Truckee.com Insider's Guide Spring 2023

YOUR CLUB-HAUS IN TRUCKEE-TAHOE

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Welcome Spring, Planning for Summer

My oh my what a winter we have had! When I wrote my first introduction back in November, no one could have guessed what an epic winter Truckee and the Tahoe Region would experience this year. This winter brought to light some of the hardest parts about living in snowy mountains--ice dams, ski traffic, canceled meetings, burst pipes, unpredictable driving conditions…but it also showed us what a strong and special community Truckee is. I have never seen so many strangers step up to lend a helping hand, whether it was helping to dig out a neighbor, inviting someone over when they lost power, or helping stranded travelers in the California Welcome Center, Truckee has truly shown me what “community” means.

Get a Jump on Home Improvements

After this winter I think we can all agree that our homes are in need of a little TLC. Did your roof sustain damage this winter or is your driveway cracking? Check out some of our Truckee “spring cleaning” tips that will help to keep your home in tip top shape and ready for summer fun. Check out page 22 to learn more.

Truckee Summer Camps

Some of my fondest Truckee memories are from spending my summers in Truckee and going to summer camp! No matter what your kids are into, Truckee has a summer camp for them. Check out page 12 to learn about all the cool things your kids can do this summer. And don’t forget to sign up early as most of these camps will fill up quickly!

Truckee Summer Staycation

This epic winter is sure to provide an epic summer! There is so much to do and see in and around Truckee in the summer. Why even plan a vacation away? This summer check out some of the more “off the beaten track” areas to camp, some that you even have to boat to. Plan your staycation on page 9.

How To: Open a Business in Truckee

Now that you have survived one of the craziest winters in Truckee are you thinking about a new business venture? We have gathered information that will help you start the process of opening your very own business in Truckee. At the Truckee Chamber of Commerce we are the Voice of Business and we want to make sure that all our current and future businesses are able to thrive. Learn more on page 28.

As the days get longer and the evenings get warmer, I am excited to explore my new community in the spring and summer. The Truckee Chamber is moving forward with our new strategic direction by introducing new programs, convening community leaders, and establishing the Chamber as an essential organization for the Truckee community. We look forward to seeing our business and community members out and about this spring and summer.

Jessica Penman PRESIDENT AND CEO

TRUCKEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EDITOR, TRUCKEE.COM AN INSIDER’S GUIDE

“My oh my what a winter we have had!”

Truckee.com

An Insider’s Guide Spring 2023

EDITOR: Jessica Penman President & CEO Truckee Chamber of Commerce jessica@truckee.com

PUBLISHER: Kathy Hess-Slocum Just Imagine Marketing and Design kathy@justimaginemktg.com

CONTENT DIRECTOR: Tiffany Connolly InBloom Marketing

EDITOR/PRODUCTION: Melissa Williams

DESIGNER: J. Lewis Falconer Art & Design j.lewisfal@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Daphne Hougard Michelle Erskine Truckee Donner Land Trust Tahoe National Forest Service

Truckee.com An Insider’s Guide is a quarterly magazine published by Just Imagine Marketing and Design in cooperation with the Truckee Chamber of Commerce

TRUCKEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 10065 DONNER PASS ROAD TRUCKEE, CA 96161 530-587-8808; INFO@TRUCKEE.COM

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within Truckee.com Insider’s Guide. The Truckee Chamber of Commerce and Just Imagine Marketing and Design assume no responsibility for misinformation. Please contact the Chamber with any additions or corrections.

APRIL 22 Tahoe Truckee Earth Day Festival

MAY 27-28 Made in Tahoe Festival

JUNE 3 Truckee Day - Street Clean Up

JUNE 4 Truckee Running Festival

JUNE 10 Soroptimist Wine & Restaurant Faire

JUNE 11 Truckee Roundhouse Maker Show 2023

TRUCKEE SUMMER STAYCATION

Truckee’s backyard may be the answer when you don’t have time for an epic, faraway journey but you’re itching to spend a night under the stars for a few days. With so many campgrounds within 25 miles of downtown, an accessible family adventure or solo weekend of unplugging is right around the corner. Many of the campground recreation sites also have day use areas, so you can play by the lake or river and then go home to sleep in your own bed.

While most campsites may already be reserved, there are some ways to get in if you’re persistent and flexible. Continuous monitoring of campground websites will reveal cancellations, but timing can be tricky. Consider signing up for Campnab (Campnab.com), a convenient service that asks where, when, and for how long you want to camp, and they’ll crawl the reservation sites every 10-15 minutes and send you an alert when a spot opens up. We’ve tested it, and it works. Plans start at $10.

You can also check or post on the Tahoe Truckee People Facebook page. Sometimes people can’t make their reserved campsite date and post openings there. Otherwise, save this article for reference when planning next summer’s adventures, and mark your calendars now. Most campsites reserve on a 6-month rolling basis, which makes it easy to plan ahead.

Here are some of our favorite campsites for a Truckee Summer Staycation.

© JOHN PELTIER PHOTOGRAPHY

JACKSON MEADOWS RECREATION AREA

Jackson Meadows is part of the Tahoe National Forest and sits just above 6,000 feet. About an hour from Truckee, head down HWY 89 toward Sierraville and take a left on service road #7. Stay left and follow this road for about 17 miles until you find the Jackson Meadows recreation area.

While remote, access is effortless, making it great for families. Truckee-Tahoe is a base camp for mountain adventures, including boating, hiking on the Pacific Crest Trail, fishing for rainbow and brown trout, mountain biking, swimming, water skiing, equestrian camping, and exploring via off-highway vehicle (OHV). Reservations managed by recreation.gov operate on a 6-month rolling basis; however, you can always check back for cancellations.

Family Campgrounds

Family campgrounds include East Meadow (46 sites), Findley (11 sites), Fir Top (10 sites), Pass Creek (25 sites), and Woodcamp (16 sites). Most come with toilets, piped water, picnic tables, fire rings, grills, and bear-proof boxes.

Reservations: (877) 444-6777 or at recreation.gov.

Group Sites

Aspen Campground offers two sites for up to 25 people and one for up to 50.

Reservations: Nevada Irrigation District at (530) 265-5302.

Silvertip Group Campground offers 2 group sites, each holding up to 25 people.

Reservations: Nevada Irrigation District - (530) 265-5302

Boat-in Campground

Access to the ten campsites on the Jackson Reservoir peninsula is by boat only. The grounds offer vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings. There is no piped water.

Reservations: No reservations are needed, and no fees!

Horse Camp

Little Lasier Meadow Horse Camp offers 11 campsites, vault toilets, piped water, picnic tables, fire rings, and grills.

Reservations: (877) 444-6777 or Recreation.gov

PROSSER RECREATION AREA

Prosser Reservoir Campground is located off HWY 89, just a couple of miles out of Truckee, heading toward Sierraville. Campers enjoy open space, OHV trails, and views of the reservoir. Several of the campsites have waterfront beaches.

The campground is known for being quiet and is excellent for standup paddle boarding, fishing, and kayaking. Small motorboats are allowed with an enforced 10 mph speed limit.

Prosser Ranch Group Campground

This tent-only campground is situated on the western shore of the reservoir, up on the hill with a great view of the reservoir in all directions and Northstar to the south and Mount Rose Range to the east. Naturalists will enjoy Jeffrey Pine, fir trees, and sagebrush. One site can accommodate up to 50 people and ten vehicles. It is not suitable for RV camping. Amenities include tables, a large BBQ, a campfire circle vault toilets, and drinking water.

Reservations: Operates on a 12-month rolling basis, so you’ll have to plan to get the weekend reserved. Reserve at recreation.gov.

Lakeside Campground

The Lakeside campground offers 30 single-family campgrounds with picnic tables and campfire rings. Some sites are situated on the reservoir shore, depending on water level. If you look directly across the campground for a tall crag, you can often see a bald eagle perched there.

Vault toilets and potable water are also available.

Reservations operate on a 6-month rolling basis at recreation. gov.

Prosser Family Campground

Note: Prosser Family Campground will not offer potable water for the 2023 season.

The Prosser Family Campground offers 29 individual sites within walking distance of the reservoir’s western shore. The grounds can’t accommodate large RVs. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring with a grill. Vault toilets are provided, and drinking water is usually provided; however, it will not be available for the 2023 season.

Reservations: Individual sites at this campground operate on a 6-month rolling basis at recreation.gov.

BOCA RESERVOIR

Boca Reservoir is located just outside the Glenshire neighborhood. Visitors enjoy boating, water skiing, swimming, and fishing. The Little Truckee River is nearby for catch-andrelease fly-fishing. Other activities include hiking, biking, horseback riding, and trails for OHVs. History buffs will love the Boca Townsite Interpretive Trail, which showcases the “boom and bust” of Boca. This historic town was home to a construction camp for the Central Pacific Railroad, the Boca Mill and Ice Company, and the Boca Brewery. You’ll find it between Boca Dam and the railroad tracks.

Boca Campground

Located on a plateau above the western shores of Boca Reservoir, campers will enjoy sites that overlook the welcoming water. A boat ramp is located less than a mile from the campground. Choose from 20 single-family sites equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring with a grill. Vault toilets are provided, but there is no drinking water.

Reservations: Individual sites at this campground operate on a 6-month rolling basis at recreation.gov.

Boca Rest Campground

Find this campground on the northeastern shores of the reservoir where it meets the Little Truckee River. Twenty single sites are equipped with picnic tables and a campfire ring. Vault toilets and drinking water are available.

Reservations: Individual sites at this campground operate on a 6-month rolling basis at recreation.gov.

STAMPEDE RESERVOIR

Stampede Reservoir is located 30 minutes from Truckee past Boca Reservoir. The area is a beautiful spot to enjoy boating, swimming, water skiing, fishing, hiking, and OHV trails. Anglers will find rainbow and brown trout and kokanee salmon. Hikers and mountain bikers enjoy the nearby Commemorative Emigrant Trail.

Logger Campground

The campground is located on the south side of Stampede Reservoir on the Little Truckee River, approximately eight miles above the confluence of the Little Truckee and Truckee Rivers. Enjoy the forest of ponderosa pine, Jeffrey pine, and fir trees. Launch your boat from the Stampede boat ramp, less than a mile away.

The large campground offers over 200 single, double, and triple-family campsites. Picnic tables and campfire rings with grills are provided, along with vault toilets and drinking water. Groups can use the campground’s amphitheater, accessible by car or the shoreline hiking trail.

Reservations: Individual sites at this campground operate on a 6-month rolling basis at recreation.gov.

THE LITTLE TRUCKEE RIVER

Along HWY 89 toward Sierraville are two campgrounds with locations that offer fishing, hunting, hiking, and biking. Enjoy the flowing river and a forest of lodgepole pine, aspen, and juniper trees. The surrounding area offers hiking and biking trails.

Upper and Lower Little Truckee Campgrounds

Both campgrounds offer sites equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided. The Lower Little Truckee Campground offers 15 single-family campsites, while the Upper Truckee Campground offers 21 single sites and one 20-50 person group site.

Reservations: Individual sites at this campground operate on a 6-month rolling basis at recreation.gov.

GOOSE MEADOW

A paved trail that runs along the Truckee River and offers access to Olympic Valley and Tahoe City makes Goose Meadow a fantastic staycation. Bike into Olympic Valley for an early dinner, or head down to Tahoe City and enjoy the Lake Tahoe shoreline for day trip adventures.

Goose Meadow Campground

Goose Meadow Campground is located between the Truckee River and Highway 89, five miles south of Truckee. It’s situated on the banks above the Truckee River, with forested and shaded sites within walking distance of the river. The 24 single-family campsites have a picnic table, campfire ring, and grill. Each site has a bear box that must be used for food and scented items. Accessible vault toilets and drinking water are also provided.

Reservations: Individual sites at this campground operate on a 6-month rolling basis through recreation.gov.

WEBBER LAKE

Only 25 miles from Truckee, Webber Lake takes you to a place far from the noise of everyday life. Enjoy stargazing, swimming, bird watching, paddle boarding, fishing, mountain biking, hiking, or simply doing nothing. This area was closed to the public for many years, making it a natural sanctuary before Truckee Donner Land Trust purchased it for public use.

Watercraft are welcome, but boaters must observe the 5-mph speed limit. Your craft is likely to be inspected—Sierra Country requires an AIS form to be completed before launching. A boat ramp and trailer parking are available.

From Hwy 89, take Jackson Meadows Road west, about 8 miles to the sign for Webber Lake (before you reach Jackson Meadows Recreation Area). Turn left and proceed down a dirt road for about a quarter mile.

Webber Lake Campground

Webber Lake Campground’s 46 sites are open, spacious, and shaded. Each comes with a table, fire pit, and bear box. Hookups and a dump station are not available. Two campgrounds, one on the north shore and one on the west shore, offer lakeside access.

Reservations: Opened on March 1. If booked, check back frequently for cancellations. Book at truckeedonnerlandtrust.org.

Exploring Donner Lake & Donner Summit Businesses

Donner Lake and Donner Summit are more often thought of for their recreation opportunities than their businesses. Although very much part of Truckee, visiting Donner Lake and the summit areas can make you feel like you’re in a very small, quaint town. With the many public piers lining Donner Lake, Donner Memorial State Park, Campgrounds & Museum, and West End Beach, biking and boating around the lake can feel like you’re on vacation in the summer and fall. Donner Summit businesses like Clair Tappaan are set in the woods with trail access right outside their doors. And the Village at Sugar Bowl very much feels like a European escape.

DISCOVER ALL OF TRUCKEE

Donner Lake Inn Bed & Breakfast

Donnerlakeinn.com

Longtime locals Paul and Mindy Oesterman own this quaint mountain lodge across the street from Donner Lake. Located in the forest along Gregory Creek, conveniently located just 1.2 miles off Interstate 80.Guest rooms are in a separate wing each with a private entrance, gas fireplace, flat screen TV, and private bath. Free WiFi is available throughout the property. Guests rave about the daily homemade hot cooked country breakfast. Guests can enjoy a complimentary afternoon snack and beverage before dinner at one of Truckee’s many restaurants. An outdoor year-round hot tub is available. There are multiple seasonal outdoor seating areas, where guests can relax and visit. West End’s public beach and the boat launch are just a block away. In the winter months, multiple downhill and cross country ski areas are just a short drive away.

Little Truckee Ice Creamery

Truckeeicecream.com

Locals rejoiced when Kenny Blum opened this hand-made premium ice cream shop near the West End of Donner Lake in 2015. They put in an industrial stateof-the-art kitchen, so not only the ice cream, but most of the toppings are made right at the shop. You might think that ice cream would only be popular during the warm summer months, but locals stock up on pints and get their ice cream fix year-round. In addition to the homemade ice cream, with popular flavors including “Truckee Trails” and a non-dairy coconut that is to die for, Little Truckee Ice Creamery also serves coffee, espresso, hot chocolate, and tea. Because of the licensed industrial kitchen, they are also able to offer pop-up meals, such as authentic shredded beef street tacos on Fridays during the spring, fall, and other pop up days. It’s hard to beat Cabeza tacos and ice cream! Check their website for seasonal hours and pop-ups.

The Pub at Donner Lake

Thepubatdonnerlake.com

Donner Lake locals and visitors were thrilled when The Pub at Donner Lake opened in 2019providing a welcome dining spot and full bar at the west end of the lake. The pub’s location was previously a Mel’s Diner, but it was completely refurbished in a contemporary style. They also have a nice outdoor seating area. The pub had to adapt to covid restrictions in their first years in business, with take-out only for much of the time. The Pub is currently closed but they plan to open at least for drinks starting in early summer.

Soda Springs General Store

Sodaspringsgeneralstore.com

Soda Springs locals are thrilled to have Soda Springs General Store & Deli for their one stop shop for fresh deli sandwiches, a great selection of groceries, produce, dairy, snacks, beer, wine, and even ski and snowboard rentals, seasonal apparel, gifts, automotive supplies and much more! Whether you’re heading out for a weekend getaway or exploring Donner Summit for the day, you’ll find what you need at their General Store. It’s conveniently located 1/2 mile from I-80 or Serene Lakes on Historic Highway 40, they are your local supermarket, convenience store, general merchandise and clothing store all in one place. It’s so convenient to stop at Soda Springs General on your way to your next ski trip, picnic, bike ride, or other Donner Summit Adventure!

Sugar Bowl Resort

Sugarbowl.com

One of the oldest ski resorts in California, Sugar Bowl has a storied past with ties to Austrian ski culture, Hollywood and Walt Disney. This special place helped bring skiing to “sunny California,” was home to the state’s first chairlift, and the west’s first ski gondola. Today, Sugar Bowl continues to attract adventurous winter sports enthusiasts who are drawn to the authentic, communitybased experience only offered here.

Taking the gondola across to the Village, you truly feel like you’re in a remote alpine village. Although winter and skiing/riding is Sugar Bowl’s main gig, they offer great dining and shopping options whether or not you’ve spent the day on the slopes. Riding the gondola over for a date night at the Dining Room at Village Lodge is a magical experience, offering California cuisine in a classic high-alpine lodge with a view, prepared by Chef Steve Anderson. Enjoy the cozy wood-burning fireplace and selections such as Scottish seared salmon, vegetarian penne pasta, or elk tenderloin, complete with an extensive wine selection to perfectly complement the experience. Every Thursday is local’s night - show your driver’s license that lists your address as Nevada or Placer County to score a 15% local’s discount on your meal.

Donner Lake Village

Donnerlakevillage.com

Donner Lake Village on the West end of Donner Lake is on the water with its own marina providing easy access to many recreational activities, including canoeing, swimming, fishing, kayaking, water skiing, jet skiing, motor boating and more. The Lodge offers beautiful lake views from many of the comfortable rooms. Some of the units also have kitchens and the staff is friendly and helpful. Enjoy drinks as you watch the sunset from their beautiful deck or lounge.

TRUCKEE SUMMER CAMPS

Camps are incredible opportunities for kids, helping them create new friendships, develop social skills, encourage decision-making, and promote independence. Camps can also take pressure off parents by keeping kids off screens, introducing them to possible new interests, and teaching them about the world around them. Sometimes camps teach life skills too, like water safety, and how to be stewards of our environment.

As Truckee’s population and popularity grows, getting your kids into a summer camp can be pretty competitive. With preparation, a little research, and getting on waitlists, your chances of snagging a spot increase. We’ve rounded up some of Truckee-Tahoe’s best camps for kids of all ages and interests. Check Truckee.com for more summer camp info, including all of the Tahoe Donner, Tahoe Expedition Academy, and Truckee Community Theater summer camps.

TRUCKEE DONNER RECREATION & PARK DISTRICT (TDRPD) SUMMER CAMPS

tdrpd.org/178/Summer-Camp | 530-550-4463

The Truckee Donner Recreation and Park District is Truckee’s most affordable summer camp. Campers age 5 through 9th grade are welcome to attend and enjoy quintessential Truckee activities, including swimming at West End Beach on Donner Lake, hiking, skating, bowling, climbing, golfing, rafting, ropes courses, and more (activities vary depending on age group). Camps are broken up by age and run all summer long, and parents can pick which days to send their kids. If camps are full this year, mark your calendars for May to get on the list for next year.

HEADWATERS SCIENCE INSTITUTE

headwatersscienceinstitute.org/science-camp/truckee-summer-sciencecamp/ | (530) 426-3063

Budding scientists ages 5-13 will love the Headwaters Science Institute’s Truckee Young Scientist Exploration Camp. It hosts two sessions in August— one focused on water and one on animals and insects.

Campers will have the opportunity to explore the unique ecology of our area through hands-on science activities. They’ll take advantage of the Truckee Donner Land Trust’s new Truckee Springs park in Downtown Truckee, where they’ll connect with the landscape of the Sierra. The “Water” session teaches kids about water quality measures, macroinvertebrates, and so much more. The “Animals and Insects” session gives kids a chance to observe local wildlife and wildlife signs, learn about the diversity of insects, and more. Registration this year opened on February 1. If camps are full, you can join the waiting list.

TRUCKEE ROUNDHOUSE

truckeeroundhouse.org | 530-582-4007

Ceramics, sewing, upcycling - all of your favorite Roundhouse Kids Camps are back this year. All camps are open to kids ages 8-11 and the cost is $295 per 5-day session, with 20% off for Roundhouse Members.

In Ceramics Camp, students learn to use clay as both a functional and artistic medium. Lessons are geared around learning the different stages of clay, hand building, and wheel throwing techniques, along with surface treatments and glaze application. June 19-23 or August 14-18.

For their Sewing/Textiles Shop Camp, students learn the basics of machine sewing, serging, hand sewing, pattern use, and construction. Projects are designed to encourage individual creative design, practice problem-solving skills, and build confidence. Perfect for kids who are new to sewing or interested in building their skills. July 10-14 or August 14-18.

Not sure which to choose? Truckee Roundhouse is also offering a one-week combined Sewing and Ceramics Camp August 7-11.

Roundhouse even offers an Upcycled Makers Camp! Students creatively reuse and recycle – learning basic construction principles and how to safely use tools, all while expressing their creativity and learning problem-solving skills. Instruction includes the use of hot glue guns, drills, drivers, fasteners, wire, and hand tools. The importance of upcycling, recycling, and how to reduce the consumption of plastics is emphasized. Offered July 24-28.

TAHOE INSTITUTE OF NATURAL SCIENCE

tinsweb.org/north-shoretruckee-camps | 775-298-0060

A creepy crawly camp for kids! In June or July, depending on which session you choose, Tahoe Institute of Natural Science (TINS) teaches kids ages 6-8 all about bugs! Campers look under rocks and logs, in plants, and all over the landscape for Truckee insects. They’ll learn what the bugs eat, their jobs in our ecosystem, and more. For kids ages 9-12, the Explorers Camp teaches campers all about Tahoe’s wildlife and watershed, forest ecology, and the geology of the Sierra Nevada.

Registration is open now. Visit their website to learn more.

SUGAR BOWL

sugarbowl.com/summer-camp

Sugar Bowl offers week-long camps to kids ages 4-15, including a mountain biking camp for older kids. Sugar Bowl campers can hike, climb, swim in alpine lakes, and more.

You can’t beat their location! Sugar Bowl’s Camp is adjacent to world-class trail systems (including the Pacific Crest Trail) between Sugar Bowl and Royal Gorge, Lake Mary - a beautiful high alpine lake, Judah Lodge, Village Hall, and the Sugar Bowl Academy Campus.

This year, Sugar Bowl is offering two new camps, the Pine Marten camp and Mountain Bike Camp. Pine Martens is for kids aged 10-12. Their time is less structured than the other camps, while still under the watchful eye of the counselors. This allows for individual growth and independence. Daily, Pine Marten activities include; rock climbing, paddle boarding, fishing, mountain Capture the Flag, tye dye, “trashionshows” and more.

The Sugar Bowl Mountain Bike camp is for riders ages 13-15 who have completed a ride of 12 miles or more before starting with the camp. It will be led by Sugar Bowl’s NICA (National Interscholastic Cycling Association) certified mountain bike coaches who run and coach SBSTA’s freeride program in the winter, although the camp is not a NICA sanctioned event. This focuses primarily on cross-country mountain biking utilizing the extensive trail system of Sugar Bowl/Royal Gorge Resort. Campers will have plenty of fun in all aspects of “all-mountain” biking and may include day trips to other local trail systems or bike parks. Instruction and activities related to bike maintenance and repair, general physical conditioning/stretching and body awareness, goal setting, and character development will also enhance the Mountain Bike camp experience.

Registration for 2023 is now open. If camps are full, inquire about the waiting list.

WOODWARD TAHOE

rideboreal.com/summer-camp/camp-overview/overview campinfo@woodwardtahoe.com

Woodward Tahoe, just east of Donner Summit is Lake Tahoe’s ultimate hub for adventure with 16 acres of outdoor parks, lift-served mountain bike trails, and a 33,000 square-foot indoor action sports hub called The Bunker. Offering 6 different day summer camps, they put the focus on fun to get the newest generation of athletes started and keep them coming back for more.

Week-long Woodward Day Camps are offered starting the week of June 5 through August 11. Camps are open to kids ages 7-17 of all abilities. Check out their scholarship application as well.

• Multisport Camp

• Skateboard Camp

• BMX Camp

• Mountain Bike Camp

• Parkour Camp

• Scooter Camp

Woodward’s Multisport Camp curriculum provides instruction in several Woodward programs. In particular, campers receive instruction in skateboarding, scooter riding, BMX, mountain biking, and parkour. Campers do not need to bring any equipment besides a helmet because sport-specific rental equipment is provided (skateboards, scooters, BMX and MTB bikes). Any child can participate in this camp, gain skills and confidence, and progress into a single sport program when ready. This program includes instruction in other activities like obstacle courses, trampolines, hiking, and rock climbing on their outdoor wall.

Single sport programs also offer flexibility - with free choice time in the afternoons, campers can try other sports as well.

HUMANE SOCIETY OF TRUCKEE-TAHOE

hstt.org/programs-services-resources/kids-summer-camps/ | (530) 587-5948

The Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe Edventure Camp for kids ages 7-11 is a fun-filled week of making new friends (four-legged and well as two-legged), gaining new knowledge about animals, and learning all about the Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe! Edventure camp is a week-long camp that revolves around the theme of pet care. Kids learn about safety around animals and how to care for pets properly. There are exciting speakers each day, games, activities, crafts, and of course, a lot of hands-on opportunities with shelter animals of all shapes and sizes! Session 1, for kids 7-8, runs July 10-14. Session 2, for kids 9-10, runs from July 17-21.

Space is limited, with only 20 campers per session. Registration opens at 8:00 a.m. on April 12. Find more information at hstt.org or email Erin Ellis, Community Engagement Director, at erin@hstt.org.

SPRING “CLEANING” TRUCKEE STYLE

Spring is around the corner, the snow is starting to melt after our snowmageddon 2023, and your home is revealing more of its winter stresses. Snowblowers, plows, ice dams, and heavy snow loads can lead to chipped paint, gouged decks, wrecked gutters, torn-up driveways, and more.

While surveying your property can lead to overwhelm, take the stress off by monitoring damage one item at a time. Figure out what you can do yourself, and determine where you’ll need to hire help. Contractors book up fast, so get in touch with one today if you know you’re ready to move forward with improvements. The lists below will help get you started.

DECKS, PAINT, SIDING + ROOFS

Our decks and patios are an additional room in the summer months, opening up outdoor space for kids to play, entertain, read, relax, and enjoy the backyard songbirds. Having our deck look its best, and making improvements for safety makes the space that much more enjoyable. Winter snow loads, shovels, and snowblowers can wreak havoc on the integrity and aesthetics of our decks. But with some elbow grease or hired help, your outdoor living takes on a new feel when your deck is primed and prepped.

If the snowmelt reveals chipped or scraped paint or siding, this might be the year to update your home’s exterior. Paint and stain are less expensive and relatively easy, but it doesn’t last as long as new siding, which

can last up to 50 years. If you don’t have the funds for new siding, paint or bi-annual staining does a great job of sprucing up your home and boosting curb appeal.

How are your roof and gutters? Schedule a contractor to come out and inspect your roof and check for any winter damage. They’ll also know the best materials for your situation, which depends on the slope, amount of snow, cost, and more.

Local Contractors:

Meng Construction | (530) 587-7500 | mengconstruction.com

Truckee Custom Homes | (530) 205-7701 | truckeecustomhomes.com

GLA Morris Construction | (530) 587-2711 | gla-morris.com

Becker Construction Group LLC | (530) 536-6559 | beckerconstructiongroup.com

Heslin Construction | (530) 214-8930 | heslinconstruction.com

Mt. Lincoln Construction | (530) 582-8174 | mtlincoln.com

Mark Tanner Construction, Inc | (530) 587-4000 | marktannerconstruction.com

DLP Construction & Painting, Inc. | (530) 414-3270 | dlpconstructioninc.com

CATT is a great resource also. | ca-tt.com

REMODELING

Don’t put off that bathroom remodel that you’ve always wanted. Home improvements can not only enhance your quality of life, they will increase the value of your house. While you may be able to take on some projects yourself, others require a contractor with insurance and possibly permits from the town. Now is the time to book summer home projects, as their schedules fill up fast.

Asphalt Pavers:

Painting Contractors:

Kelly Brothers Painting Inc. | (530) 550-0806 | kellybrotherspainting.com

Castle Peak Painting Co. | (530) 587-4238 | castlepeakpainting.com

Elements Mountain Co. | (530) 582-0300 | elementsmtn.co

Easterbrook Painting, Inc. | (530) 550-9332 | easterbrookpainting.com

DRIVEWAYS

Advanced Asphalt | (530) 582-0800 | aasphalt.com

Elements Mountain Co. | (530) 582-0300 | elementsmtn.co

Robert E. Sutton Company Inc. | (530) 587-4161 | suttonasphalt.com

Shaffer Paving Inc. | (530) 587-1125 | shafferpaving.com

Truckee driveways take a significant beating over the winter, especially if you use a snow removal service. Driveways should be resealed every two to three years to prevent damage like cracking and breaking. However, if you’re experiencing deep cracks, potholes, and drainage issues, it might be time to replace the whole thing. Get a quote, and obtain the correct permit from the Town of Truckee.

SIERRA GARDENING + LANDSCAPING

Gardening offers space for meditation, sanctuary, learning, and growth. New shoots, fragrant blooms, herbs, vegetables, and fruits, make gardening incredibly rewarding. They allow us to dig in, access our roots, turn off our technology, and experience Truckee’s landscape with all five senses.

While gardening is notoriously tricky in the High Sierra, it is doable, especially if you take advantage of local resources and embrace local foliage in your landscape planning. Make your garden work for you and Truckee by adopting “water-wise” landscaping, which supports biodiversity and local pollinators, saves resources, and exists in harmony with the local, natural environment. For detailed Truckee gardening and landscape tips from Eric Larussen of Villager Nursery and Erik Neu of Rock & Rose, see the Spring 2022 issue of Truckee.com: An Insider’s Guide on Truckee.com.

“Planning for water efficiency is an extremely important component of landscape planning in the arid west. A well-planned and water-efficient landscape not only helps the environment, but it also helps you avoid unnecessary headaches and heartaches over foiled plantings and disappointing designs.” - UCCE Master Gardeners of Lake Tahoe

Five Tahoe-Friendly, Water-Wise Plants

• Showy Penstemon spp., Penstemon

• Blanketflower, Gaillardia pulchella

• Wooly Speedwell, Veronica incana

• Stonecrop, Sedum spp.

• Ninebark, Physocarpus

Water Conservation Tips

• Be detailed in planning and design

• Use water-efficient plants

• Use water-efficient irrigation

• Use mulch to reduce evaporation

• Create practical turf areas

• Care for your soil

• Practice appropriate maintenance

Local Resources:

Villager Nursery

For plants, advice, soil, and more Villagernursery.com

Slow Food Lake Tahoe

For grow-your-own workshops Slowfoodlaketahoe.org

Local Landscapers:

DeLux Landscaping | (530) 448-8144 | deluxlandscaping.com

Duviv Gardens Inc. | (415) 446-9344 | duvivgardens.com

Grateful Gardens | (530) 550-9372 | gratefulgardens.biz

Peak Landscape | (530) 587-4269 | peaklandscapeinc.com

Sierrascape | (530) 582-9955 | sierrascape.com

Rock & Rose | (530) 550-7744 | rocknrose.com

DEFENSIBLE SPACE

Whether you’re new to Truckee or a longtime local, it’s everyone’s responsibility to ensure defensible space exists around homes and businesses. When we work together, we reduce the chance of wildfire. Again, you can tackle defensible space or hire a local contractor.

Defensible Space Contractors:

Alpentree Experts | (530) 448–1194 | alpentree.com

Ben’s 1-888-Zap-Haul, Inc. | (530) 428-5530 | zaphaul.com

Defensible Space & Land Clearing Systems | (888) 336-1389 | defensiblespacesystems.com/truckee

Elements Mountain Co. | (530) 582-0300 | elementsmtn.co

Timberwolf Tree Service | 530-386-3340 | timberwolfetreeservice.com

Truckee Defensible Space | (530) 536-0365 | truckeedefensiblespace.com

YFR Tree & Land Management | (530) 205-3352 | yubaforestrestoration.com

Pick up a self-inspection form and learn more about defensible space requirements at truckeefire.org/dspace.

Defensible space checklist:

• Remove all combustible materials from beneath decks, stairways, and overhangs.

• Remove all dry, flammable vegetation within 100 feet of structures.

• Move firewood piles at least 30′ away from structures

• Thin trees and remove ladder fuels at least 6′

• Trim trees at least 10′ from the chimney and roof

• Clear roof and gutters of pine needles throughout the season

• Remove all dead plants, grass, and weeds

• Remove all dead trees

• Move firewood, lumber, and large woody materials to a safe distance from structures

• Ensure your address is clearly visible to emergency response personnel

• Remove all dry, flammable vegetation 10 feet away from propane tanks

• Remove excessively dense tree cover

Nate Farnell

Truckee Branch 530-448-8038

schwab.com/truckee

© 2023 Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. (“Schwab”) Member SIPC. All rights reserved. (1120-0JP6) SCH10124-2 (03/23)

Branch Leader

Steve Sewell

OCCUPATION Small business ownerTruckee-Tahoe Pet Lodge

YEARS IN TRUCKEE I bought the business in 2010 while still living in Grass Valley and moved to Truckee in 2014.

ORIGINALLY FROM I grew up in the San Diego area and also spent 20 years in Silicon Valley.

WHY TRUCKEE

The Pet Lodge seemed like a great opportunity and, if you’re going to be in the pet care business, you’d be hard pressed to find a more dog loving community.

BIG LIFE

Little Big Town! Truckee is a fantastic place to live and work and enjoy the outdoors. It’s great to actually live in a place that so many people want to visit.

TRUCKEE LOCALS ACT NOW FOR A BRIGHT FUTURE

There’s a collective consciousness that drives all who choose to call Truckee home. Together, we enjoy the Sierra’s spectacular scenery, commune and rejuvenate in the natural landscape, experience life a little slower and more mindfully, and embark on epic adventures. We are stewards of the land we benefit from, and the responsibility to ensure we leave it better than we found it for future generations lies in all of us, including the Town of Truckee, local businesses, and community members.

Climate change and litter are two high-priority issues that, if not addressed, will lead to the degradation of the place we all hold so dear to our hearts. From local climate change advocates affecting State policy to Truckee’s Climate Action Plan to Sierra Green Businesses operating with the environment in mind, our community is taking strides in bringing sustainability into everyday practice.

Many of us already do what we can for a better future, from recycling to bringing reusable bags to the grocery store. This Earth Month, celebrate your wins, talk to others about which sustainability methods you or your business have adopted, and become inspired to take one more step forward; our future depends on it.

Citizens’ Climate Lobby (CCL) of North Tahoe, Town of Truckee’s Climate Action Plan, and Sierra Green Businesses are three ways Truckee locals are preparing for a more sustainable future.

LOCALS IMPACTING NATIONAL CLIMATE POLICY

Citizens’ Climate Lobby/Citizens Climate Education, North Tahoe Chapter

Citizens’ Climate Lobby (CCL) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, grassroots advocacy climate change organization focused on national policies to address climate change. They train and support volunteers who build relationships with elected officials, the media, and local communities. There is a chapter right here in Truckee, and everyone who cares about climate change policy is welcome to participate.

CCL believes that ordinary citizens can learn to be empowered climate advocates and build the political will in our communities for effective climate policies at the national level. Founded in 2017 by Deirdre Henderson and a group of local citizens, the North Tahoe Chapter works in California Congressional District 3, and builds respectful, substantive relationships with our members of Congress (representatives and senators) and their staffs. “We are seeing the growing effects of global warming on our local Tahoe climate all the time,” said Group Leader Deirdre Henderson. “Drought, forest fires, wildfire smoke, bark beetles, more volatile storms, and shrinking snowpack degrade our ecology, economy and health.”

To address this, North Tahoe Citizens’ Climate Lobby focuses their efforts on three policy areas. First and foremost, a carbon fee and dividend, which charges a steadily rising fee on fossil fuels as they enter the economy and returns 100% of the net fees to households as a monthly carbon cashback dividend. In addition, a carbon border adjustment on significant imports from countries that do not have a similar carbon fee would discourage U.S. businesses from relocating to countries where they can emit more CO2.

“This is the most effective way to create the market incentives to decarbonize our economy and transition to clean energy,” said Henderson, but it won’t complete the job, so we are also supporting complementary policies to get us to our necessary emission reduction goals: building electrification and efficiency measures and healthy forest management.

If you’ve been wondering where you can put your talents to work in the fight to address climate change, you’re invited to get involved! Learn more at citizensclimatelobby.org or email northtahoeccl@gmail.com.

OUR LOCAL GOVERNMENT PLANS FOR CLIMATE CHANGE

Truckee’s Climate Action Plan

The Town of Truckee has plans to address climate change as well. It is dedicated to laying the foundation to reduce community-wide emissions to 80% below baseline emissions (2008) by 2040 and contributing to the state’s 2030 target of reducing statewide emissions to 40% below 1990’s levels.

The Truckee 2040 General Plan Update includes two climate plans that work together to achieve these goals. The Climate Action Plan addresses how we reduce greenhouse gas emissions, while the Climate Adaptation Plan addresses how we adapt to a climate that is already changing.

Within the Climate Adaption Plan, you’ll find alarming statistics

that predict our future by the middle of this century: a 68-71% reduction in April snowpack, up to 61% more acres burned by wildfire, and more. Strategies to adapt to the impact of climate change support healthy residents, natural capital, sustainable businesses, resilient infrastructure, community readiness, and the town of Truckee.

Understanding climate change trends and impacts is imperative for creating an effective plan. Climate Ready Truckee is based on the best available science to ensure that robust strategies are directly linked to likely future conditions. You can access the Climate Ready Truckee Plan at truckee2040.com/climate-ready.

LOCAL BUSINESSES GO GREEN (you can too!)

Become a Sierra Green Business

If you have a Truckee business and care about sustainability, now is the time to become Sierra Green Business Certified. The Sierra Business Council (SBC) and California Green Business Network (CAGBN) – Sierra Chapter is a network of forward-thinking local businesses on a mission to be more environmentally responsible. With help from the SBC, local companies can work through a sustainability audit, with points awarded for certain environmentally-friendly practices like reducing water use, conserving energy, commuting sustainably, preventing pollution, using non-toxic cleaners, avoiding waste, using recycled materials, and hiring local vendors.

Once a business is officially certified as a Sierra Green Business, it is qualified to receive a $500 rebate for energy/water savings equipment or “green” supplies purchased during the

CCL, NORTH TAHOE GOES TO WASHINGTON, D.C. TOP, L TO R: BEN ANDERSON, EVAN ANDERSON, LIZ TUCKER, MEGAN SCOTT, MATT TUCKER; BOTTOM, L TO R: JANET ATKINSON, DEIRDRE HENDERSON, SADIE TUCKER, AILI SCOTT, JOACHIM TUCKER

certification process. Your Truckee and North Lake Tahoe business is eligible to certify as a Green Business.

Benefits include:

• You’ll make our community healthier, more sustainable, and more livable

• You’ll conserve resources and save money

• You could receive $500-$1,000 in efficiency rebates

• Gain access to a network of like-minded and ambitious local businesses

• Receive CAGBN statewide marketing and brand recognition

The California Green Business Network is a community of small to medium-sized businesses throughout the state that comply with environmental regulations concerning waste, energy, water, pollution prevention, and air quality. These businesses have undergone an extensive auditing process, implemented cost and resource-saving measures, and continue using best practices beyond certification.

“I am in recruitment for the 2023 certification cycle and would love to engage with more local businesses. In 2022, we certified seven new Green Businesses and are excited to see who joins us in 2023!”

Learn more at sierrabusiness.org/archives/green-business-network/ or email SBC’s Green Business Coordinator, Katey Ford, at kford@ sierrabusiness.org.

- Katey Ford, SBC Green Business Coordinator

A CLEANER WAY TO-GO

Truckee’s New Single-Use Foodware Reduction Ordinance

Did you know that single-use food packaging accounts for 68% of litter found in Truckee? Items like plastic utensils, straws, coffee cups, to-go boxes, and more often end up in landfills, streams, lakes, trails, and oceans. Plastic is the worst for the environment, since it doesn’t biodegrade. Students and community members know it’s an issue—they’ve been discussing it, arguing about it, and offering solutions in classrooms, on social media, in our local newspapers, and more.

The Town of Truckee has been listening. After reviewing community feedback, the Truckee Town Council approved a single-use foodware reduction ordinance on November 8, 2022. The new ordinance is mainly directed at businesses, requiring that they provide customers with alternatives to single-use foodware and charging guests for disposable food containers.

The ordinance includes the following:

• A ban on the sale and distribution of Styrofoam (expanded polystyrene) – effective April 1, 2023

• Food vendors must provide dine-in customers with reusable foodware – effective January 1, 2024

• Businesses must charge a $0.25 customer fee on disposable cups and takeout food containers – effective January 1, 2024

• Accessory foodware items (utensils, napkins, sauce packets, etc.) should only be provided upon a customer’s request – effective January 1, 2024

While compostable products, like those made from corn, sugarcane, or other plant-based materials, might sound like a reasonable alternative, they are not accepted at most composting facilities, including Truckee’s, and instead end up in the landfill.

Hopefully, these ordinances will shift our perspective and create a new culture that makes reusable foodware the norm. One option is Truckee’s Green Box To-Go Containers. If you don’t have one, you can buy one at Tahoe Food Hub, or the next time you order to-go food at a participating restaurant, make sure and request the $5 green box. When you order food to go, bring your clean, green container to the counter and swap it out.

Participating restaurants include Maki Ali, Red Truck, Stella, RMU, Siam Cuisine, Sierra Bakehouse, Old Town Tap, Tahoe Food Hub, Best Pies, and Wild Cherries (coming soon). Are you planning on eating out? Remember to bring your food container to take home leftovers.

TheKelly Family BIG LIFE LOCALS

ERIN KELLY

OCCUPATION Owner of Kelly Brothers Painting

YEARS IN TRUCKEE 20 years

ORIGINALLY FROM Northwest Ohio

BILL KELLY

OCCUPATION Entrepreneur

YEARS IN TRUCKEE 24 years

ORIGINALLY FROM Northwest Ohio

WHY TRUCKEE I love Truckee because it offers the perfect balance of life. It’s the ideal place to run a family business, raise children, and explore the outdoors. Plus, the sense of community in Truckee is amazing - you can really feel the love and support from the people who call it home.

BIG LIFE To me, the most important thing is being able to spend quality time with my family. I’m blessed to have a large family living in the area, which allows us to spend time together as a group and individually. I deeply cherish my one-onone time with each of them.

WHY TRUCKEE In 2001, my brothers established a painting business in Truckee. While both were hard workers, they were missing one key ingredient, a woman’s touch and an artistic eye. So, I jumped in and built the color consulting department of the company that has allowed me to work with gifted designers, first-class craftspeople, and talented contractors. Settling down in this community has brought me close to friends and family, allowing me to spend my days traveling, enjoying entertainment, and attending countless sports events for my nieces and nephews. Truckee is my world, filled with beautiful landscapes, good people, and a lovely place to call home when I return from my travels.

BIG LIFE I’ve recently started hiking with friends, and nature takes me beyond my daily routine to a calming and soulnourishing space for self-discovery.

KEVIN KELLY

OCCUPATION Owner of Kelly Brothers Painting

YEARS IN TRUCKEE 20 years

ORIGINALLY FROM Northwest Ohio

WHY TRUCKEE My brother and I practically lived at the foot of a local ski resort in Truckee for several years, enjoying our love of mountain sports and building our painting company. Over twenty years later, we have learned many life lessons and what it takes to be a good partner in the community. I enjoy spending time with my family, supporting my kids’ love of sports, pursuing my hobbies, and traveling to beaches around the world. But I always come back to Truckee, where family life is respected and I can enjoy a good meal and backyard fire with loved ones while overlooking the beautiful Sierra.

BIG LIFE Perhaps, big life is having the privilege of finding a fresh blanket of snow in the backcountry and feeling calm while navigating the landscape. The stillness of nature brings balance to the busy pace of life.

The How’s and Why’s of Truckee

How to Start a Business in Truckee

Are you thinking of starting a new business in Truckee? Truckee is full of successful entrepreneurs, some who fell in love with this area and decided to move their businesses here and others who saw a need and started their business in Truckee from the ground up. Did you know that Truckee doesn’t require a business license?

The Town of Truckee, and Sierra Small Business Development Center (SBDC) of the Sierra Business Council (SBC) have tools and guidance to help you find out the basics, such as where you can operate and what permits you will need.

The Town of Truckee has set up two online platforms, OpenCounter and ZoningCheck, to help new small business owners learn the basics of starting a business in Truckee. OpenCounter asks the right questions, in the right order, so business owners see the requirements, fees, and processing time that will apply to their planned use and location. It also collects metrics on new business development activities to inform the Town’s economic development strategies, including which neighborhoods or districts have the most commercial activity and what kinds of businesses are starting. ZoningCheck is a simplified tool that shows where a particular use is allowed. Just enter the type of use and the address, and the tool will tell you whether the use is allowed. Click the “Learn More” button and you can see additional information on the zoning for the property.

Sierra SBDC is like having an expert consultant and strategist with your startup, but their services are free! They provide professional one-on-one advising, training, and workshops, as well as critical assistance with funding strategies. Sierra SBDC is available to help you with business concept and validation, the permits and licenses you’ll need, your business name, demographic analysis, and possible franchising opportunities. They’ll also consult about financial stability and accounting, human resources and legal matters, operations, and marketing and return on investment. Sierra SBDC also provides continuous support for all Truckee-Tahoe businesses with free workshops, consultations, and assistance with low-interest loans.

SBC also partners with Tahoe Silicon Mountain (nonprofit group for tech professionals) to produce an annual Tahoe Pitch Camp. Entrepreneurs are invited to develop their ideas with weekly coaching and then present a business pitch to the public, like the show Shark Tank, and the audience votes for the winner.

Once you’re ready to start, the Truckee Chamber of Commerce can help you launch your business. Joining the Truckee Chamber of Commerce provides you with a connection to the essential business organization in Truckee. Membership with the chamber connects you to the community through business networking and educational opportunities, a searchable presence with your own business page on Truckee.com, help finding employees through Truckee Jobs Collective and our annual Truckee Hiring Fair, and marketing through our newsletters and social media. We’re happy to host a ribbon-cutting ceremony for member businesses as well.

Lift Truckee

Sharing an office with other Truckee-Tahoe professionals to collaborate can be priceless, as well as saving the hassle of dealing with leases and utilities. Lift Truckee is a co-working space that has collaborated and helped local organizations such as Recyclist, Truckee Trails Foundation, Sierra Watershed Education Partnerships, KidZone, Sierra Sun and Social Stream succeed. They recently expanded into a nearly 11,000 sq foot space at the airport (formerly the Clear Capital building) to serve their growing group of entrepreneurs and social enterprises. Founder Jan Holan is also a principal of Tahoe Silicon Mountain and serves on several nonprofit boards that meet at Lift Truckee.

Part of their new space will be a co-work space for wellness professionals, anchored by physical therapy partner, Scott Williams of Synergy Healing Arts. They will provide treatment rooms adjacent to a small gym open to the public and airport staff. They plan to partner with a local roaster to provide a coffee house experience for a broader community. Jan’s goals for the expanded Lift are:

• Help incubate and support social enterprises

• Integrate wellness and work by creating a co-work space for wellness professionals and integrating a gym and movement space for their members.

• Launch a Truckee Tahoe Renewables Hub

The Lift offers annual, monthly, and drop-in memberships. You can read more about Truckee Lift and other coworking spaces in our Winter 2022 Insider’s Guide on Truckee.com.

• Make and/or schedule payments

• Check your energy and water usage

• Set up text or email notifications for outage alerts, payments and emergencies

• Update your contact information

*If you’re already a SmartHub user, make sure you’ve verified your mobile number to receive outage alerts.

Scan the QR code below for instructions.

Your Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation In Action

FAMILY STRENGTHENING

million in scholarships for solutions through Mountain

Facilitating regional collaboration for disaster response and recovery

FOREST FUTURES

Protecting our community and forests through regenerative capital

Put your philanthropy to work. Visit: TTCF.net

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