Nancy Hall, Mesquite

Fri, Nov 28, 2008 (2:02 a.m.)

I have been actively advocating for wilderness designation in the Gold Butte area since 2000, and I have participated in stakeholder meetings with decision makers. The growth stimulated from the Clark County Lands Act in 2002 has created negative effects on resources in Gold Butte that were not foreseen during collaboration on the bill.

Fortunately, Congresswoman Shelley Berkley understands the urgent need to protect the spectacular natural and cultural resources in Gold Butte while balancing its recreational needs.

Recreation opportunities currently permissible in the Gold Butte area are not threatened by the designation of a National Conservation Area with wilderness. The proposed wilderness designation does not close a single designated route.

A National Conservation Area will give Gold Butte permanent protection from development; wilderness designation will protect critical desert tortoise habitat and allow open space for those who seek solitude and a more primitive experience of the desert.

The Wilderness Act allows for fighting wildfires to protect resources, and though grazing is permitted in wilderness and NCA, it has been withdrawn from Gold Butte for more than a decade.

What is the future of the historical resources we cherish? Stewards have reported the Gold Butte corral and Devils Throat corral are being dismantled and used as firewood. Joshua trees are also being used for campfires. Whitney Pockets boasts pioneer, ranching and Native American history. It is being ravished by heavy use, irresponsible fires, human waste and graffiti. This is just an example of the continued loss of our resources in the area.

If we don’t take action through legislation and stewardship, experiencing the history of the area will vanish. Certainly, Gold Butte should be accessible to all Americans. Let’s ensure future visitors have the same experience we enjoy today.

The writer is president of the group Friends of Gold Butte.