment, chimney, and stove inspected and cleaned by a certified chimney sweep every fall just before the heating season.
• Allow ashes to COOL before disposing of them. Four days or 96 hours is the minimum recommended cooling period for ashes.
• Place completely cooled ashes in a covered metal container. Keep the container at least 10 feet away from the home and other buildings. They should NEVER be disposed of in a plastic garbage box or can, a cardboard box, or paper grocery bag. Never use a vacuum cleaner to pick up ashes.
• The metal container should be placed away from anything flammable. It should not be placed next to a firewood pile, up against or in the garage, on or under a wood deck, or under a porch.
• After sitting for a week in the metal container, check them again to be sure that they are cool. If so, the ashes are safe to dispose of in your trash.
• As a safety precaution keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from a fireplace, wood stove, or any other heating appliance, and create a three-foot “kid-free zone” around open fires. It is important to ensure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying, and never leave a fire unattended, particularly when children are present.

It is important to ensure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying, and never leave a fire unattended, particularly when children are present.

To obtain a free ash can, Incline Village/Crystal Bay, NV residents may fill out an application.  If the required criteria are met, an ash can will be provided. Inside each ash can, residents will find the instructional flyer on how to properly dispose of fireplace ashes. Ash cans will be provided to qualifying residents on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Fire has been a natural part of the Lake Tahoe landscape for thousands of years. These fires were low-intensity, frequent, and created an open forest canopy that supported forest health and a balanced eco system. Prior to 1870 and the European-American settlement, much of the Lake Tahoe Basin burned on average every 5 to 18 years. Things changed drastically when intense logging during the Comstock era in the late 1800s clear cut the entire Lake Tahoe Basin and left the forest decimated. While the forests grew back over the next 100 years, they grew in an unnaturally thick and even-aged state and by 2007, Tahoe’s forests were in a state of emergency. Years of fire suppression, hazardous fuels accumulation, drought, and a warming climate have made Lake Tahoe’s forests extremely vulnerable to catastrophic wildfire.

Additionally, homes and communities have been inserted into Tahoe’s wildfire fuel landscape, furthering the complexity of the situation.

So why do we conduct prescribed fire operations? In short, to pick up where we interrupted mother nature in the1800s. We have a lot of ground to cover from suppressing the natural frequent fires that occurred thousands of years ago, but we have learned that mother nature knows best, and this is the best way to effectively reduce the threat of catastrophic, high intensity fires that now threaten our landscape. We also use other methodologies in tandem with prescribed fire such as manual thinning, logging, and mastication when possible.

In 2007, one of the most destructive fires in Tahoe’s history, the Angora Fire, destroyed 254 homes and structures within hours. Stoked by strong winds and overgrown forests with hazardous fuels, this fire burned 3,100 acres before being fully contained. This fire was the impetus to the Emergency Bi-State Fire Commission being formed. Collaborative efforts with federal, state and local stakeholders, the first Multi-Jurisdictional Fuel Reduction and Wildfire Prevention Strategy was created as a guiding document to reduce the risk of catastrophic fire and protect the social and ecological values in the Lake Tahoe Basin. This new ten year ‘strategy’ was essentially a compilation of the Community Wildfire Protection Plans from the local Tahoe Basin fire districts, the Wildland Urban Interface Plan, and the 2007 USFS Fireshed Assessment.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.             

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Nov. 13, 2023 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) is scheduled to continue prescribed fire operations over the next several weeks at Lake Tahoe, conditions and weather permitting. Recent precipitation and low temperatures have provided ideal conditions and opportunities for firefighters to burn in multiple locations. Smoke from these operations may be present throughout the Lake Tahoe Basin. View smoke management tips and current air quality index at AirNow and the U.S. EPA/Forest Service Fire and Smoke Map. To be added to the prescribed fire notification list, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. California Tahoe Conservancy, North Lake Tahoe and Tahoe Douglas fire protection districts and the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit are scheduled to continue burning this week in numerous locations. View the prescribed fire map with project details and locations at Tahoe Living With Fire.

Forest Service firefighters completed burning piles on 160 acres near Watson Creek on the North Shore that will help prevent future severe wildfires near those communities. No further ignitions will take place in those areas, and we anticipate significant air quality improvement over the next several days due to a predicted trend of winds moving back into the area.

Historically, low-intensity wildfires ignited by lightning or native peoples routinely burned through fire-adapted ecosystems of the Sierra Nevada. These low-intensity fires burned at low temperatures and moved slowly across the ground removing forest debris such as pinecones, needles, limbs, dead and downed trees, and ladder fuels. Watch the Forest Service video for an in-depth explanation of low-intensity fire. Prescribed fires are meant to mimic these naturally occurring low-intensity fires that are essential to fire-adapted ecosystems. 

As the colder temperatures and precipitation approach, it is time to prepare to winterize your surroundings and vehicles to stay safe and comfortable.

Here is a checklist to ensure you are well-prepared for the winter season:

Home Preparedness Tips:

• Test smoke alarms/carbon monoxide (CO) alarms regularly in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of your home.
• Keep flashlights, battery-powered lighting, and fresh batteries on hand.
• Turn off portable heaters when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Schedule a professional inspection and servicing for your furnace.
• Have your chimney cleaned and inspected by a qualified professional to prevent chimney fires.
• Look out for your neighbors and offer assistance to those who may require help.
• Remind children to avoid downed wires and report them to the authorities.
• Keep a covered metal container for the disposal of cooled ashes. Residents may request a free ash can by filling out an application available at the Fire District Administration Office, 866 Oriole Way, Incline Village. Visit our website for more information on our Ash Can program.

Travel Tips:

• Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle, including a blanket, change of clothes, flashlight, food, and water.
• Ensure your cell phone is charged and carry it with you.
• Have an ice scraper and snow brush on hand.
• Maintain a full gas tank for emergency situations.
• Check weather updates from the national weather service, state department of transportation, or local media before traveling.

Helpful Contact Phone Numbers/Websites:

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                                      

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Oct. 23, 2023 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) is scheduled to continue fall prescribed fire operations over the next several weeks at Lake Tahoe, conditions and weather permitting. California State Parks is scheduled to continue understory burning at Burton Creek and Sugar Pine Point state parks. California Tahoe Conservancy/Tahoe Douglas Fire Protection District are scheduled to begin burning piles near Crystal Bay. North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District is scheduled to continue understory burning near Incline Village. The USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit is scheduled to continue burning piles on Angora Ridge near Fallen Leaf Lake. Smoke will be present. For the current air quality index, visit AirNow and view the prescribed fire map with project details at Tahoe Living With Fire.

Historically, low-intensity wildfires ignited by lightning or native peoples routinely burned through fire-adapted ecosystems of the Sierra Nevada. These low-intensity fires burned at low temperatures and moved slowly across the ground removing forest debris such as pinecones, needles, limbs, dead and downed trees, and ladder fuels. Watch the Forest Service video for an in-depth explanation of low-intensity fire. Prescribed fires are meant to mimic these naturally occurring low-intensity fires that are essential to fire-adapted ecosystems. 

Prescribed fire managers use different methods to remove excess vegetation (fuels) and reintroduce low-intensity fire into forests through pile, broadcast, and understory burning. Pile burning involves burning slash piles that are constructed by hand or mechanical equipment. Broadcast and understory burning use low-intensity fire to remove fuels under specific environmental conditions with fire confined to a predetermined area.

We would like to thank our community for attending our Emergency Preparedness & Evacuation Forum on Wednesday, October 18, 2023. We appreciate your time and support.

If you were unable to attend in person or remotely, please click HERE for meeting recap.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:                                               

October 18, 2023         

Meghin Delaney, Media Relations Manager 

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

The last day to request chipping and defensible space inspections for the 2023 season is October 29, 2023. To make your online request visit nltfpd.org.

To service all remaining requests for defensible space inspections and chipping in a timely manner and prior to potential inclement weather approaching, the last day to request chipping and defensible space inspections is Sunday, October 29, 2023. However, the Fire District will continue defensible space inspections for construction projects as weather permits. The October 29th closing deadline will allow the Fire District time to complete the last requests for the 2023 season.

For chipping requests, please remember that the pile must be curbside and not exceed 20 feet in length, 6 feet in height, and 6 feet in width. Branch diameter cannot exceed 6 inches, and no stumps, roots, garbage, nails, or finished lumber.

To date, the Fire District has completed 651 defensible space inspections and 194 chipping requests resulting in 864 cubic yards of biomass for the 2023 season.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                                      

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Oct. 16, 2023 – If conditions and weather are favorable for burning, the Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) is scheduled to continue fall prescribed fire operations over the next several weeks at Lake Tahoe. California State Parks is scheduled to continue understory burning through the week at Burton Creek State Park beginning Oct. 17, 2023, and Oct. 25 and Nov. 1 at Sugar Pine Point State Park. North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District is scheduled to begin understory burning on Oct. 23, through Oct. 30. The USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit is scheduled to continue burning piles near Fallen Leaf Lake Road, Tahoe Mountain Road, Meyers, and Camp Richardson through Oct. 20. Smoke will be present. For the current air quality index, visit AirNow and view the prescribed fire map with project details at Tahoe Living With Fire.

Historically, low-intensity wildfires ignited by lightning or native peoples routinely burned through fire-adapted ecosystems of the Sierra Nevada. These low-intensity fires burned at low temperatures and moved slowly across the ground removing forest debris such as pinecones, needles, limbs, dead and downed trees, and ladder fuels. Watch the Forest Service video for an in-depth explanation of low-intensity fire. Prescribed fires are meant to mimic these naturally occurring low-intensity fires that are essential to fire-adapted ecosystems. 

Prescribed fire managers use different methods to remove excess vegetation (fuels) and reintroduce low-intensity fire into forests through pile, broadcast, and understory burning. Pile burning involves burning slash piles that are constructed by hand or mechanical equipment. Broadcast and understory burning use low-intensity fire to remove fuels under specific environmental conditions with fire confined to a predetermined area.

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing fuels that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycles nutrients back into the soil and helps reduce the spread of insects and disease.

The Fire Prevention Week theme this year “Cooking Safety Starts with You. Pay Attention to Fire Prevention.,” is a good reminder for all of us to practice fire safety when cooking” said Fire Marshal John James, North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District (NLTFPD).

NLTFPD offers these key safety tips:

1. Watch what you heat. Always keep a close eye on what you are cooking and set a timer if needed.
2. Turn pot handles to the side or back of the stove to avoid unnecessary spills and potentially, burns from hot food. Always keep a lid nearby when cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan and turn the burner off.
3. Have a “kid and pet free zone” of at least 3 feet around the stove or grill and anywhere else hot food or drink is prepared.

NLTFPD will be hosting station tours for our elementary school students this month focusing on cooking and home fire safety.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                                      

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Oct. 10, 2023 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) is scheduled to continue fall prescribed fire operations this week, conditions and weather permitting. California State Parks is scheduled to continue understory burning through Oct. 20, 2023, in Burton Creek and Sugar Pine Point state parks and the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit may continue burning piles on Angora Ridge near Fallen Leaf Lake and on Echo Summit near Echo Lakes through Oct. 13. Smoke will be present. For the current air quality index, visit AirNow and view the prescribed fire map with project details at Tahoe Living With Fire.

Historically, low-intensity wildfires ignited by lightning or native peoples routinely burned through fire-adapted ecosystems of the Sierra Nevada. These low-intensity fires burned at low temperatures and moved slowly across the ground removing forest debris such as pinecones, needles, limbs, dead and downed trees, and ladder fuels. Watch the Forest Service video for an in-depth explanation of low-intensity fire. Prescribed fires are meant to mimic these naturally occurring low-intensity fires that are essential to fire-adapted ecosystems. 

Prescribed fire managers use different methods to remove excess vegetation (fuels) and reintroduce low-intensity fire into forests through pile, broadcast, and understory burning. Pile burning involves burning slash piles that are constructed by hand or mechanical equipment. Broadcast and understory burning use low-intensity fire to remove fuels under specific environmental conditions with fire confined to a predetermined area.

With the arrival of moisture, higher humidity, and winter weather conditions; effective Monday, October 9, 2023, North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District has lifted the suspension of the use of solid-fuel and charcoal barbeques that has been in place in Incline Village and Crystal Bay, Nevada.

In addition, effective October 9, 2023, outdoor burning is permissible. Permits for open burning of pine needles, slash piles, construction warming fires, and recreational fire pits are available Monday through Friday, free of charge. Please call 775-831-0351, ext. 8107 to schedule an inspection and obtain a permit. Visit our website for more information.

Guidelines for open burning are:

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                                      

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Sep. 25, 2023 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) is scheduled to begin fall prescribed fire operations today, Sep. 25, 2023. If conditions and weather are favorable, California State Parks may conduct understory burning over the next three weeks in Burton Creek and Sugar Pine Point state parks and the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit may begin burning piles on Angora Ridge near Fallen Leaf Lake. Smoke will be present. For the current air quality index, visit AirNow and view the prescribed fire map with project details at Tahoe Living With Fire.

Historically, low-intensity wildfires ignited by lightning or native peoples routinely burned through fire-adapted ecosystems of the Sierra Nevada. These low-intensity fires burned at low temperatures and moved slowly across the ground removing forest debris such as pinecones, needles, limbs, dead and downed trees, and ladder fuels. Watch the Forest Service video for an in-depth explanation of low-intensity fire. Prescribed fires are meant to mimic these naturally occurring low-intensity fires that are essential to fire-adapted ecosystems. 

Prescribed fire managers use different methods to remove excess vegetation (fuels) and reintroduce low-intensity fire into forests through pile, broadcast, and understory burning. Pile burning involves burning slash piles that are constructed by hand or mechanical equipment. Broadcast and understory burning use low-intensity fire to remove fuels under specific environmental conditions with fire confined to a predetermined area.

NV Energy to Continue Resilience Corridors Project Work Near Kings Beach and Incline Village Using Helicopter

Work to begin next week in Northern Nevada

NV Energy will be continuing work related to the NV Energy Resilience Corridors Project and the Natural Disaster Protection Plan by removing hazard trees and ground vegetation in the area northeast of Kings Beach and west of Incline Village in Northern Nevada, beginning on or about September 26 and continuing for approximately 3 weeks. The work is aimed at protecting the community and NV Energy’s infrastructure from the increased risk of wildfires and other natural disasters.

Due to the location of the work, a helicopter will be used as heavy logging equipment is unable to access the steep and unstable terrain. Beginning on or about September 26, customers and visitors to the areas can expect to see the helicopter working overhead. There are no anticipated power outages during this work. Intermittent road and trail closures will occur in the area. Visitors and drivers in the area can expect to see logging trucks along the northern extent of Beaver Street, Speckled Avenue, State Route 267, and State Route 28.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                                      

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., Sep. 19, 2023 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) fall-prescribed fire program may begin as early as Monday, Sep. 25, 2023. If conditions and weather are favorable, California State Parks is scheduled to conduct understory burning on approximately 80 acres over the next three weeks in Burton Creek and Sugar Pine Point state parks and the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit may begin burning piles near Fallen Leaf Lake. Smoke will be present. For the current air quality index, visit AirNow and view the prescribed fire map with project details at Tahoe Living With Fire.

Historically, low-intensity wildfires ignited by lightning or native peoples routinely burned through fire-adapted ecosystems of the Sierra Nevada. These low-intensity fires burned at low temperatures and moved slowly across the ground removing forest debris such as pinecones, needles, limbs, dead and downed trees, and ladder fuels. Watch the Forest Service video for an in-depth explanation of low-intensity fire. Prescribed fires are meant to mimic these naturally occurring low-intensity fires that are essential to fire-adapted ecosystems. 

Prescribed fire managers use different methods to remove excess vegetation (fuels) and reintroduce low-intensity fire into forests through pile, broadcast, and understory burning. Pile burning involves burning slash piles that are constructed by hand or mechanical equipment. Broadcast and understory burning use low-intensity fire to remove fuels under specific environmental conditions with fire confined to a predetermined area.

We are excited to welcome DJ Stanton to our North Lake Tahoe Fire family!

DJ was a member of the Rifle Peak hand crew last year. At the end of the fire season, he made the commitment to go to paramedic school. He attended Truckee Meadows Community College last fall and completed his internship with Truckee Meadows Fire & Rescue.

DJ lives in Reno with his dog Symba and enjoys anything outdoors. In the summer he likes to hike, golf and rumor has it he plays a mean game of cornhole. In the winter you can find him skiing and snowboarding.

Welcome, Ben, we are so happy you’ve joined our North Lake Tahoe Fire family!

Ben lives in Truckee, California with his wife Arica, and his Australian pup, Emmie. He attended Chico State University and majored in Geography. Ben worked with our Rifle Peak hand crew in 2017 for two years before attending the Butte Fire Academy in 2019.

Soon after finishing the fire academy in 2019, Ben was brought on with the Penn Valley Fire Department for his internship and concurrently attended Paramedic School at NCTI in Roseville, California.

Starting Monday, September 11, 2023, through Friday, September 15, NV Energy will be conducting hazardous fuels reduction work in the area of upper Tunnel Creek Road.

Expect vehicle traffic traveling up and down Tunnel Creek Rd., Monday, September 11, 2023, through Friday, September 15, 2023.

There will also be hazardous fuels reduction work on the south side of Ski Way, above the Diamond Peak parking lot (behind the ski lodge), and helicopter activity with intermittent trail closures.

Since 2003, September has been celebrated as National Preparedness Month. Disasters and emergencies can happen anywhere, at any time, and now is the time to prepare.

This year's theme, “Take Control in 1, 2, 3,” highlights the importance of preparation by taking three essential steps - assess your needs, create a plan, and engage your support network:

1. Assess your needs and make a plan
2. Assemble a Kit
3. Stay Informed and engage your support network

If you have these three components in place you will be able to navigate an emergency much quicker with less stress.

We are extremely excited to welcome Richard Templeman to our North Lake Tahoe Fire family!

Richard comes to us with 11 years of experience as a paramedic. Starting out as an EMT in 2010, he then attended paramedic school in Flagstaff, Arizona, and took his first job as a critical care paramedic in Louisiana. He has experience as a critical care paramedic in Texas, Arizona, and most recently Reno, Nevada with REMSA/Care Flight.

Richard lives in Sparks Nevada with his wife Michelle, two boys, Hank the pup, and Jacopa the cat. He enjoys jiu-jitsu and everything outdoors including trail running and hiking.

Incline Village, NV – This Labor Day weekend keep safety in mind as you enjoy the last days of summer while recreating outdoors.

Although the temperatures are trending a bit lower, we are still under fire restrictions in Incline Village and Crystal Bay, Nevada which means no burning of wood or charcoal. Propane or gas barbeques that meet the clearances per manufacturer recommendations are allowed. All forms of open flame are prohibited during red flag warning conditions. The National Weather Service (NWS) Reno issues Red Flag Warnings to alert land management officials and fire agencies when the potential of critical weather that could lead to wildfire activity. We urge our citizens to check the weather before participating in outdoor activities.

A lake wind advisory is in effect from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, September 1st for Lake Tahoe.

Some water safety reminders:

Incline Village, NV - The North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District (NLTFPD) is warning of an increased risk of water rescues at Lake Tahoe due to the cold water temperatures. The water temperature at Lake Tahoe is currently 67 degrees, which is considered cold water. Cold water can quickly lead to cold water shock, swim failure, and hypothermia, which can be deadly.

“We have already responded to several water rescues this summer,” said NLTFPD Fire Chief Ryan Sommers. “We want to remind everyone to be aware of the dangers of cold water and to take precautions to stay safe.”

Here are some water safety tips for Lake Tahoe:

North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District (NLTFPD) responded to a report of a medical rescue at Bonsai Rock. While our paramedics attended to the patient a drowning occurred at the same beach. M12 responded to transport the first patient while E11, M11 crews hiked down to the drowning victim and took over resuscitation initiated by bystanders.

The drowning victim was transported on a Nevada Department of Wildlife boat to Sand Harbor with our crews resuscitating the patient. The patient was transported by CalStar 6 to Renown Medical Center.

Coordinated efforts like this are only possible by regional response design. A trained and educated public, with early recognition and activation of the emergency response system, providing timely, coordinated care. We would like to thank all our agency partners for their assistance and support: WCSO, Marine 6, USCG, NDOW, Nevada State Parks and CalStar 6.

We are excited to welcome Paul Jones, our new mechanic, to the NLTFPD family!

Paul comes to us with a wealth of experience, having served as the Shop Foreman at the Department of Defense base in Stead, NV for the past 5 years. He is also a First Sergeant with the 609th Combat Engineer Company in Fallon, NV, and has been deployed to Afghanistan, Poland, the Dominican Republic, and Haiti.

Paul is a highly skilled mechanic with a passion for his work. He is also a dedicated family man who enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife, three children, and St. Berdoodle, Pongo. Paul is a country music fan and loves playing the drums with his daughter.

Summer is in full swing, and at the North Lake Tahoe Fire District, we're here to help you lower the risk of wildfires affecting your property. Take advantage of our three amazing programs to enhance your fire safety with ease!

1. Claim Your Free Chipping Services:

Click the link below to schedule your free chipping service: https://reserve.chipperday.com/northlaketahoe

Hurry! Chipping requests are addressed on a first-come, first-served basis. Although our crews are actively responding to wildfires, we promise to get to your chipping pile as soon as possible. Let's work together to maintain these essential free services!

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                        

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., July 17, 2023 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) is scheduled to continue prescribed fire operations this week at Lake Tahoe. If conditions and weather are favorable, the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit may continue burning piles at Spring Creek near South Lake Tahoe today, July 17, 2023. Prescribed fire ignitions typically begin at 10 a.m. and smoke will be present. For current air quality and smoke information, visit AirNow. View the project map with locations and details at Tahoe Living With Fire.

Prescribed fire managers use different methods to remove excess vegetation and reintroduce low-intensity fire into forests including pile, broadcast, and understory burning. Pile burning involves burning slash piles that are constructed by hand or mechanical equipment. Broadcast and understory burning use low-intensity fire across the ground to remove fuels under specific environmental conditions with fire confined to a predetermined area. Prescribed fires are meant to mimic naturally occurring fire, which is an essential part of many different ecosystems, and produces fire behavior and fire characteristics required to attain resource management objectives.

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing excess vegetation (fuels) that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycles nutrients back into the soil and helps reduce the spread of insects and disease.

Make a plan, assemble a kit, and stay informed – these are key components of emergency preparedness.

Washoe County Emergency Management, in collaboration with the North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District, Washoe County Sheriff's Office, and community partners, will be conducting an evacuation drill in the Second Creek area of Incline Village, NV. The purpose of this exercise is to test the effectiveness of the Regional Evacuation, Shelter, and Mass Care Plan in response to a simulated wildland fire west of the 2nd Creek neighborhood.

The evacuation drill will take place on August 16, 2023, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Residents and local businesses in the designated area are encouraged to participate in the drill and familiarize themselves with the evacuation procedures.

During the drill, residents may receive alerts on their cell phones. If individuals are not already registered to receive emergency alerts, they can visit www.readywashoe.com to register and ensure they stay informed during emergencies.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                        

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., July 10, 2023 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) is scheduled to continue prescribed fire operations this week at Lake Tahoe. Conditions and weather permitting, the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit is scheduled to burn piles at Spring Creek near South Lake Tahoe beginning today, July 10, 2023. Prescribed fire ignitions typically begin at 10 a.m. and smoke will be present. For current air quality and smoke information, visit AirNow. View the project map with locations and details at Tahoe Living With Fire.

Prescribed fire managers use different methods to remove excess vegetation and reintroduce low-intensity fire into forests including pile, broadcast, and understory burning. Pile burning involves burning slash piles that are constructed by hand or mechanical equipment. Broadcast and understory burning use low-intensity fire across the ground to remove fuels under specific environmental conditions with fire confined to a predetermined area. Prescribed fires are meant to mimic naturally occurring fire, which is an essential part of many different ecosystems, and produces fire behavior and fire characteristics required to attain resource management objectives.

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing excess vegetation (fuels) that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycles nutrients back into the soil and helps reduce the spread of insects and disease.

Contact(s):  Kim George This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  530-542-6037 South Lake Tahoe Fire Rescue

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev. - Wildfire preparedness and defensible space are buzzword terms especially around springtime and throughout the warm seasons.  The Caldor Fire demonstrated the reality of fire threat in Tahoe and the burn scar is a regular reminder.  Additionally, we are facing growing challenges caused by the changing climate. 

As our seasons seem to be warmer and windier, the fire threat increases.  As we’ve seen over the last several years the0 trend is wildland fires becoming larger, more erratic and more costly.  In recent years, it has become common for fires to become ‘complex fires’, meaning 2 or more fires meeting becoming a massive event i.e. the Dixie Fire. 

In 2022, an estimated 1.2 billion dollars were spent to mitigate wildfires in California (2023, Statista.com).  While the threat of fire is significant there is plenty of work that can be done to mitigate that threat.  There are ways to protect your property from wildfire and give your home and your community the best possible potential for survival through a firestorm.  Wildfire awareness and preparedness is essential because all of Lake Tahoe is in the wildfire urban interface. 

To prevent dangerous wildfires and injuries, the use of fireworks and solid fuels is forbidden. Effective from June 26, 2023, the North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District has imposed summer fire restrictions until further notice. These restrictions include a complete ban on the use of fireworks and solid fuels, including but not limited to sparklers, snakes, firecrackers, rockets and charcoal and wood. Please be aware that this restriction also applies to the charcoal grilling areas in IVGID parks and beaches. By complying with these regulations, we can minimize fire hazards and ensure the safety of our community.

Please note that federal and state lands campfire restrictions may differ. Check the local fire restrictions pertinent to your location.

This is also a reminder during Red Flag Warnings, all sources of outdoor open flame, including gas fire pits/grills and pellet grills/smokers are prohibited.

Summer fire restrictions will be in effect June 26, 2023, for the North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District serving the communities of Incline Village and Crystal Bay, Nevada, until further notice. Fire restrictions prohibit the use of solid fuel, which includes charcoal and wood. This also applies to the IVGID parks and beach charcoal grilling areas.

Please note that federal and state lands campfire restrictions may differ. Check the local fire restrictions pertinent to your location.

This is also a reminder during Red Flag Warnings, all sources of outdoor open flame, including gas fire pits/grills and pellet grills/smokers are prohibited.

The National Weather Service (NWS) Reno issues Red Flag Warnings to alert land management officials and fire agencies when the potential of critical weather that could lead to wildfire activity. We urge our citizens to check the weather before participating in outdoor activities.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                        

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., June 15, 2023 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) is scheduled to resume prescribed fire operations next week at Lake Tahoe. Conditions and weather permitting, the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit is scheduled to burn piles on the east side of Fallen Leaf Lake beginning Tuesday, June 20, 2023. Ignitions typically begin at 10 a.m. and smoke will be present. For current air quality, visit AirNow. For details, view the project map at Tahoe Living With Fire.

Prescribed fire managers use different methods to reintroduce low-intensity fire into forests including pile, broadcast, and understory burning. Pile burning involves burning slash piles that are constructed by hand or mechanical equipment. Broadcast and understory burning use low-intensity fire across the ground to remove fuels under specific environmental conditions with fire confined to a predetermined area. Prescribed fires are meant to mimic naturally occurring fire, which is an essential part of many different ecosystems, and produces fire behavior and fire characteristics required to attain resource management objectives.

Our annual Summer Water Safety Program was a great success at Sand Harbor – Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park. Thank you to our agency partners, IVIGD Recreation Center – Aquatics, for their support with lifeguard and water safety instruction, and thank you to Nevada State Park for allowing us to continue our program by moving it to Sand Harbor Beach. We would also like to extend a special thank you to Raley’s at Incline for donating the food for the barbeque lunch.

This program has been taught for over 27 years, focusing on water, boating, and sun safety topics geared toward our 3^rd – 5^th grade elementary school students. It is taught at the end of the school year in hopes that students will remember this life-saving information as they head for the beach and lake to recreate over the summer.

We wish all our students, teachers, and faculty a safe and enjoyable summer!

FIRE ASIDE IS A SOFTWARE PLATFORM THAT SUPPORTS FIRE AGENCIES AND FIRE SAFE COUNCILS IN THEIR MISSION TO HELP COMMUNITIES ADAPT TO WILDFIRE.

Incline Village, NV (June 2023) North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District has implemented Fire Aside’s Defensible Space Evaluation (DSI) software as part of an expanded commitment to improve residents’ wildfire resilience, funded by Parasol Tahoe Community Foundation.

Parasol Tahoe Community Foundation is a nonprofit public charity that is dedicated to supporting the Tahoe region, and its Tahoe Fire Safe Initiative was created to fund fire prevention strategies in the Tahoe Basin, focusing on people and property.  “Fire prevention and safety remains one of the Community Foundation’s top priorities,” says the Community Foundation’s CEO Claudia Andersen. “The Fire Aside software directly addresses the mission of our Tahoe Fire Safe Initiative and is an important way for us to invest in the safety of our community now and into the future.”

June 1, 2023

Contact: Tia Rancourt                                                                                        

Public Education/Information Officer             

North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District                                      

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Contact: Zip Upham

RENO, Nevada, May 22, 2023  – Washoe County Emergency Management, in collaboration with North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District, Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District, City of Sparks,  City of Reno, Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe, and Reno-Sparks Indian Colony, is rolling out a new public safety map that will help residents identify the location of current large-scale emergencies, evacuation areas and road closures.

Perimeter is a new mapping software that allows first-responders to enter incident locations and draw a perimeter around evacuation zones or map road closures, and instantly share with the public.

This does not replace the alert notification system that residents have signed up for, but rather provides more comprehensive and up-to-date information as part of the alert. A link will come through in the alert and individuals can simply visit the public map here and see if they are in an affected area.

In step with the Lake Tahoe Multi-Jurisdictional Fuel Reduction and Wildfire Prevention Strategy, the Lake Tahoe Multi-Agency Coordinating Group and Tahoe Fire and Fuels Team are in the process of updating the 2015 Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP). This basin-wide guiding document serves as the operating strategy and platform for fuels reduction and mitigation work in the Lake Tahoe Basin.

As one of the Tahoe Basin communities, the North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District along with the Tahoe Resource Conservation District, is hosting a public stakeholder meeting on June 1^st to gather community input to contribute to the development of the 2023 CWPP. The meeting will be held in our training room at 863 Tanager Street, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Please join us to learn more and give your input.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                        

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., May 15, 2023 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) will continue prescribed fire operations this week at Lake Tahoe. Conditions and weather permitting, the Nevada Division of Forestry and the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit are scheduled to continue burning piles along the East Shore beginning today, May 15, 2023. Smoke will be present. For current air quality, visit AirNow. View the project map with locations and details at Tahoe Living With Fire.

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing excess vegetation (fuels) that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycles nutrients back into the soil and helps reduce the spread of insects and disease.

Spring typically experiences cooler temperatures and precipitation, which are ideal for conducting prescribed fires. Each operation follows a specialized burn plan, which considers smoke dispersal conditions, temperature, humidity, wind, and vegetation moisture. All this information is used to decide when and where to burn. 

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                        

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., May 9, 2023 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) will continue prescribed fire operations this week at Lake Tahoe. Conditions and weather permitting, Tahoe Douglas Fire Protection District and the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit are scheduled to continue burning piles along the East Shore beginning today, May 9, 2023. Smoke will be present. For current air quality, visit AirNow. View the project map with locations and details at Tahoe Living With Fire.

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing excess vegetation (fuels) that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycles nutrients back into the soil and helps reduce the spread of insects and disease.

Spring typically experiences cooler temperatures and precipitation, which are ideal for conducting prescribed fires. Each operation follows a specialized burn plan, which considers smoke dispersal conditions, temperature, humidity, wind, and vegetation moisture. All this information is used to decide when and where to burn. 

Celebrated nationally during the third week of May, this special week acknowledges the outstanding services performed by our first responders nationwide “Our front line personnel are truly where emergency services and care begin, and we would like to take this opportunity to publicly thank them for their service” said Fire Chief Ryan Sommers.

This year’s theme, “Where Emergency Care Begins” recognizes our first responders who provide emergency medical services in our communities across the country. This 48th annual event brings together local communities and medical personnel acknowledging our first responders not just during this week, but every day as they rise to the challenge of every call.

Whether in populated cities, small villages or less populated rural areas, these individuals answer the 911 call no matter what or where the circumstances.

The North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District (NLTFPD) will be celebrating National Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week at the Incline Elementary School over the next few weeks conducting ambulance tours with the students, educating them about the Emergency Medical System, how to recognize a medical emergency, the importance of calling 911, as well as safety and prevention tips.

Agencies Seek Feedback on Community Wildfire Protection Plan 

Contact(s):

Jeff Cowen, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., (775) 589-5278

The North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District is gearing up for fire and fuels reduction activities for the 2023 season.

The District will begin conducting defensible space evaluations and curbside chipping services on May 15, 2023. For more information on these services and to register online, visit www.nltfpd.org.

For curbside yard debris collection dates and information, visit https://www.yourtahoeplace.com/events/yard-waste-collection

North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District will be hosting a Community Blood Drive Friday, May 5, 2023, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the main fire station located at 875 Tanager Street.“Because of you, life doesn’t stop.” Donate blood on Friday, May 5^th.

Food and beverages will be provided courtesy of the Hyatt Regency Resort, Spa & Casino and Mofo’s Pizza.

To make an appointment, please call 877-258-4825 (877-25-VITAL) or visit www.donors.vitalant.org

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                        

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., April 24, 2023 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) will continue prescribed fire operations this week at Lake Tahoe. Conditions and weather permitting, Tahoe Douglas Fire Protection District and the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit are scheduled to burn piles along the East Shore beginning today, April 24, 2023. Ignitions typically begin around 10 a.m. and smoke will be present. For current air quality, visit AirNow. View the project map with locations and details at Tahoe Living With Fire.

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing excess vegetation (fuels) that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycles nutrients back into the soil and helps reduce the spread of insects and disease.

With the healthy amount of snow and precipitation we received this winter, fire restrictions remain lifted and open public burning is allowed in Incline Village and Crystal Bay, Nevada, until further notice.

Please note that on Red Flag Days, no open flame of any kind is allowed. Visit our website for fire weather and burn status.

Permits for open burning of pine needles, slash pile, construction warming fires, and recreational fire pits are available Monday through Friday, free of charge. Please call 775-831-0351, ext. 8107 to schedule an inspection and obtain a permit. Visit our website for more information.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                        

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., April 19, 2023 – The Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) will continue prescribed fire operations this week at Lake Tahoe. The USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit is scheduled to burn hand piles on the East Shore today, April 19, 2023. Ignitions typically begin around 10 a.m. and smoke will be present. For current air quality, visit AirNow. View the project map with locations and details at Tahoe Living With Fire.

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing excess vegetation (fuels) that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycles nutrients back into the soil, and helps reduce the spread of insects and disease.

Contact:  USDA Forest Service, Lisa Herron 530-721-3898 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.                        

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev., April 10, 2023 – If conditions remain favorable, the Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team (TFFT) will resume prescribed fire operations this week at Lake Tahoe. The Nevada Division of Forestry and the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit are scheduled to burn hand piles on the East Shore beginning tomorrow, April 11, 2023. Ignitions typically begin around 10 a.m. and smoke will be present. For current air quality, visit AirNow. View the project map with locations and details at Tahoe Living With Fire.

Prescribed fires are a vital forest management tool used by land managers to help protect communities by removing excess vegetation (fuels) that can feed unwanted wildland fires. Burning excess vegetation also benefits forest health by making room for new growth which provides forage for wildlife, recycles nutrients back into the soil and helps reduce the spread of insects and disease.

As emergency responders, staying safe on the job is our number one priority. With our mission to “Protect Life and Property through efficient delivery of quality community services”, the safety of our personnel is critical to perform our job at the highest level for our citizens and community.

This week we have had the opportunity to train and learn from the experts at Sustainable Workplace Alliance along with Flyers Fuel Transport, learning about fuel tanker rollover incidents and how to properly assess, respond to, and mitigate these types of incidents. This hands-on instruction is an effective way to inform personnel about safety and unique compliance needs related to these types of incidents. The technical knowledge and hands-on learning structure provide a comprehensive platform that will help to guide and protect our first responders on a daily basis.

We are also happy to have some of our neighboring fire districts, North Tahoe Fire, Northstar Fire, and Truckee Fire, join us for this important training.

The winter that keeps on giving is still alive and well! While we are hoping with the official arrival of Spring yesterday that we will see the sun more than snow, until then, “Know Before You Throw.”

Taking advantage of breaks between storms is the best opportunity for snow clearing preparations.

Quick Tip Reminders:

• Look up! Snow accumulations can fall and harm/kill you, depending on their size. Clear roofs of excessive snow and ice buildup, being careful not to damage vents and electrical supplies to the building. Clearing the roof can be dangerous so residents are advised to leave this work to professionals (see OHSA Safety Advisory here).

• Be aware that a roof may collapse with little or no warning. The following warning signs could indicate that you have a danger of roof collapse. You should immediately evacuate the building and notify your local building official, fire department, or contact a structural engineer to determine if the building is safe if you observe the following:

• severe or new roof leaks.
• cracked or split wood members.
• bends or ripples in metal supports.
• recent cracks in walls, gypboard or masonry.
• cracks in welds of steel construction.
• sprinkler heads pushed down below ceiling tiles.
• doors that pop open.
• doors or windows that are difficult to open.
• bowed utility pipes or conduits attached to the ceiling; or creaking, cracking, or popping sounds.

• Look down! Keep all exits clear of snow, so that occupants can escape quickly if a fire, or other emergencies, should occur. Keep in mind that windows should be cleared to allow a secondary means of escape in case the primary means of escape is blocked by fire. Keeping exits clear also allows emergency workers to gain access to your building.

• Look all around! Keep all chimneys and vents clear to prevent carbon monoxide from backing up into the building. Some vents, such as pellet stove vents, may exit the building through a wall and are susceptible to being blocked by excessive snow buildup.

We have seen a significant increase in gas leaks, Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarms, and other hazard-related emergencies resulting from repeated storms and heavy snow.

• Know where your gas meter shed is located and keep it clear. Buildup of snow around natural gas meters and piping, as well as falling ice and snow from rooftops, can create hazards for natural gas customers. Promptly clear snow or ice build-up around meters. Use a broom, not a shovel, whenever possible to avoid causing damage. Keep rooftop areas above natural gas meters and piping clear of ice, icicles and/or falling snow to prevent damage.

• Make sure you have working CO alarms installed in a central location outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home. Test them monthly. If your utility vents are located on the side of your home, make sure to keep them clear as snow accumulation can cause carbon monoxide to back up into the house.

Hopefully following these safety tips will help to alleviate potential winter weather related situations.

With the anticipated warmer weather pattern potentially bringing wet snow and precipitation, sand is available at Washoe County Roads, 625B Mt. Rose Hwy (BYOS, bring your own shovel and, a friend to help!) and we have sandbags at our main fire station, 875 Tanager Street, Incline Village.