The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the suspected intentional poisoning of 28 mature pine trees at a private beach in Incline Village, Nevada. Authorities reported Tuesday that the most recent incidents occurred in May, July, and August, following similar events in 2022 and 2024.
The affected trees are located at Burnt Cedar Beach, a gated area accessible only to residents of Incline Village and their guests. Investigators found evidence that diesel fuel had been poured around the bases of the trees, and holes drilled into the trunks suggested the injection of copper sulfate, a chemical that causes trees to rot from the interior.
Damage is estimated at $300,000. While no suspects have been identified, Lt. Chad McKinnon of the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office stated that investigators are exploring the theory that a nearby resident may be killing the trees to improve their property’s lake views and increase resale value.
Beyond property values, the loss of mature pines has ecological implications for the Lake Tahoe basin. These trees play a specific role in maintaining the lake's water clarity by absorbing nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus and slowing stormwater runoff. If these natural filters are removed, it could influence the clarity of the water, a primary characteristic of the regional environment. Environmental specialists have already had to intervene, removing contaminated soil up to one foot deep and washing tree bases to prevent toxins from spreading further into the local ecosystem.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have stated that the beach remains safe for public use. What happens next depends on the results of soil sample testing currently underway to confirm the specific chemicals used. Law enforcement is also reviewing footage from a trail camera that captured a light in the area at 2 a.m. on August 2. No specific court dates or deadlines for the investigation have been released, but deputies continue to seek information from the public to identify the responsible parties.