Donner Lake is small compared to Lake Tahoe, but its water level is substantially lower this year. Dan O’Gorman, recreation superintendent Truckee-Donner Recreation & Park District, can’t recall Donner Lake ever failing to reach its maximum water level at this time of year. In addition to its recreational and esthetic value, Donner Lake also provides backup water resources for the Truckee Meadows Water Authority (Reno) for seasonal customer demand. As a result of these lower levels, the TMWA has drawn more water from the Boca and Stampede reservoirs. Federal Water Master Chad Blanchard, for the Truckee River Operating Agreement, attributes the lower lake levels to a series of below normal snow seasons resulting in dramatically reduced runoff. Recreation opportunities have not been significantly affected, but the boat launch at the Tahoe Donner Association beach has been closed for the summer. The only remaining location to launch boats is at the West End Beach ramp. O’Gorman advises against jumping or diving into the lake from piers.
Click on this link to read the complete article the in the Sierra Sun.
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