May 4, 2010

Washington, DC – Nevada Senator Harry Reid today made the following statement on the resolution passed by the Clark County Commission in support of designating Gold Butte as a national conservation area.  The resolution also calls for establishing a number of wilderness areas and protecting existing access.

“The Gold Butte area is home to an incredible array of natural and cultural treasures, including early mining camps, ancient Native American petroglyphs, wild sandstone formations and critical wildlife habitat.  As this area has become more popular and visitation has increased, the impact to the area’s resources has become quite evident.

“With today’s vote, the Clark County Commission has provided a framework for the long-term protection of Gold Butte’s most sensitive lands and resources, while also making sure that the families who have accessed and enjoyed Gold Butte for generations can continue to do so.  I look forward to working with the Nevada congressional delegation and local residents to craft legislation that fulfills these goals.”

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