Author: Kristie Wells
Eight local projects compete for a $10,000 grant decided by public vote
The Tahoe Fund has narrowed its annual Tahoe Project Madness competition to eight finalists, with community voting now underway to determine which project will receive an additional $10,000 grant.
More than 1,000 votes were cast in the opening round, advancing a group of initiatives focused on forest restoration, water quality, recreation access, and wildfire prevention. Voting remains open through April 6, 2026. [LINK]
The finalists include Caldor Fire reforestation led by the Sugar Pine Foundation, restoration of the Upper Truckee Marsh by the California Tahoe Conservancy, and aquatic invasive species prevention efforts from the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency.
Programs expanding access to outdoor recreation are also in the running. Achieve Tahoe is working to increase adaptive summer programming, while SOS Outreach supports mentorship and outdoor access for local youth. Trail improvements from the Tahoe Area Mountain Biking Association and nature education programs from the Tahoe Institute for Natural Science round out the list.
A wildfire alert camera project through ALERTWildfire is also included, aimed at improving early fire detection across the Tahoe Basin.
Each project is already underway. The additional grant will help expand impact at a time when environmental pressures and community needs continue to grow.
Residents can cast their vote online before April 6. The outcome will be determined by the community. Vote now. [LINK]