New bill balances defense needs, protects public lands
Nevada's Desert National Wildlife Refuge was first designated as a haven for bighorn sheep.
Sharon Safer
Legislation for Nevada's Desert National Wildlife Refuge protects wildlife, public access and ancestral lands while increasing Air Force capabilities for technology installation, testing and training.
LAS VEGAS -- Just north of the sprawling glitter of Las Vegas, legislation was introduced today by Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) to designate 736,000 acres of the Desert National Wildlife Refuge as wilderness. The bill will provide lasting visitor recreational access and protection for the region’s iconic desert bighorn sheep, while safeguarding traditional collection and ceremonial locations important to Southern Paiute Tribes. The legislation gives the United States Air Force increased access for the installation of military technology for training and operations. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) is co-sponsoring the bill, which will be attached to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
Jose Witt, The Wilderness Society’s Mojave Desert Landscape Director, responded to the bill introduction:
“This legislation is a win-win that provides our armed services with increased training capabilities and— for generations to come—the highest level of conservation protection and enjoyment of the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural resources of this stunning desert refuge. We are grateful for Senator Cortez Masto’s leadership in offering this comprehensive bill that does so much for the people of Nevada and the nation.”
Southeastern Nevada’s Desert National Wildlife Refuge is the largest wildlife refuge in the continental United States and is critical habitat for desert bighorn sheep. Much of its land overlaps with the Nevada Test and Training Range (NTTR), a part of Nellis Air Force Base used for target practice and aerial combat training.
For more information on the legislation, visit: Cortez Masto, Rosen announce proposal to improve Air Force training capabilities in Southern Nevada, protect public lands
Contact:
Kate Mackay, Principal Communications Director – Landscape Connectivity: 602-571-2603; kate_mackay@tws.org
