Hardy: Nevadans need ‘legitimate voice’ in lands decisions, denied such in Basin and Range designation

(Scott Knuteson) – WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Cresent Hardy (NV-4) released the following statement concerning President Barack Obama’s designation today of more than 700,000 acres as Basin and Range National Monument, in the congressman’s district:

“I feel strongly that the best management of our public lands comes only through methodical consideration and partnership across all levels of local, state and federal government. That’s why I’m disappointed for the Nevadans who were left out of the process, including the commissioners of both counties affected: Lincoln and Nye. In May, I broke the news of the Administration’s plan to make the Basin and Range National Monument designation, and this week introduced an amendment to protect local input and increase transparency with such designations, which was adopted and I hope to see pass in the near future.

“We need to be sure local communities don’t have their concerns ignored by politicians eager to leave a legacy or pull favors for their friends by setting aside huge tracts of land. Nevada’s rural county economies are particularly sensitive, and any decisions that affect ranching, recreation or other types of land use activities should have as much local input as possible. We should empower local communities and local stakeholders most affected by monument designations under the Antiquities Act to have a legitimate voice in the process, but at the moment, they do not. Legacy building in the twilight of one’s career shouldn’t be the driver of our nation’s public land management.”

Congressman Cresent Hardy represents Nevada’s 4th Congressional District. He serves on the House Committee on Natural Resources, the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and the House Small Business Committee.