A project to remove 8 miles of lead-sheathed cables weighing 63 tons from the bottom of Lake Tahoe is finally moving forward after a long delay. The cables, which were first discovered over a decade ago by scuba divers, run from Baldwin Beach to Rubicon Bay along the West Shore.
These copper wires coated in lead were installed as far back as 1929 by Pacific Bell, which is now owned by AT&T. Lead is a known carcinogen and can cause a range of health issues, especially in women in their 20s and 30s and young children. Due to the potential dangers posed by the cables, scuba divers working to remove trash from water bodies partnered with the California Sportfishing Protection Alliance to file a lawsuit against AT&T in 2021.
In response to the lawsuit and California’s Proposition 65, which requires businesses to disclose exposure to harmful chemicals, AT&T agreed to remove the cables to avoid costly litigation. However, the project was briefly paused last summer for further analysis following what the utility called “sensationalized” news reports. Despite claims from multiple expert analyses that the cables pose no threat to public health or the environment, the removal project is now back on track.
Jesse Patterson, the chief strategy officer for the League to Save Lake Tahoe, expressed relief that the project is moving forward and commended AT&T for following through on their commitment. The League, which has been advocating for the removal of the cables, aims to have the work completed by the end of the year. If any delays occur due to weather or legal issues, the project may extend into early 2025.
The use of lead as a protective coating for cables dates back to the late 19th century, but the practice was phased out by the telecommunications industry in the 1950s. The removal of these cables from Lake Tahoe is a crucial step in protecting the pristine environment of the lake and ensuring the safety of those who enjoy its waters.
Lake Tahoe is a cherished natural treasure that deserves the utmost care and protection. The efforts to remove these lead-sheathed cables demonstrate a commitment to preserving the beauty and health of this iconic lake. By working together, AT&T, the League to Save Lake Tahoe, and other stakeholders are taking important strides towards keeping Lake Tahoe blue for generations to come.