Lake Tahoe Tree Poisoning Investigation Grows After More Trees Targeted, Sheriff Says

CBS Bay Area

August 5, 2026

A series of suspected tree poisonings at a Lake Tahoe beach is under investigation, the Washoe County Sheriff's Office said.

Deputies first responded June 24 after a strong odor was reported coming from the base of a pine tree at Burnt Cedar Beach. Soil samples were collected, and investigators determined the odor was consistent with previous tree-poisoning cases.

More trees with an unknown substance around their bases were discovered Aug. 2. Investigators believe the substance was placed there sometime between 11:30 a.m. Aug. 1 and 5 a.m. Aug. 2.

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