By JON PORTER
U.S. Congressman
Published August 20, 2008
Our communities have a unique kinship with Gold Butte, an area that our families have enjoyed and recreated on for generations. The area is so rich in history and heritage that it also attracts the attention of those who live outside the surrounding communities.
Early in the 110th Congress, I introduced the Mesquite Lands Act which will enhance an ongoing economic surge in that community by transferring 4900 acres to the City of Mesquite. Recognizing that public land transfer legislation, such as the Mesquite Lands Act, can be an attractive vehicle to attach conservation measures, well-funded environmental groups have targeted my legislation to move a comprehensive conservation component to protect Gold Butte.
I want to be very clear on my position both on protecting Gold Butte and the nature of my legislation in relationship to proposals put forward by third party organizations.
First, I recognize the unique beauty of Gold Butte. It is an area rich in natural resources that attracts special attention. Gold Butte holds an important place in the natural history of Southern Nevada and in our community.
Second, as an outdoorsman, I understand that Gold Butte is a popular recreation site for hikers, hunters and off-road enthusiasts. The ability to enjoy the land is something we need to protect for generations to come. Environmentalist’s concerns cite excessive abuse by off-road adventurers, graffiti at preservation sites and a lack of sanitation. There will always be those who abuse public lands, but the majority of individuals who frequent the area are safe, responsible stewards of our environment. I certainly agree that there should be additional stewardship of Gold Butte’s rich history, but we must achieve a balance between protecting and enjoying our natural resources.
A conservation component is not mandatory to move the Mesquite legislation. My primary intent regarding the Mesquite Lands Act is to promote responsible development in the growing City of Mesquite. I understand there has been a lot of chatter from the environmental community about including such a conservation component, but the most important stakeholders in this discussion are my constituents who will be most impacted by any change in designation for Gold Butte. Those who live with public lands in their backyard will be consulted at length before any major decisions are made. As such, I have called on all affected communities to take a position, build a consensus and report back to me. I am elected to represent the interests of my constituents and am anxious to hear your views on this matter.
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