Public Comment Sought On Future Of Independence Lake

TRUCKEE, Calif. (AP) -- The Nature Conservancy is seeking public comment on a recreation management plan for Independence Lake in the Sierra Nevada.

The conservation group last year acquired 2,325 acres of forested land around the lake for $15 million from electric utility NV Energy.

The group seeks to allow visitors access to the lake and land north of Truckee while preserving critical habitat for native fish and wildlife.

A public forum on the lake's future will begin at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday at Truckee Town Hall.

The lake provides water to the Reno area and is a popular destination for anglers and hikers.

The Nature Conservancy called its purchase of the land an important conservation milestone in the Sierra.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)