S. 2042: Sloan Canyon Conservation and Lateral Pipeline Act
Overview:
S. 2042, known as the Sloan Canyon Conservation and Lateral Pipeline Act, is a legislative proposal introduced by Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) on December 19, 2024. This bill aims to conserve and manage federally owned land in Nevada, known as the Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area (NCA).
Conservation of Sloan Canyon:
The bill designates approximately 19,000 acres of land within the Sloan Canyon area as a NCA. The NCA will be managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to protect its natural, cultural, and recreational values. The designation will prohibit most forms of development and mining in the area.
Lateral Pipeline Authorization:
S. 2042 also authorizes the construction of a water pipeline that would connect the Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA) to an existing pipeline in Sloan Canyon. The lateral pipeline would allow SNWA to access water from a new wellfield in the area and deliver it to the Las Vegas metropolitan area.
Benefits of the Bill:
The bill’s supporters argue that it will provide several benefits, including:
- Protection of critical wildlife habitat and scenic landscapes in Sloan Canyon.
- Enhancement of recreational opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and cultural exploration.
- Provision of a reliable source of water for the Las Vegas metro area, reducing dependence on groundwater.
- Creation of jobs and economic development in the region.
Opponents’ Concerns:
Some opponents of the bill raise concerns about:
- Potential impacts on mining claims in the area.
- Reduced grazing opportunities for ranchers.
- Limited access to off-road vehicle use in Sloan Canyon.
Status of the Bill:
As of January 1, 2025, the bill is in the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. No hearings or markups have been scheduled yet. It is unclear when the bill will be brought to a vote on the Senate floor.
Conclusion:
S. 2042 is a significant piece of legislation that aims to balance the conservation of natural resources, the provision of water, and the economic development of the Las Vegas metropolitan area. The bill has both supporters and opponents who have expressed concerns and presented differing perspectives. The status of the bill is still uncertain, and its fate will depend on the outcome of future hearings and debates in the Senate.
S. 2042 (ES) – Sloan Canyon Conservation and Lateral Pipeline Act
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