Editorial: Setting aside land for defense

Monday, Nov. 23, 1998 | 11:45 a.m.

Kenny Guinn hasn't even been sworn in yet as governor, but he already has made a misguided policy recommendation, placing him at odds with both of Nevada's U.S. senators. Guinn is meeting opposition for his view that Congress should lock up permanently 3 million acres for the Nellis Air Force Range to use.

Among prominent officials and groups outside the military, Guinn's voice has been the lone one in advocating an indefinite grant to the Air Force to use this land. While some believe the Air Force should be allowed to continue to use the Nellis Air Force Range, most sentiment favors allowing the land to be used for a set period of time, requiring periodic reviews.

The Air Force has been able to carry out its mission at Nellis Air Force Base under the existing arrangement, in which a 1986 federal law let the Air Force use the 3 million acres until 2001. The Air Force now is suggesting that Congress extend the 2001 deadline either for 25 years or indefinitely. We believe a 25-year period is reasonable and would be extended again if a need is shown.

An assortment of groups -- miners, environmentalists, recreationalists and military watchdogs -- don't want this land locked up permanently. They correctly believe that if international conditions change, and with it the base's mission, some of the land could be withdrawn for civilian purposes.

Guinn is guided by the best intentions in believing this land should be set aside permanently. Guinn told the Sun's Cy Ryan that doing so would help the local economy. If this land is secured permanently, the federal government would be willing to pour more money into improvements and buildings.

Despite Guinn's beliefs, a periodic review is desirable, as both Sens. Harry Reid and Richard Bryan pointed out last week. Reid said the state needs to be careful as military bases expand and their missions change. Bryan noted that with Southern Nevada's explosive growth, the government shouldn't lock up the land needlessly.

For decades Southern Nevada has contributed to -- and supported -- national defense efforts, including the operations at Nellis Air Force Base. But it is important that Congress maintain periodic reviews of the land's use, making sure it is compatible with this nation's defense needs.