Incline Fireworks, Inc. is committed to the ongoing recovery and cleanup of the fireworks barge incident on July 4th, 2025. We are working diligently to minimize the impact on our community and Lake Tahoe, prioritizing public safety and environmental protection. The following update outlines the progress of our recovery efforts and invites continued community engagement.
Fireworks and Debris Recovery
Our recovery operations is ongoing, focusing on the retrieval of fireworks debris from Lake Tahoe. As of today, July 30, 2025, approximately 96% of the submerged fireworks have been recovered. Below is the current status of the recovery effort:
The fireworks recovered on July 4th were safely transported out of Incline Village in compliance with Nevada Department of Transportation regulations. An additional 18 fireworks were recovered after July 4th and handed over to the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad for proper disposal. Lantis Fireworks is currently preparing a detailed report for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) to ensure compliance with all necessary safety protocols. The ATF is involved due to safety concerns related to the explosives, and they may offer rewards for information leading to arrests related to the misuse or theft of fireworks. Persons in unlawful possession or misusing fireworks may be criminally prosecuted by the ATF as a felony.
Community Assistance in Recovery
We encourage the community to help in the ongoing recovery process. If you discover any fireworks debris:
- Do not touch suspected fireworks.
- Take a photograph of the item.
- Record the exact location, and if possible, use Google Maps to pin the location.
- Call the recovery hotline at (775) 241-8572 for further instructions.
- In emergencies, please contact 911 immediately.
Barge Recovery Operations
Plans are underway to recover the submerged barge, which rests at depths of 142 to 180 feet. The process will require the expertise of a certified dive team and most likely remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). Video footage from the Washoe County ROV team has indicated that many of the missing fireworks are near the barge. It is the intention of Incline Fireworks to implement a safe salvage operation and achieve the best outcome for the health of Lake Tahoe.
Water Quality
We are pleased to report that water quality monitoring and testing indicates there is no evidence of contamination that would pose a risk to public health. To view the most recent testing results, please visit https://www.yourtahoeplace.com/news/beachincident/.
To learn more about the water quality testing process related to the failed barge incident please visit https://ivgid.portal.civicclerk.com/event/581/files/attachment/3209.
To help our community easily find the information they need, we’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) below.
Does Incline Fireworks own the barge that sank?
No, the barge is privately owned.
Who is on the Incline Fireworks Board?
- Chris Plastiras & Shelia Leijon – Co-Chairs
- Kristie Wells – Secretary
- Parissa Lotfi – Treasurer & Donor Relations
- Melissa Homan – Accounting
- Kristen Ferrall – Marketing
- Mitch Harbaugh – IT, Website, and Community Relations
How can I contact the Incline Fireworks Board?
Email: info@inclinefireworks.com
Who permits Incline’s fireworks events?
- Washoe County Planning
- North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District
- U.S. Coast Guard
- Nevada Department of Wildlife
Who funds the Incline Fireworks Event?
The event is entirely funded by private donations.
Does Incline Fireworks have adequate insurance for recovery and cleanup costs?
Yes, Incline Fireworks contracted for the necessary insurance coverage for recovery and cleanup costs.
Who is responsible for the cost of work performed by IVGID staff during recovery and cleanup?
Incline Fireworks, Inc. is currently assuming responsibility for costs related to recovery, restoration and cleanup by IVGID and other community partners. Other responsible parties may be expected to contribute to reimbursement of these costs.
Further Updates
We will continue to provide the community with updates as factual information becomes available. Incline Fireworks remains committed to ensuring the safety of our community and the protection of Lake Tahoe throughout this recovery process. For additional information or inquiries, please contact info@inclinefireworks.com.
