Horsford Introduces Virgin Valley Tourism and Lake Mead Preservation Act

Press Release

Today, Representative Steven Horsford (NV-4) introduced the Virgin Valley Tourism and Lake Mead Preservation Act.

The legislation, H.R. 2276, would create a Gold Butte National Conservation Area (NCA) of approximately 350,000 acres (keeping all currently open roads within the NCA open for access). The bill would also promote Lake Mead for tourism, support a local airport development extension, and direct the Secretary of the Interior to consult with local leaders on energy development.

"Gold Butte is a state treasure and Nevada's piece of the Grand Canyon," said Horsford. "This site has a rich cultural history, it is a critical wildlife habitat, and it should be preserved and protected for future generations."

The legislation also establishes the Virgin Valley Tourism and Economic Advisory Council which would include representatives from Moapa, Moapa Valley, Bunkerville, and Mesquite. Additional council members would be assigned by the Moapa Band of Paiutes Tribal Council and the Clark County Board of County Commissioners.

"I have met with community leaders that have a stake in this legislation, and I look forward to announcing a series of additional meetings in the next two weeks with other members of the community on this project. This legislation will continue to be worked on and developed in an open and transparent manner, and I look forward to receiving more input from the residents in Moapa, Overton, Bunkerville, and Mesquite, as well as any constituents with comments on the legislation."

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