NV-SCORP-FINAL-2022-2026.pdf

N E V A D A Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan

2022-2026

Nevada Department of Conservation & Natural Resources

Division of State Parks

Division of Outdoor Recreation

“Outdoor recreation is integral to life in Nevada, and the SCORP underscores that our outdoor infrastructure should inspire people to get outside, connect with nature, and enjoy our state’s diverse recreational splendor. Collectively, the goals and action items put forward under the SCORP will help elevate Nevada’s celebrated outdoor heritage for generations to come.”

— Governor Steve Sisolak

Acknowledgements We would like to acknowledge the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan Advisory Team and the Nevada Advisory Board on Outdoor Recreation members who provided key oversight, insight, and contributions to the 2022-2026 Nevada Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan. In addition, we would like to acknowledge and thank the outdoor enthusiasts and outdoor recreation professionals across the state who participated in surveys and group discussions, and provided helpful input and feedback to early drafts of this document.

Nevada SCORP Core Team Janice Keillor, Deputy Administrator, Nevada Division of State Parks

Dana Dapolito, Planning Program Manager, Nevada Division of State Parks

Heather Giger, Park and Recreation Program Manager, Nevada Division of State Parks

Colin Robertson, Administrator, Nevada Division of Outdoor Recreation

Gretchen Kelley Bietz, The Blueprint Collaborative

Lois Ann Porter, The Blueprint Collaborative

Nevada SCORP Advisory Team

Alan “Scott” Bohemier, Active Transportation Manager, Nevada Department of Transportation (former)

Kelly Clark, Rural Development Special Projects and Outreach Coordinator, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Nevada State Office (retired)

Tina Dortch, Program Manager, Office of Minority Health and Equity, Nevada Department of Health and Human Services

Cheva Gabor, Nevada State Liaison, U.S. Forest Service, Region 4 Intermountain Regional Office

Jamie Fields, Nevada State Wilderness Program Lead, Bureau of Land Management, Nevada State Office

Bobby Jones, Outdoor Connections Coordinator, Nevada Department of Wildlife

Joseph Lednicky, Economist, Community and Economic Development, University of Nevada, Reno Extension

Brina Marcus, Managing Director, High Energy Sports, Inc., and Owner/Consultant, Brinergy, LLC

Zachary Ormsby, National Monuments and National Conservation Lands Specialist, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Department of the Interior

Sydney Martinez, Content Manager, Nevada Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs

Matthew Weintraub, Deputy Administrator, Nevada Division of Outdoor Recreation

James Woolsey, Superintendent, Great Basin National Park, National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior

Cover photo: Basin and Range National Monument

Nevada Advisory Board on Outdoor Recreation Lieutenant Governor Lisa Cano Burkhead, Chair

Lieutenant Governor Kate Marshall, Chair (former)

Mauricia Baca, Nevada State Director, The Nature Conservancy

Amy Berry, CEO, The Tahoe Fund

Bradley Crowell, Director, Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

Kostan Lathouris, Chair, Nevada Indian Commission

Robert Mergell, Administrator, Nevada Division of State Parks

Dr. Andrew Pasternak, Silver Sage Center for Family Medicine

Bob Potts, Deputy Director, Governor’s Office of Economic Development

Brenda Scolari, Director, Nevada Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs

Mario Walther, Walther Law Offices

Tony Wasley, Director, Nevada Department of Wildlife

We also want to recognize the Northern Nevada International Center’s Language Center for translating the public survey into Spanish and assisting with outreach to the Hispanic/Latino communities across the state to encourage participation in the public surveys for the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP).

Acknowledgements (Continued)

Table of Contents

Executive Summary

Part 1: Introduction Nevada in Context Once in Generations: An Opportunity for Nevada Outdoor Recreation Economic Impacts in Nevada Background, Purpose, and Legal Authority Wetlands Priority Outdoor Recreation Agencies and Programs 2016–2021 SCORP: Our Accomplishments 2022–2026 SCORP: Our Planning Process

Part 2: Outdoor Recreation in Nevada: Research and Findings Outdoor Recreation Supply in Nevada 2021 Nevada Outdoor Recreation Asset Inventory Summary Outdoor Recreation Demand in Nevada Outdoor Recreation Public Survey Results Land Manager Survey Results

Part 3: 2022–2026 Nevada SCORP Framework Outdoor Recreation Issues of Statewide Importance 2022-2026 SCORP Themes Goals, Strategic Objectives, and Recommendations

Part 4: Implementation Plan How to Use this Plan Implementation Matrix Ongoing and Future Engagement

Part 5: Call To Action

7SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 1: Introduction

78Acronyms

Appendices Appendix A:

Appendix B:

Appendix C:

Appendix D:

Appendix E:

Appendix F:

Appendix G:

Appendix H:

Appendix I:

Appendix J:

Appendix K:

Appendix L:

Appendix M:

Appendix N:

Appendix O:

Table of Contents

BEA ORSA 2020 Numbers BEA Nevada 2020 Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Stateside Assistance Program Funding Overview Nevada Wetlands Priority Conservation Plan, Technical Review Draft, January 2006 Nevada Priority Wetlands Inventory 2007 Land Manager Survey Summary Data Land Manager Survey Comments 2021 SCORP Stakeholder Engagement and Targeted Outreach 2021 Nevada Outdoor Recreation System Asset Inventory Public Surveys Summary Data Public Surveys Comments County Data Reports Part 2 Survey Regional Maps Outdoor Recreation Shared Stewardship Agreement, Nevada 2022 2022-2026 Nevada Open Project Selection Process (OPSP)

(Continued)

1SCORP 2022- 2026 | Executive Summary

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Stateside Assistance Program was created to assist states in preserving, developing, and assuring accessi-bility to outdoor recreation resources and to strength-en the health and vitality of U.S. citizens.

The program provides funding for outdoor recreation acquisition and development projects for states, cities, counties, and tribal governments. To be eligible for LWCF assistance, each state must prepare a Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) every five years. This document is Nevada’s

2022-2026 SCORP.

In Nevada, the Division of State Parks (NDSP) leads the development of the SCORP, a research-based plan that evaluates the supply and demand of outdoor recreation resources and facilities across all jurisdictions. Specifically, the SCORP identifies outdoor recreation needs and opportunities for recreation improvements and development, provides the foundation for the distribution of LWCF monies for outdoor recreation and open space acquisition, and outlines the overall status of outdoor recreation in Nevada. At the core of the SCORP is an implementation plan designed to address the needs and goals identified by Nevada’s citizens, recreation planners, land managers, and community leaders.

The 2022-2026 Nevada SCORP was developed over an 18-month period and represents a collaboration between NDSP and the Nevada Division of Outdoor Recreation (NDOR). From the extensive data collection, analysis, and significant public and land manager engagement and feedback, the SCORP provides an aspirational yet essential vision for the future of outdoor recreation in Nevada.

Why does it matter? People and businesses are drawn to Nevada by outdoor recreation, which contributes substantially to Nevada’s high quality of life and plays a significant role in Nevada’s overall economy. Good-paying jobs in outdoor recreation businesses and industries drive Nevada’s economic diversification and contribute to the recruitment and retention of highly skilled workers. Outdoor recreation is a key reason why people want to live, work, and play in Nevada.

The following pages provide valuable information gained through multiple surveys that garnered almost 7,000 responses. Additional input was provided by the Nevada Advisory Board on Outdoor Recreation, and the Nevada SCORP Advisory Team. Based on this input, three themes emerged:

• Sustainable Outdoor Recreation

• Community and Economic Vitality

• Pathways to Health and Wellness

These themes respond to issues, current trends, user preferences, and opportunities for outdoor recreation in Nevada. They also reflect the finicky supply-and-demand matrix necessary to balance high-quality outdoor experiences while conserving and stewarding natural and cultural resources. The SCORP themes are interconnected and critical com-ponents to achieving a vision for the future where Nevada’s great outdoors continue to provide rich recreation experiences and enjoyment for residents and visitors alike.

SCORP 2022- 2026 | Executive Summary

2SCORP 2022- 2026 | Executive Summary

The SCORP concludes with an implementation plan outlining goals, strategic objectives, and recommendations based on public and land manager input. To address identified recreation issues, barriers and priorities, the plan also highlights the partnership needed between outdoor recreation and conservation agencies. No single entity can address all the challenges and opportunities outdoor recreation faces in Nevada.

Successful achievement of the goals outlined in this plan will come from working collaboratively across interests, sectors, agencies, and organizations to implement projects supporting meaningful outdoor experiences and vibrant communities and economies statewide.

SCORP in the time of COVID-19

The 2022-2026 SCORP has been influenced in ways different from all past plans. The data collection for this SCORP cycle took place as the nation was within the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic and, as such, certainly impacted how Nevadans participated in outdoor recreation in 2020-2021. A few of the findings that seem most influenced by the pandemic and outlined in the narrative of this document include:

Increase/decrease in level of recreating outdoors

Types of barriers to outdoor recreation

The pause/cancellation of team and organized sports in 2020/2021

Gr ea t B as in N ati on al P ar k

2SCORP 2022- 2026 | Executive Summary

3SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 1: Introduction

I N T R O D U C T I O N

Nevada in Context

Once in Generations: An Opportunity for Nevada

Outdoor Recreation Economic Impacts in Nevada

Background, Purpose, and Legal Authority

Wetlands Priority

Outdoor Recreation Agencies and Programs

2016–2021 SCORP: Our Accomplishments

2022–2026 SCORP: Our Planning Process

In this section:

Bo un da ry

P ea k Pa rt O ne

4SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 1: Introduction

Humans have an innate affiliation with nature, with a connection to the outdoors that evolved over hundreds of thousands of years. Our ancestors were required to study, understand, and rely on the natural environment for their survival. It was critical to know what plants to eat, the migration patterns of animals, and how to predict the weather.

So, it comes as no surprise — even today, with technology as a constant distraction and most learning and working occurring indoors

— that people are not satisfied with an indoor lifestyle. Concrete, asphalt, and four walls are not a natural environment for humans, and our bodies know that instinctually. More and more people are beginning to view outdoor recreation as fundamental, similar to the need for public schools, clean water, and affordable housing. Spending time outdoors is not only a necessity for a high quality of life, it is a necessity of the human spirit. We must maintain our connection to the outdoors, or we lose the connection to ourselves.

W as ho e

La ke

S ta te P ar k

Ar c

D om e W ild er ne ss

“I believe that there is a subtle magnetism in Nature, which, if we unconsciously yield to it, will direct us aright.”

— Henry David Thoreau

5SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 1: Introduction

It is no mystery why spending time outdoors is a way of life for so many Nevadans.

More than 85 percent of Nevada is public land - the highest percentage among all states in the continental U.S.1 This land is open to the public for recreational purposes, with limited exceptions. Because of the state’s large areas of public land, low population density, and high levels of public access, the outdoors is an important part of residents’ lives, visitors’ experiences, and the state’s economy.2

Geographically, Nevada is the seventh largest state in the nation in sheer land mass, with 110,000 square miles, 70 million acres, and 314 named mountain ranges3, earning the state the distinction of the most mountainous state in the continental U.S. The Silver State is known for its wide-open spaces; other-worldly landscapes; more than 6 million acres of National Forest lands; 48 million acres of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands; four national park units; and 27 state parks, historic parks, and recreation areas in all reaches of the state. While many people might conjure up images of Nevada as neon lights, casinos, deserts, and dry creek beds, Nevada has more than 200 lakes and reservoirs (including Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in North America); upwards of 600 rivers and streams;

over 300 natural hot springs (more than any other state); the oldest living trees on earth (Pinus longaeva, known as the Great Basin bristlecone pine); some of the darkest skies and brightest stars in the U.S.; and more ghost towns than “living” towns (600+).

As a result of access to the natural and cultural resources Nevada has to offer, participation in outdoor recreation in Nevada has increased in recent years4. Many factors are cited for this surge, including an increasing awareness of Nevada’s spectacular scenic beauty and diverse landscapes; the ease of access to the outdoors and public lands here; and a growing population drawn, in part, by extraordinary opportunities to recreate outdoors.

In the past decade alone, the population of Nevada grew by 14%, spiking from 2.7 million to 3.1 million people between 2010-2020. However, challenges arise with the growth in participation and appreciation for Nevada’s great outdoors. Consequences of this growth include: overcrowding in some areas; insufficient financial and/or human resources to manage, maintain, or grow park and recreation infrastructure in response to population growth; misuse, abuse, and vandalism;

and heavier use of parks, trails, and other facilities than is sustainable. In short, the integrity of existing outdoor recreation facilities, the availability of new outdoor recreation infrastructure, and positive visitor experiences is at risk.

NEVADA IN CONTEXT

D ia m on d Pe ak S ki R es or t

1 https://www.leg.state.nv.us/Division/Research/Publications/PandPReport/35-PLGNR.pdf 2 Nevada Outdoors 3 Travel Nevada, 2021 Official State Visitors Guide 4 2021Outdoor Recreation Participation Trends Report, Outdoor Foundation https://ip0o6y1ji424m0641msgjlfy-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/ wp-content/uploads/2015/03/2021-Outdoor-Participation-Trends-Report.pdf

6SCORP 2022- 2026 | Introduction

The timing of the 2022-2026 Statewide Comprehen-sive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) coincides with a constellation of historic circumstances: the COVID-19 pandemic, the incredible resilience of Nevadans in the face of pandemic-induced uncertainty, and the unprece-dented state and federal response to the pandemic.

The largest federal investments ever seen in outdoor recreation infrastructure, maintenance, and programming will be made during the period of time this SCORP is relevant, from 2022-2026. Legislation passed during the pandemic, including the Great American

Outdoors Act, the American Rescue Plan Act, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act) will contribute to the enhancement of outdoor recreation opportunities and related infrastructure across the country. Simultaneously, awareness of the importance of safe, fun, and engaging outdoor recreation experiences is increasing. The unique combination of federal investment, growing awareness, and increasing participation afford Nevada the chance to markedly improve the daily lives of citizens across the state through outdoor recreation.

ONCE IN GENERATIONS:

AN OPPORTUNITY FOR NEVADA

Go ld

B utt e N ati on al M on um en t

7SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 1: Introduction

OUTDOOR RECREATION ECONOMIC

IMPACTS IN NEVADA

Bl ac k Ro ck D es er t

5 Outdoorindustry.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/ORDA-Nevada.pdf 6 BEA ORSA 2020 Numbers

According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account (ORSA), Nevada’s outdoor recreation economy generates substantial economic benefits to the state through direct spending on travel and hotel room nights, retail equipment and gear purchases, private industry, manufacturing and logistics, and a myriad of supporting and supplemental sectors across the entire economy.⁵

The BEA established the ORSA in the U.S. Department of Commerce in 2018. The ORSA conducts annual analyses of industry specific clusters at the national and state levels, developing methods and estimates for understanding the economic contributions of outdoor recreation to state and national economies.6 The ORSA is a collaborative, intergovernmental effort to measure the impact of outdoor recreation on the U.S. economy, focusing in particular on current dollar gross domestic product (GDP), employment, and compensation estimates for the outdoor recreation sector.

In 2020, outdoor recreation in Nevada contributed:

$4 billion in economic output

49,501 jobs in the state

$2.2 billion in compensation and wages earned

3.8% of Nevada’s total employment

See Appendix A. BEA ORSA 2020 Numbers

8SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 1: Introduction

People and businesses are drawn to Nevada by its outdoor recreation opportunities.

Outdoor recreation contributes substantially to Nevada’s high quality of life and plays a significant role in the effort to grow and diversify Nevada’s overall economy. Good-paying jobs in outdoor recreation businesses and industries are driving Nevada’s economic diversification and contributing to the recruitment and retention of highly skilled workers. Outdoor recreation is a strong reason why people want to live, work, and play in Nevada.

2020 — Nevada ⁷ Economic Impacts of Outdoor Recreation in Nevada

Value added (GDP) Employment Compensation ORSA TOTAL Share of State ORSA Total Share of State ORSA Total Share of State

$4.0 billion 2.30% 49,501 jobs 3.80% $2.2 billion 2.40%

7 BEA – Nevada 2020

N ye

C ou nt y

For the Nevada 2020 BEA analysis, see Appendix B.

BEA Nevada 2020.

Value Added by Select ORSA Activity (thousands of dollars)

Activity 2018 2019 2020 State Rank

Boating/Fishing $179,497 $194,931 $260,673 34

RVing $130,914 $140,659 $155,967 31

Motorcycling/ATVing $64,214 $68,195 $76,832 34

Hunting/Shooting/Trapping $63,649 $64,701 $62,648 39

Snow Activities $53,096 $59,193 $45,111 23

Climbing/Hiking/Tent Camping $34,063 $37,256 $37,370 30

Equestrian $33,876 $31,374 $27,624 42

Bicycling $10,761 $12,753 $14,831 30

Recreational Flying $7,465 $9,062 $9,399 34

9SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 1: Introduction

The income for the entire LWCF ($900 million per year) is provided largely from Outer Continental Shelf mineral receipts.8 No taxpayer dollars are distributed through this process.9 Reflecting the goals of the LWCF Act, the goals of the LWCF Stateside Assistance Program are to:

• Meet state and locally identified public outdoor recreation resource needs to strengthen the health and vitality of the American people

• Increase the number of protected state and local outdoor recreation resources, and ensure their availability for public use in perpetuity

• Encourage sound planning and long-term partnerships to expand the quantity, and ensure the quality of needed state and local outdoor recreation resources

To be eligible for LWCF assistance for acquisition and development grants, each state must prepare and update, every five years, a SCORP to:

• Address the demand for, and supply of, public outdoor recreation resources (local, state, federal, and tribal)

• Identify capital investment priorities for acquiring, developing, and protecting all types of outdoor recreation resources

• Assure continuing opportunity for local units of government and private citizens to take part in planning for statewide outdoor recreation

• Coordinate all outdoor recreation programs throughout the state

Each state shall develop an Open Project Selection Process (OPSP) that provides objective criteria and standards for grant selection that are, in part, explicitly based on each state’s priority needs for the acquisition and development of outdoor recreation resources as identified in the SCORP. The OPSP is the connection between the SCORP and the use of LWCF grants to assist state efforts in meeting high priority outdoor recreation resource needs.

8 Land and Water Conservation Fund, Stateside Assistance Program, Federal Financial Assistance Manual, Volume 71, Effective March 11, 2021 9 https://www.nps.gov/subjects/lwcf/congressionalacts.htm

The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Stateside Assistance Program was established by the LWCF Act of 1965 to stimulate a nationwide program to assist in preserving, developing, and assuring accessibility to outdoor recreation resources, and to strengthen the health and vitality of U.S. citizens. The program provides matching grants to states and through states to local units of government for the acquisition and development of public outdoor recreation sites and facilities.

BACKGROUND, PURPOSE,

AND LEGAL AUTHORITY

La ke

M ea d

10SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 1: Introduction

The LWCF Act authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to provide financial assistance to states for outdoor recreation purposes. To be eligible for assistance under the LWCF Act, the governor of each state shall designate a State Liaison Officer (SLO) and one or more Alternate State Liaison Officers (ASLO) who have authority to accept and administer funds for purposes of the LWCF Program.

In Nevada, the LWCF program is administered by NDSP. The SLO is the NDSP Administrator and the ASLO’s are the Deputy Administrator and Park and Recreation Program Manager. LWCF monies are apportioned to the states by the Secretary of the Interior each fiscal year.

LWCF assistance may be available to:

• Acquire lands and waters or interests in lands and water for public outdoor recreation

• Develop outdoor recreation facilities to serve the general public

To be eligible for assistance, projects must be in accordance with the SCORP, be sponsored by a governmental agency, and meet other state and federal requirements. Eligible entities include local units of government and native American tribal governments.

LWCF assistance is provided on a matching basis, up to 50%, to individual projects that are submitted through the SLO to the NPS for approval.

The 2022-2026 SCORP will help guide investment in and planning for outdoor recreation projects in Nevada by providing funding to eligible entities to acquire lands and waters, as well as to develop and improve outdoor recreation infrastructure.

See Appendix C for a more detailed overview and explanation of the legal authority of LWCF.

Over the past 20 years, NDSP has granted over $19 million in federal funding for outdoor recreation through the LWCF program.

Ca rs on R id ge

D isc

G ol f C ou rs e

11SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 1: Introduction

WETLANDS PRIORITY

Wetlands provide values that no other ecosystem can.

They serve as nurseries for fish, feeding and nesting grounds for birds, and critical habitat for many animals and plants that can only live in wetlands. In fact, more than one-third of the United States’ threatened and endangered species live only in wetlands, and nearly half use wetlands at some point in their lives.10 Wetlands also provide natural water quality improvement, flood pro-tection, shoreline erosion control, and opportunities for recreation and aesthetic appreciation. The importance of wetland protection cannot be overstated. Although conservation efforts since the 1950s have reduced the substantial loss of this diminishing resource, we remain on an alarming downward trend and must prioritize this resource to protect our entire ecosystem.

Wetlands are defined by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Ser-vice (USFWS) as lands transitional between terrestrial and aquatic systems where the water table is usually at or near the surface or the land is covered by shallow water.

As required by 54 U.S.C. § 200305(d)(4), each SCORP must contain or reference a wetlands priority component consistent with Section 303 of the Emergency Wetlands Resources Act of 1986. At a minimum, the wetlands pri-ority component must:

• Be consistent with the National Wetlands Priority Conservation Plan prepared by the USFWS

• Provide evidence of consultation with the state agency responsible for fish and wildlife resources

• Contain a listing of those wetland types which should receive priority for acquisition

• Consider outdoor recreation opportunities asso-ciated with its wetlands resources for meeting the State’s public outdoor recreation needs

In 2006, the Nevada Wetlands Priority Conservation Plan, Technical Review Draft (Appendix D) was complet-ed, which contained an assessment of the conservation status of wetlands in Nevada, the state’s list of priority (vulnerable and valuable) wetlands, and strategies that state agencies can employ to conserve priority wetlands.

In 2007, Nevada prepared the Priority Wetlands Invento-ry (Appendix E) which identified 234 vulnerable wetland areas highly valued for their wildlife habitat functions as well as their capacity to convey, store, and cleanse water;

to control erosion and floods; and to provide immeasur-able socioeconomic benefits, most notably a wide variety of outdoor recreation activities. Each priority wetland area in the inventory possesses some combination of wildlife, ecological, and socioeconomic characteristics and some combination of threats and deteriorating ecosys-tem health which, in aggregate, indicate elevated conser-vation importance and need.

The Wetlands Priority remains a critical component of conservation and recreation planning in Nevada. Given the predominance of arid environments within the state, Nevada cannot withstand unmitigated wetland losses and achieve objectives to maintain and enhance our wildlife, plant, water, and outdoor recreation resources. The prior-ities and strategies contained in both documents remain current and have been considered in the development of this SCORP and the OPSP. The Nevada Division of Natu-ral Heritage will complete an updated wetlands inventory and plan by September 2022.

10 United States Environmental Protection Agency

Sti llw at er

N ati on al

W ild lif e

Re fu ge

12SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 1: Introduction

NDSP plays the lead role in planning and implementing the SCORP. Achieving the SCORP’s broad goals, however, requires the collaboration of numerous other state agencies and programs in Nevada that work to help support the SCORP’s implementation. Some of the stakeholder agencies and programs include:

Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources The Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (NDCNR) is a broad and multifaceted department consisting of eight divisions and three standalone programs committed to:

• Protecting Nevada’s natural, cultural, and recreational resources

• Preserving Nevada’s unique historic and cultural heritage

• Enhancing Nevada’s outdoor recreation, quality of life, environmental stewardship, and recreation economy

• Leading efforts to address impacts of climate change throughout Nevada

• Fostering partnerships to advance innovative solutions and strategies to protect natural resources for the benefit of all Nevadans

Fo rt

C hu rc hi ll St at e

H ist or ic

P ar k

OUTDOOR RECREATION

AGENCIES AND PROGRAMS

13SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 1: Introduction

Nevada Division of Outdoor Recreation In January 2020, the Nevada Division of Outdoor Recreation (NDOR) was established to promote Nevada’s outstanding outdoor recreation opportunities, advocate for the conservation of its natural environment, grow Nevada’s economy through outdoor recreation, and educate the public about responsible recreation and healthy and active lives enriched by the outdoors.11 NDOR is committed to:

11 http://dcnr.nv.gov/divisions-boards/ndor

• Enhancing and stewarding Nevada’s one-of-a-kind outdoor recreation opportunities

• Promoting a healthy and sustainable outdoor recreation economy centered on protecting and conserving Nevada’s natural and cultural resources

• Attracting existing outdoor recreation-oriented businesses to the state and supporting the creation of new outdoor recreation-oriented businesses in the state

• Advancing understanding of Nevada’s unique variety of outdoor recreational opportunities as central to improving public health and wellness

• Educating and engaging Nevada’s youth in outdoor recreation activities

• Engaging underserved populations, ensuring all Nevadans have equitable access to outdoor recreation

Recreational Trails Program The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) is a grant program administered by the Federal Highway Administration at the federal level, passed through to the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT), and administered by NDSP for the state of Nevada. RTP was created by the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA). Most recently, the RTP was reauthorized as part of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act. It was signed by President Obama on December 4, 2015 and covered Fiscal Years 2016-2020.

RTP applies the “user-pay/user-benefit” philosophy of the Highway Trust Fund, returning federal tax on fuel used for nonhighway recreation to the states for trail projects. Although the gas tax supporting the fund is paid primarily by gas-using vehicles, resources are shared with other users of recreational trails to develop a balanced system.

Project categories eligible for funding are varied, giving states flexibility to administer state trail programs. State administrative and educational program costs are capped at 7% and 5% respectively. States are also encouraged to work with qualified youth conservation or service corps.

14SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 1: Introduction

• Maintenance and restoration of existing recreational trails

• Development and rehabilitation of trailside and trailhead facilities and trail linkages for recreational trails

• Purchase and lease of recreational trail construction and maintenance equipment

• Construction of new recreational trails (with specific requirements when federal land is involved)

• Trail project planning and clearance activities

• Environmental education and trail building programs

• Acquisitions of lands and waters by fee simple title or permanent recreational use easements

• Assessment of trail conditions

Li nc ol n

By pa ss Tr ai l

Nevada has received over $33 million in RTP funds since 1993

Nevada Department of Wildlife The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) is the state agency responsible for the restoration and management of fish and wildlife resources and the promotion of boating safety on Nevada’s waters. Protecting and managing Nevada’s wildlife is at the core of NDOW’s purpose and mission.

Eligible projects include:

15SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 1: Introduction

The following section outlines the outdoor recreation priorities that were the focus of the previous SCORP and highlights some of the accomplishments that were achieved from 2016-2021. Also, below are excerpts from the Land Manager Survey detailing areas of significant progress over the past five years, followed by a list of LWCF-assisted outdoor recreation projects that were selected for funding due to their close alignment with the 2016-2021 SCORP priorities.

Following the project list, three exceptional LWCF projects completed in recent years are showcased.

Successful implementation of a SCORP is a comprehensive effort that requires dedication from not only the state agencies responsible for developing and adopting the planning document, but also partnering land management agencies and nonprofit organizations at the local, regional, and statewide levels.

There were eight priorities set out in the

2016 SCORP:

Maintain and rehabilitate existing facilities

Increase connectivity between trails, facilities, and other recreation locations

Ensure safety

Develop new facilities

Conserve water and habitat

Engage youth

Integrate with economic security and growth

Meet the needs of under-served regions and populations

2016-2021 SCORP:

OUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Pr iso n H ill R ec re ati on

A re a

16SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 1: Introduction

County Respondents Cited:

The 2021 SCORP Land Manager Survey asked respondents to provide highlights of significant progress made over the past five years to improve outdoor recreation opportunities. Below, and throughout this section, we provide a sampling of land manager highlights of significant progress.

Significant Progress - In Their Words

Federal Land Manager Respondents Cited:

Increased and leveraged partnerships

Finalized several travel management plans

Increased level of programming to under-represented communities

Improved visitor center

Expanded opportunities for hunting and fishing on National Wildlife Refuges

Built multipurpose trails and improved ADA walking trail stability

Upgraded campgrounds and facilities

Implemented a reservation system

Initiated three large-scale non-motorized trail projects in the last five years

State Land Manager Respondents Cited:

Stayed open through budget cuts and COVID

Different types of interpretive programs to cater to new visitor demographics

New parks

More trails in our parks, trail projects completed

Installed power to many parks

Campground upgrades and road improvements

Constructed new cabins, improved campground by providing power/water hook-ups to many more locations

Worked with Truckee Meadows Regional Planning Agency (TMRPA) on regional trail map/plan

Enhanced trail connectivity to federal lands

Reduced wildfire risk on open space parcels adjacent to housing subdivisions

Planted native plants in previous fire scars to promote native vegetation and discourage noxious weeds

Leveraged sales tax initiative funds with grants

Grant-funded trail and trailhead projects

Added parking and trailhead infrastructure

Multiple new parks

Adopted both a parks and open space master plan, and a public arts plan

City Respondents Cited:

The full results of the land manager survey are included in Appendix F: Land Manager Survey Summary Data. All land manager responses to “Significant Progress” and additional quotes/comments are provid-ed in Appendix G.

“Our greatest progress has been to partner with other federal, state, and local agencies to work towards common goals and pool limited resources.”

— Federal Land Manager

17SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 1: Introduction

LWCF Funded Outdoor Recreation in Nevada 2016-2020 SCORP Priority Award Amount Match

Jaycee Inclusive Playground D, F, H $99,984 $99,184 Bird Viewing Preserve Signage and Dock B, C, E, F $17,200 $39,781 Valley of Fire State Park, White Domes Trailhead Restrooms and Parking Expansion

A, G $100,000 $313,500

State Parks Interpretive Displays and Videos D, F, G, H $30,675 $30,675

Miguel Ribera Skatepark D, F, H $225,390 $350,000 Ross Gold Playground A, C, F, H $262,157 $261,657 Carson Ridge Disc Golf Course Complex D, F, G, H $118,785 $118,285 Kellogg Park Phase 1 D, F, H $211,519 $833,481 Walker River Restrooms D, G $463,750 $463,750 Pitchfork Ranch Development D, G $2,650,753 $3,413,669

Ice Age Fossils State Park Visitor Center D, G, H $2,394,914 $2,394,914

Simkins Park Phase III Lighting D, F, G, H $277,320 $277,320 Robert Spellberg Recreation Complex Enhancement D, F, G $42,500 $42,500 Hamm Property Acquisition B, D, E $250,000 $250,000 Somersett West Park D, F $200,000 $850,000

Lions Park Pool A, F, G, H $34,312 $34,312 Echo Canyon Campground Rehab A, G $290,125 $290,125 Spooner Lake Frontcountry Improvements D, G $593,533 $3,363,356

SCORP Planning N/A $150,600 $150,600 Ice Age Fossils State Park - Phase 2a D, F, G, H $742,050 $742,050

Totals $9,155,567 $14,319,159

Projects Funded by LWCF Since 2016, a total of $9,155,567 in LWCF funding has been awarded across the state of Nevada, with over $14 million in match. Below is a chart displaying the investments and match since 2016.

A. Maintain/rehabilitate existing facilities B. Increase connectivity C. Ensure safety D. Develop new facilities E. Conserve water and habitat

F. Engage youth G. Integrate with economic security and growth H. Meet underserved needs

18SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 1: Introduction

P R O J E C T H I G H L I G H T S

• Somersett West Park

• Jaycee Inclusive Playground

• Walker River State Recreation Area

Several projects completed during the 2016- 2021 SCORP exemplified the intent of the LWCF program, assuring that natural areas, water resources, and recreation opportunities are protected and available for public enjoyment.

Re d

Ro ck

C an yo n

N ati on al

C on se rv ati on

A re

18SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 1: Introduction

19SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 1: Introduction

Somersett West Park Located in northwest Reno, Somersett West Park was a successful partnership between the City of Reno, the Somersett Owners Association (SOA), the Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation and Toll Brothers, a residential developer for Somersett. This project consisted of the construction of a new 5.6-acre neighborhood park that includes a children’s playground, restroom, picnic shelter, pathways, open turf area, 50 community garden plots with 10 raised beds for accessibility, separate off-leash areas for small and large dogs, park furnishings, and landscaping.

The City of Reno and SOA partnered on the design and development of the site. The Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation, a local 501c(3) organization, collaborated with SOA on an online fundraising campaign to raise additional funds to support the development of the park. Toll Brothers donated two acres of property to the City to expand the park and assisted with the community garden, off-leash dog parks, construction of the driveway entrance, and parking. All were provided as match for the project.

The resulting park and interior pathways increased connectivity to Somersett’s internal trail network, a series of paved trails within the development totaling over 11 miles.

Additionally, the park provided a new outdoor recreation facility in a neighborhood of 3,900 homes, which previously was approximately 2.5 miles from the nearest park.

The park provided a new outdoor recreation facility in a neighborhood of 3,900 homes.

20SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 1: Introduction

Jaycee Inclusive Playground Prior to construction of the Jaycee Inclusive Playground, the City of Las Vegas had no centrally located inclu-sive playgrounds that were open to the public. The only playgrounds with accessible equipment for children with disabilities were in affluent areas of the city where access was limited. The Southeast Sector of Las Vegas, which in-cludes the 18-acre Jaycee Community Park, contains some of the oldest neighborhoods and parks in the city. With approximately 35% of the city’s overall population, this sector is largely underserved in terms of park acreage with a level of service well below the city standard. The South-east Sector’s current level of service is 1.36 acres of park land per 1,000 residents, the most park acreage-deficient sector compared to other parts of the city. There are four schools that primarily serve children with disabilities (ages 3 to 22 years of age) within a 2-mile radius of the park.

This project created an inclusive playground in the most underserved sector of Las Vegas. The park offers recre-ational opportunities for individuals of all ages and abilities to increase mobility, provide recreational opportunities for children with disabilities, and allow interaction with peers and family while fostering friendship in a safe en-vironment. The City of Las Vegas partnered with Variety Children’s Charity of Southern Nevada to match the LWCF funds 1:1. The project included an integrating carousel, G-flex playground surfacing, a Mega Tower, and a perma-nent shade structure to extend the season during which the playground can be used.

This project created an inclusive playground in the most underserved sector of Las Vegas.

21SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 1: Introduction

Walker River State Recreation Area

The Walker River State Recreation Area was conveyed to Nevada in 2017 by the Walker Basin Conservancy and dedicated by Governor Brian Sandoval in 2018.

The property had been under private ownership for over 125 years and was not previously accessible to the public. With over 12,000 acres, 29 miles of the Walker River and four historic ranches, the property was ideal for developing into a state park. Upon completion of the transfer, NDSP was tasked with first developing the Pitchfork Ranch for public outdoor recreation use with only two years to plan, design and construct the project.

With the assistance of approximately $2.3 million of LWCF, NDSP was able to construct a full hook-up campground with 20 sites, a primitive campground, four cabins, restrooms, picnic areas with shelters, a kiosk, and an interpretive trail. Since opening, over 200,000 visitors have taken advantage of new outdoor recreation opportunities at the park to include camping, fishing, open float water recreation, mountain biking, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

Pitchfork Ranch Development

Since opening, over 200,000 visitors have taken advantage of new outdoor recreation opportunities at the park.

22SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 1: Introduction

The planning process for the 2022 SCORP began in October 2020 with three primary groups providing initial and ongoing guidance and oversight:

The SCORP Core Team was established to drive the process for the development of the SCORP by providing guidance and operational support. This team was made up of the NDSP Planning Program Manager, the Nevada LWCF ASLOs, and the NDOR Administrator.

A consulting group, The Blueprint Collaborative (TBC), was engaged by NDSP to facilitate and carry out the SCORP planning process and lead the development of the SCORP document.

The SCORP Advisory Team was established and made up of key stakeholders from varying levels of state government, land management agencies, and outdoor recreation constituencies with geographic and demographic diversity from across the state.

The SCORP planning process was divided into three categories of work:

• February 2021 – July 2021 | Discovery: data col-lection and initial engagement

• June 2021 – November 2021 | Data analysis and further engagement with focus groups

• September 2021 – May 2022 | Report draft, ex-ternal solicitation for feedback, final report

Inventory captured asset and site details of 844 outdoor recreation facilities and sites managed at federal, state, tribal, county, and local levels.

Key to the development of the SCORP were three surveys and the first iteration of a Nevada Outdoor Recreation Asset Inventory. There were 6,807 public surveys (Outdoor Recreation Public Survey: Part 1 and Public Survey: Part 2 – How and Where You Recreate) submitted in 2021, which provided key responses regarding outdoor rec-reation participation, preferences, priorities, and barriers. This essential data provided the find-ings and informed the analysis that shaped the goals, strategic objectives, recommendations, and implementation plan defined in this document.

In addition to the public surveys, the findings of 139 land manager survey responses have been incorporated into the analysis and resulting imple-mentation plan. Further, the results of an unprec-edented Nevada Outdoor Recreation Asset

2022-2026 SCORP:

OUR PLANNING PROCESS

W al ke r R iv er

S ta te R ec re ati on

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23SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 1: Introduction

Data Collection Tool/Method

Intended Audience Timeframe # Responses or Participants

Survey Completion Rate

Outdoor Recreation Public Survey:

Part 1 Statewide public outreach Feb – Jul 2021 6,086 92%

Public Survey: Part 2 – How and

Where You Recreate

Emailed survey to 1,479 participants from Public Survey Part 1 who agreed to provide additional information

Apr – Jul 2021 720 95%

Land Manager Survey

Federal, state, city, county, tribal, private, land trust, general improvement district land managers

Mar – Sep 2021 139 55%

Outdoor Recreation Asset Inven-tory

Federal, state, city, county, tribal, private, land trust, general improvement district land managers

Apr – Sep 2021 844 N/A

Focus groups/small group meetings

SCORP Advisory Team

Advisory Council for Outdoor Recreation

Federal/state land managers

City/county managers/Parks and Rec-reation directors, Travel and Tourism representatives

Jun - Nov 2021

N/A

SCORP Draft Review &

Feedback

Public (survey posted in English &

Spanish on NDSP website, posted on social media)

SCORP survey respondents (email addresses for 1,479) and all SCORP small group participants

Jan – Mar 2022

901 unique views

74 feedback surveys

100%

For each of the three surveys and the asset inventory, beta tests were conducted by targeted users to solicit feedback and ensure usability before the actual surveys and inventory were officially launched.

To encourage maximum participation in the public surveys, NDSP and NDOR enlisted the assistance of the public information officers at NDCNR, as well as the Office of Governor Steve Sisolak, and Travel Nevada, among others. A social media campaign was launched on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram that included links to the public survey in both Spanish and English.

For a list of additional people, organizations, agencies, and both formal and informal networks that were solicited to assist in the distribution of the public survey, see Appendix H: 2021 SCORP Stakeholder Engagement and Targeted Outreach.

24SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 1: Introduction

This SCORP brings together the wants and needs of Nevada’s outdoor recreation users and providers into a single, comprehensive document. The following pages carry out the objectives established for this plan, which were to:

Summary

Once the survey period closed, TBC conducted the initial data compilation and analy-sis. Summary data was then shared across a variety of smaller groups of stakeholders for input (see chart above for groups engaged).

Through the discovery and analysis process, themes and goals emerged, which the SCORP Core Team used to draft strategic objectives and recommended tactics to address the goals and barriers that had been identified in the process. This initial content was presented to several small groups in focus group settings, including land managers, county/city planners and managers, travel and tourism representatives, etc.

• Establish outdoor recreation goals, objectives, and recommendations

• Set evaluation criteria to allocate LWCF dollars

• Protect, conserve, and provide direction for man-aging public lands, recreation spaces, and unique places for current and future generations

• Encourage a highly integrated and connected outdoor recreation system

• Provide information to ensure a diverse and growing population has access to outdoor recre-ation spaces and opportunities to enjoy a range of recreation activities

• Communicate the connections between sustain-able outdoor recreation, individual health and wellness benefits, community health and vitality, and a thriving economy

• Elevate public participation and engagement in outdoor recreation planning initiatives and issues

Sa nd

M ou nt ai n Re cr ea tio n

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25SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 2: Outdoor Recreation In Nevada

Outdoor Recreation Supply in Nevada

2021 Nevada Outdoor Recreation Asset Inventory Summary

Outdoor Recreation Demand in Nevada

Outdoor Recreation Public Survey Results

Land Manager Survey Results

In this section:

OUTDOOR RECREATION

I N N E VA D A : R E S E A R C H

A N D F I N D I N G S

W as ho e

La ke

S ta te P ar k Pa rt T w o

26SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 2: Outdoor Recreation In Nevada

Over 85 percent of land in Nevada is managed for public use – which, with limited exceptions, includes recreational opportunities. Nevada contains more federal acreage than any other state in the continental U.S. This massive resource is at the core of the Silver State’s “supply” of outdoor recreation opportunities.

The results represent a wealth of information which will be used by land managers to assess the gaps, and implement actions to fund and develop outdoor recreation infrastructure.

This information will not only assist with closing the gaps but will ultimately contribute to the overall economic health and diversity in Nevada communities by informing the development of additional outdoor recreation opportunities, one of our state’s fastest-growing economic generators.

Our outdoor recreation opportunities are managed by federal, state, county, city/municipal and tribal jurisdictions. Below is of a sampling of opportunities enjoyed across Nevada annually by tens of millions of Nevadans and visitors alike.

To determine the amount and types of outdoor rec-reation infrastructure that we need, we must know what we have, along with what consumers want. It’s a simple supply and demand exercise, and in this case, one done specifically for outdoor recreation. Over the course of six months, NDSP and NDOR collected data regarding supply, demand, current use, and desired use of outdoor recreation.

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27SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 2: Outdoor Recreation In Nevada

Pershing

White Pine Churchill

Mineral

Esmeralda

Clark

Storey

Elko

EurekaLander

Nye

Lincoln

Carson City

Washoe

Lyon

Humboldt

Douglas

National Conservation Area

National Monument

National Wildlife Refuges

Tribal Lands

US Forest Service (USFS)

Nevada State Parks

National Park Service (NPS)

Bureau of Land Management (BLM)

Private or Restricted Lands

0 50 10025 Miles

Public and Tribal Lands in Nevada

28SCORP 2022- 2026 | Part 2: Outdoor Recreation In Nevada

Recreation Supply Managed by Federal Agencies National Park Service Units NPS manages two parks in the state: Great Basin National Park and Death Valley National Park.