Clean Up The Lake’s inspiring documentary series What Lies Unseen has returned with a brand-new chapter—and this time, the spotlight is on two Sierra reservoirs just outside of Truckee. Episode 4, released August 16, 2025, takes viewers beneath the surface of Boca and Stampede Reservoirs, where the team conducted its first-ever pilot research project in partnership with The Martis Fund.
For those who followed along earlier this year, Sierra Rec Magazine had the honor of helping introduce this series through our podcast conversation with Clean Up The Lake founder Colin West. That episode gave listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the origins of the project. Now, the story comes full circle with fresh visuals and discoveries captured on film.
What This Episode Reveals
Episode 4 pulls viewers into the unique challenge of studying Sierra reservoirs. Unlike Tahoe’s famous clarity, Boca and Stampede present different ecosystems and different types of threats. Through scuba-based surveys, the Clean Up The Lake team investigated submerged litter loads and potential aquatic invasive species, offering an early glimpse into the methods they’ll use as they expand their work across the Sierra.
The episode is more than a dive log—it’s an exploration of how new lakes are studied, what makes each body of water distinct, and why the work of Clean Up The Lake matters far beyond Tahoe’s shoreline.
Why It Matters for the Sierra
Boca and Stampede are beloved recreation spots for campers, anglers, and paddlers, but until now, little was known about the condition of their underwater environments. By documenting pilot research here, What Lies Unseen raises awareness about the hidden challenges facing Sierra reservoirs—and the ongoing need to protect them.
This is grassroots science at its most relatable: divers volunteering time and energy, nonprofits partnering with local organizations, and storytelling that inspires action.
Watch & Get Involved
- 📺 Watch Episode 4: YouTube – Make A Difference Creative
- 🌊 Follow the Mission: Instagram – @CleanUpTheLake
- 💙 Support Their Work: CleanUpTheLake.org
And if you missed it, circle back to our earlier Sierra Rec Podcast episode with Colin West to hear the origin story behind What Lies Unseen. Together, these pieces highlight one of the most important conservation efforts happening right here in the Sierra Nevada.
