Clean Up the Lake is launching a bold new effort to clean Lake Tahoe’s deepest zones, and in this episode of Sierra Rec Now, we go underwater to understand why it matters.
Host Charlie Pankey talks with Jenny Uvira, Programs Manager at Clean Up the Lake, about cold-water diving, toxic debris, historic artifacts, invasive species monitoring, and how volunteers play a critical role in protecting one of the Sierra’s most iconic alpine lakes.
If you love Lake Tahoe, the Eastern Sierra, or conservation-focused adventure stories, this episode is for you.
This conversation goes beyond cleanup. We discuss:
Why tires and batteries are among the most toxic items found underwater
How underwater currents move debris into deeper zones
The role of diver propulsion vehicles (DPVs) and enriched air (Nitrox)
How Clean Up the Lake works with historians and archaeologists when artifacts are discovered
The connection between lake health, invasive species prevention, and Sierra stewardship
Jenny also shares how listeners can volunteer, even without scuba experience, and how everyday actions around docks, boats, and marinas can prevent future pollution.
This is a must-listen episode for anyone who loves Lake Tahoe, the Eastern Sierra, conservation, diving, or outdoor stewardship.
🔗 Learn more or get involved: https://cleanupthelake.org
📺 Watch Clean Up the Lake’s documentary series: Make A Difference Media
Sierra Rec Now explores the people, places, gear, and events that make the Sierra Nevada one of the most extraordinary outdoor regions in North America.
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🎙️ About Sierra Rec Now
00:00 Introduction & Episode Overview
01:18 Meet Jenny Uvira (Clean Up the Lake)
03:01 2025 Cleanup Projects Across the Sierra
05:19 First 72-Mile Tahoe Cleanup Explained
06:45 Why Deeper Water Holds More Trash
08:31 Cold-Water Diving Conditions in Lake Tahoe
10:17 Underwater Currents & Trash Movement
12:11 Historic Artifacts Beneath the Lake
13:26 Diver Propulsion Vehicles & Nitrox Explained
15:30 Dive Safety & Conservative Planning
16:56 Most Toxic Trash Found Underwater (Tires & Batteries)
19:49 Are People Intentionally Polluting?
20:12 What’s Next for Clean Up the Lake in 2026
22:00 Invasive Species & Lake Monitoring
24:12 How You Can Volunteer & Get Involved
27:21 Jenny’s Favorite Sierra Adventure Spot
27:45 Post-Adventure Food Picks Around Tahoe
28:57 Essential Gear Jenny Never Leaves Behind
30:16 Final Thoughts & 2026 Preview