The state of Nevada has acquired 2,980 acres of federal land formerly administered by the US Forest Service. These lands surround Cave Lake State Park near Ely in White Pine County.
The undeveloped acquired lands nearly triple the size of Cave Lake State Park. Administrator of the Nevada Division of State Parks Eric Johnson said, “The area is ideal for additional trail development in this scenic part of rural Nevada, allowing State Parks to further enhance recreational opportunities in White Pine County.”
Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval said the significant acquisition will benefit Nevada’s park system and eventually provide enhanced recreational opportunities for those who visit Cave Lake.
The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources reported that the land transfer is the first of three proposed acquisitions by the State identified and directed by the White Pine County Conservation, Recreation, and Development Act of 2006.
As centerpieces of scenery and recreation, State parks have grown in importance to Nevada’s economy. Nevada’s terrain is diverse, offering alpine forests and bone-dry deserts and is a haven for all sorts of outdoor activities. Mountain biking, fishing, horseback riding, skiing, hiking you name an activity and Nevada is bound to have a park to offer it.
Two more land acquisitions are in place and are planned to be completed by the end of the year. The lands are Bureau of Land Management (BLM) administered and will be additions to the Steptoe Wildlife Management Area and Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park in White Pine County.
The growth of state parks is a reason to celebrate for Nevadans.
Nevada boasts 23 state parks, recreation areas and historic sites. Thousands of tourists visit Nevada’s back country every year to experience the beauty that is Nevada. The state economy thrives on these tourists. Just the user fees alone from State Parks in fiscal year 2015 generated around four million for Nevada’s economy. The user fees do not include revenue from gift shops which directly funds interpretive events.
“Nevada’s State Parks are an integral part of the economy in our rural communities and to our state’s overall tourism sector. They offer unrivaled opportunities for residents and visitors alike to experience the rich scenery, history, and culture of our beautiful state,” said Sandoval.
