As most everyone in and around the Lake Tahoe Basin is aware-the lake level is low. As the last two winters were extremely dry, this isn’t shocking to locals. In the winter time, our immediate response is that ski conditions are not all that great and we grumble about the expense of our pass vs how many days we have actually gone up. In the summer time, however, it can have a negative effect on one of the most popular recreational activities: Boating. The M.S. Dixie and Tahoe Queen have already experienced issues with the low lake levels. If the lake level dips below 6,223 ft (the natural rim), getting in and out of the Tahoe Keys, as well as docking, could prove to be a challenge. As of February, the lake level was at 6,224 feet. Most recent measurements showed that the depth of water in the East channel varied from 2.5 to 5.5 feet and 2.5 to 4.5 feet in the West channel. The Tahoe Keys Property Owner Association board and staff are working closely with the Tahoe Keys Marina to come up with a solution to ensure that boating is still a possibility. There is currently a project in the works to dredge and widen the East channel allowing easier access for boats to come and go. An approval to dredge the West Channel has already been approved, but a survey must be done to determine the nature of the project and what exactly needs to be completed in order to achieve the end result of a wider channel. Once that has been figured out, a permit will need to be obtained which could take up to 90 days. Luckily there are rumors of snow and rain in the forecast, but will it be enough to help? Stay tuned.