Nearly 30 pine trees intentionally poisoned in Lake Tahoe’s Nevada side

Authorities are investigating a series of deliberate poisonings that have destroyed nearly 30 pine trees near Lake Tahoe, a popular tourist destination straddling the Nevada and California border. The incidents, which have caused an estimated $300,000 in losses, have targeted trees some believed to be over a century old.

Officials in Nevada reported that 28 trees were poisoned at Burnt Cedar beach, a restricted-access area on the northeast shore of Lake Tahoe. The damage occurred in stages: six trees were affected in 2022, another six in 2024, and 16 more were discovered this year. Authorities stated on Thursday that these events appear connected.

"We take these crimes very seriously and will utilize every available resource to identify and apprehend the person or persons responsible," said the office of Darin Balaam, the Washoe County Sheriff. "The destruction of mature trees in the Tahoe Basin and the environmental damage caused by these deliberate acts are unacceptable." The most recent incidents were reported in late July and early August. On July 24, deputies responded to the beach after detecting a strong odor near a large pine tree. Soil samples collected from the area had an odor consistent with other incidents.

Authorities returned on August 2 after discovering more trees with a substance around their bases. They believe the latest poisoning occurred between 11:30 a.m. on August 1 and 5 a.m. on August 2. Investigators are examining the substance used, collecting soil samples to determine its identity and whether it was used in all incidents. In some cases, holes were drilled near the roots of the pines. The perpetrators could face felony charges due to the extensive damage.

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We take these crimes very seriously and will utilize every available resource to identify and apprehend the person or persons responsible. The destruction of mature trees in the Tahoe Basin and the environmental damage caused by these deliberate acts are unacceptable.