South Lake Tahoe, CA (November 17, 2025) – South Tahoe Public Utility District (STPUD) and Lake Valley Fire Protection District (LVFPD) have started an update of their Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan. The plan will develop near-term and long-term mitigation actions that reduce risk from drought, floods, winter storms, wildfires, and other natural hazards.

“Community input is essential to set priorities and identify projects,” said Megan Colvey, Director of Engineering with STPUD.

 Hazard mitigation means taking actions that reduce or eliminate long-term risk to people, property, infrastructure, the economy, and the environment.

“For every $1 spent on mitigation, we save $6 in disaster costs,” said Colvey. “Planning ahead helps us prioritize safety and protects our assets."

National studies show communities gain strong value from mitigation investments, with significant savings for every dollar spent. A plan that is updated every five years, also keeps the STPUD and LVFPD eligible for state and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Hazard Mitigation Assistance grant funding. 

 The update will follow FEMA guidance through a four-phase, nine-step planning process during 2025 and 2026. A Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee will help steer the work and ensure broad participation by residents, businesses, partner agencies, and community organizations. 

How to participate 

• Take the public survey to share your experience with local hazards and ideas for risk reduction. The survey is available in English and Spanish and remains open through November 30, 2025.  

• Attend the Public Workshop in 2026 once the draft Plan is ready for review.  

• Stay updated by visiting: www.stpud.us/hazard-mitigation-plan-update

Benefits to the community include protecting public safety, reducing damage to existing and future development, hardening critical water and wastewater infrastructure, and minimizing service disruptions. STPUD and LVFPD will use community input to identify and prioritize a portfolio of mitigation actions.  

“We encourage everyone on the south shore to take a few minutes to complete this survey to help your water/sewer and fire districts understand your concerns,” said Colvey.

If you have questions, call STPUD at (530) 544-6474 or email info@stpud.us.