Lake Tahoe beach tree poisoning investigation continues

Washoe County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a series of deliberate tree poisonings at Burnt Cedar Beach on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe. The incidents date back to 2022, with 12 trees poisoned that year and 16 more discovered in 2024 alone, causing roughly $300,000 in damage as most affected trees died and were removed. Deputies first responded on June 24 after a strong odor was reported at the base of a pine tree; soil samples later confirmed the presence of the same unknown substance used in earlier cases. Additional trees were found on August 2, and investigators estimate the substance was applied between the morning of August 1 and early morning of August 2. Sheriff Darin Balaam called the acts “deeply troubling” and a “significant loss for the entire community.” No suspect has been identified, and a trail camera captured a light near the site around 2 a.m. on the night of the latest incident. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.