It is often the case that we see numerous projects get released in waves from a particular area. We are seeing many project updates and proposals occurring in Nevada. All of the following projects are open for public comment and need our voice as groups look to restrict or close outdoor recreation. Each of these issues will impact a wide range of recreation users. If you recreate in Nevada it would be helpful for you to take a minute and comment on each action alert we’ve added to this post.
Harris Springs Recreation Area-Dec. 3, 2021
Logandale Travel Management- Dec. 6, 2021
Tiehm Buckwheat Endangered Species Act- Dec. 6, 2021
Calico Basin Area- Dec. 8, 2021
Rough Hat Clark County Solar Project- Dec. 22, 2021
Harris Springs Recreation Area
Located just next to Las Vegas, this area has become extremely popular in the last few years and visitation is only predicted to increase. Current recreation includes OHV use, hiking and mountain biking. Due to the Carpenter 1 fire in 2013 the BLM issued a 5 year closure. During that time unauthorized routes were created.
Not only should the BLM make sure the same amount of mileage for routes pre-fire are established, but they should also analyze incorporating existing routes into the travel system as there is clearly a need for them. The BLM is asking for specific information regarding trails. If you have on the ground knowledge of this area please include that information in your comment. As you can see from the proposed map below, all the blue routes are proposed to be closed. Severely, limiting motorized use.
Logandale Travel Management
Bordering Valley of Fire State Park and Moapa Valley, Logandale travel management provides many OHV trails. Comparing the routes the BLM has marked with google earth, BRC has found many roads that they do not have in their system. BLM is asking for those familiar with the area to identify routes that they have missed.
Tiehm Buckwheat Endangered Species Listing
Conservation groups are proposing to list the Tiehm Buckwheat species as an endangered species. If this species is in fact listed, this will also create critical habitat and shut down any type of roads and trails in the area. They have identified OHV’s as a potential stressor for the species.
You can learn more about the proposed listing and submit a comment here.
Calico Basin
Calico Basin is also just outside of Las Vegas and very popular. Use has increased tremendously over the past few years and is looking to only increase more. Because this is a conservation area, motorized use is already prohibited on any of the trails. However, the BLM is still proposing to close and restrict hiking and mountain bike trails, rock climbing and camping. As they look to continue to restrict recreation access, we need everyone engaged to fight back.
Rough Hat Clark County Solar Project is also on our radar for the end of December. We will continue to update our members as we gather more information.
You can learn more about the proposed project and submit a comment here.
