LAKE TAHOE — The Tahoe Fund announced that 12 major Lake Tahoe-area ski resorts are offering two free Alpine or Nordic tickets for every purchase of a California or Nevada Lake Tahoe license plate between December 12 and April 15.

“Tahoe’s resorts have stepped up again to offer an irresistible deal for skiers and boarders who want to show their support for Lake Tahoe,” said Cindy Gustafson, President of the nonprofit Tahoe Fund. “For less than the price of a lift ticket or day pass, you can ski with a friend, help fund a trail or a park, and get a great-looking plate for your car.”

Over 96% of Lake Tahoe license plate fees go directly to Tahoe recreation and restoration projects of the California Tahoe Conservancy, the Nevada Division of State Lands, and the Tahoe Fund. The Tahoe Fund’s Plate for Powder partnership with the Tahoe area ski resorts supports Tahoe hiking and biking trails, public parks, watershed improvements, and other on-the-ground projects. Lake Tahoe specialty plates generate about $1.5 million annually.

The special resort ticket deal is available only through the tahoefund.org website, where buyers can receive their two free tickets by purchasing a new California Tahoe plate for $50 or a new Nevada Tahoe plate for $61.

“Buying or giving someone a Tahoe license plate helps protect and enhance Tahoe, plus it’s an incredible deal,” said Gustafson.

All major Tahoe ski resorts are participating in the 2nd Annual Plate for Powder Program, including Squaw Valley USA, Alpine Meadows, Homewood, Heavenly Valley, Northstar-at-Tahoe (Alpine and Nordic), Kirkwood, Sugar Bowl, Boreal Ridge, Tahoe Donner (Alpine and Nordic), Royal Gorge, Tahoe Cross Country, and Sierra-at-Tahoe. The free tickets and day passes are valid Sunday through Friday for the 2011/2012 season until supplies run out. Standard holiday blackout dates apply to downhill ski areas, including 12/24-1/1, 1/14-1/16, and 2/18-2/20. Check with each resort for specific holiday blackout dates.

To purchase a Tahoe plate and receive your complimentary lift tickets, visit www.tahoefund.org.