Lake Tahoe Restricts Personal Watercraft
28 May 1999
New Regulations Take Effect June 1st
In hopes of preserving the natural beauty and integrity of the area, the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) will announce new far reaching regulations today that restricts nearly all personal watercraft on Lake Tahoe.The regulations that go into effect Tuesday, June 1, are based on emissions levels produced by Jet Skiis and similar vehicles. In an event marking TRPA's announcement, Wayne Perach, director of the Nevada State Parks Board, and Jim Baegte, executive director of TRPA, outlined the new restrictions and effects they will make on the ecological balance of the Lake Tahoe Basin. "Lake Tahoe is a unique natural resource and a national treasure. Because it is also a popular recreational destination, we must constantly search for balance so people can continue to enjoy activities such as boating without causing further harm to the sensitive environment," said Baegte. One notable exception to the ban is the Genesis FFI personal watercraft, which uses new engine technology to produce 76 percent lower emmissions than other brands and models. The Polaris Genesis FFI also features a new sound reduction system (PLANET(TM), making it 60 percent quieter than standard personal watercraft. "As a leader in outdoor recreational vehicles, we're proud to accept the responsibility of developing and using the newest technologies to help preserve the environment, while providing fun and excitement for our customers," said Tom Tiller, president and chief executive officer of Polaris Industries Inc.
Additionally, Polaris has contributed new models of its Genesis FFI to sheriff's departments in Douglas and Washoe counties in Nevada and the U.S. Forest Service for a one-year loaner program. The program allows local law enforcement to patrol area beaches aboard environmentally friendly personal watercraft in compliance with TRPA restrictions.
