Trees intentionally poisoned on Lake Tahoe beach, officials say

Authorities are investigating a series of intentional tree poisonings on a beach on Lake Tahoe that have impacted 28 pine trees over three separate poisoning incidents, according to officials.

Sixteen trees were damaged this year, six in 2022 and six in 2024, resulting in an estimated $300,000 in total losses, according to a Washoe County press release.

In the latest incident, deputies from the Washoe County Sheriff's Department discovered a strong-smelling substance thought to be tree poison around the bases of multiple trees on Sunday on Burnt Cedar Beach in Incline Village, Nevada, according to Washoe County.

On July 24, authorities responded to a report of a strong odor coming from the base of a large pine tree that was consistent with previous tree poisoning incidents on the property, the release said.

"The deliberate destruction of these trees is deeply troubling and represents a significant loss for the entire community," Darin Balaam, Washoe County Sheriff, said. "We are taking these repeated incidents seriously and asking anyone with information to come forward so the person responsible can be identified and held accountable."

Investigators have collected soil samples to help determine the substance that was used to poison the trees and whether the same substance was used in each incident, according to the press release.

Authorities said they believe the latest incident occurred sometime between 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 1 and 5 a.m. on Sunday, Aug. 2. Investigators saw a brief light on trail cameras at about 2 a.m. on Sunday and are continuing to investigate video evidence in the area, according to the press release.

Burnt Cedar Beach is a restricted-access beach open only to eligible residents of Incline Village, Nevada and their guests.

The person or persons responsible could face felony-level charges based on the extent of the damages, officials said.

Anyone who has information that may assist investigators is encouraged to contact the Washoe County Sheriff's Office.

Secret Witness added a $1,000 reward for anyone with information leading to the arrest and prosecution of the person or persons involved.