NEVADA/ARIZONA – The Lake Mead National Recreation Area has seen a significant increase in illegal roads and off-road vehicle trails in recent years with visitors attempting to access the shoreline as water recedes. A previous survey documented 824 miles of illegal roads, but the area currently estimates a total milage well above double that number.
In response, the National Park Service has awarded $8.66 million in Conservation Initiative funds from the Southern Nevada Public Lands Management Act (SNPLMA) to address the impacts over a five-year project.
The project is set to assess the impacts of the illegal roads on sensitive natural and cultural resources specifically located in Government Wash and Overton Arm. Additionally, park officials will work to understand public interest for recreation and education opportunities in the popular areas in order to develop area-specific management plans.
“This will be a heavily partnership and community-oriented project. We look forward to working closely with the public, tribes, and conservation-focused partners to help protect cultural and natural resources in these key park locations. Together we will take the next steps for the park’s future, working to elevate the beauty and recreation that makes Lake Mead special.” – Park Superintendent Mike Gauthier