Plan to Relocate Part of Lake Tahoe Golf Course Advances

Up to nine holes of Lake Tahoe Golf Course are one step closer to being moved to Washoe Meadows State Park, part of a California plan intended to protect environmental components on the course.

The California Department of State Parks decided last week to advance the proposal, which would relocate some of the course’s holes to Washoe Meadows State Park. The proposal aims to benefit the environment by moving the holes away from the Upper Truckee River and rehabilitating the meadow where the holes are currently situated.

Despite the fact that the plan could improve the river’s conditions and water quality and protect wildlife on the course, it has raised the ire of local residents and wildlife advocates who would like other alternatives to be explored.

Plan opponents, spearheaded by Washoe Meadows Community, a group of park supporters, fear the move will disrupt native habitat in Washoe Meadows as well as the park’s trails, pre-historic sites and wetlands. Were the holes to be moved, opponents also have expressed concern about irrigation sources and the potential use of herbicides on the site.

The proposal, which requires Tahoe Regional Planning Agency Governing Board approval, is scheduled to go before the board in December.