Tahoe City, CA and Stateline, NV…The popular “Plates for Powder” program is back and once again offers individuals who purchase a new Lake Tahoe license plate in either California or Nevada two free lift tickets to one of 10 Tahoe resorts participating in the program. With ski resorts opening in less than two weeks, now is the time to buy a Tahoe license plate so you can ski for free in Tahoe.

“The mountains are covered in white from this weekend’s storm signaling that ski season is almost here,” said Amy Berry, CEO of the Tahoe Fund. “Get ready to ski at one of the 10 resorts in Tahoe who generously support this great program by purchasing your new California or Nevada Tahoe plate today.”

Plate sales and renewal fees generate proceeds that go directly to the California Tahoe Conservancy and Nevada Division of State Lands to fund hiking and biking trails and watershed restoration projects. The Tahoe Fund, a nonprofit dedicated to raising money for environmental improvement projects that support lake clarity, recreation and stewardship in the Tahoe Basin, is organizing the program on behalf of the public agencies.

“Powder hounds are getting a screaming deal, but we all benefit from the trails, lakefront parks, and other outdoor projects funded by Tahoe plates,” said Patrick Wright, Executive Director of the CA Tahoe Conservancy. “And thanks to the resorts for making this deal – and these projects – an annual event.”

Administrator of the Nevada Division of State Lands Charlie Donohue encourages participation in the Plates for Powder program, ”Funds raised by the purchase of Tahoe license plates have made many significant environmental projects possible.”

The resorts participating in the promotion include Diamond Peak, Heavenly Valley, Homewood Mountain Resort, Kirkwood Mountain Resort, Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe, Northstar California, Sierra at Tahoe, Squaw Valley|Alpine Meadows, Tahoe Cross Country, and Tahoe City Winter Sports Park.

Information on how to purchase a plate and redeem free tickets is available athttp://www.tahoeplates.org. The promotion is available from now until April 1. Some restrictions apply.