Capital Public Radio interviewed Geoff Schladow, director of the UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center and CCWAS trainer, about predicting impacts of climate change on Lake Tahoe and the surrounding region.
Because of its prominence in the landscape, data records in the Tahoe basin go back for decades. This allows scientists to see long-term trends. For example, Schladow commented that, "Springtime, defined by the peak of the spring runoff, is occurring two weeks sooner than it did 40 years ago." In addition, surface waters appear to be warming more than deep water. This may spur algal growth and impede the mixing that contributes to Lake Tahoe's renowned clarity.
Schladow described Lake Tahoe as "a sensitive instrument" whose study may lend insight into understanding climate change impacts and the effect upon the local economy.
For more, see Capital Public Radio for a podcast and transcript.