Carnelian Bay West beach and Patton Landing beach will remain closed, Health Advisory still in effect
This is an update for Monday, July 22, 2024, for the Carnelian Bay Sewer Spill incident that occurred on Thursday evening, July 18, 2024, as a result of a private contractor striking the North Tahoe Public Utility District’s (NTPUD) main sewer export pipeline.
Due to elevated levels of bacteria present in water quality test taken over the weekend, the Carnelian Bay West Beach and Patton Landing Beach will remain closed to the public until further notice.
A health advisory remains in effect for Lake Tahoe shoreline from 5500 North Lake Boulevard (Sahara Drive and Highway 28), and Southwest to 4600 North Lake Boulevard. (see attached map for reference).
Residents and visitors are advised that contact with the lake water in the advisory area could cause illness due to elevated bacteria levels.
Lake Tahoe Water Quality Analysis
Water quality samples are being taken daily from the Lake Tahoe shoreline at and near the spill site. The laboratory analysis requires 24-hours to process, and health officials are evaluating the results as they come in. The health advisory will remain in effect until bacteria levels in the water return to a normal level.
Public Drinking Water Not at Risk
The NTPUD’s public drinking water system is not at risk and tap water is safe to drink.
Private lakefront properties in the advisory area with their own lake intakes should be aware of these elevated bacteria levels and should contact Placer County Environmental Health with concerns about their drinking water.
Ongoing Site Restoration
In collaboration with the California Tahoe Conservancy and Placer County, the NTPUD is continuing restoration at the spill site, including disinfection and cleanup of the impacted landscaping and beach area.
Additional Updates
Placer County and the NTPUD will continue to provide updates on the ongoing health advisory and closure areas as ongoing water quality test results are evaluated.
Media Contacts
For public questions about the health advisory and related health risks, please contact:
Placer County
For questions about the beach cleanup efforts or beach closures, please contact:
North Tahoe Public Utility District
Justin Broglio
