Our Mission

To advance the knowledge of coupled aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems and their interactions within natural and developed Earth systems, and to communicate science-informed solutions worldwide.
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What We Do

We are an interdisciplinary research institute dedicated to understanding and protecting freshwater watersheds, with Lake Tahoe as our primary natural laboratory. By integrating expertise across multiple scientific fields, TERC studies how water, land, and air systems interact. Through long-term monitoring, innovative research, and community engagement, we translate science into real-world solutions that support healthy lakes and lasting environmental stewardship.

Understand

Learn about the complex biological and physical processes that shape the lakes and watersheds where we work

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Explore

Check out the advanced technology we use to monitor and safeguard freshwater resources

Researcher in red jacket on inflatable boat beside yellow torpedo-shaped AUV, ship behind

Educate

Discover our science through education and outreach designed for all audiences.

supporting scientists of all ages

Impact

Learn how our research supports management to preserve, restore, and protect the environment.

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Where We Work

UC Davis TERC has conducted research at Lake Tahoe for over 60 years and also works in other freshwater systems in the Sierra Nevada and beyond. While Lake Tahoe and the surrounding basin serve as our primary natural laboratory, our work extends to other alpine and freshwater ecosystems facing environmental challenges, allowing the insights we gain locally to inform water resource management globally.

Tahoe

For over 60 years, we have conducted research at Lake Tahoe and also works in other freshwater systems in the Sierra Nevada and beyond

Underwater lake tahoe views

Clear Lake

Researching the in-lake causes of Clear Lake's challenges, including harmful algal blooms (HABs), and developing restoration strategies

Lake with reeds and dead tree in foreground, mountain range across calm blue water

Terrestrial

Advancing tree genetics and novel reforestation methods to create climate-resilient forests that help support and protect healthy watersheds

Snow-covered slope with frost-coated evergreen trees against deep blue sky

Global

By applying lessons learned to lake systems and climate challenges worldwide, we extend our impact far beyond the Tahoe Basin

Snow-capped mountain above misty hills and a calm blue lake at sunrise, photograph