On Nov. 4, Sen. Jacky Rosen’s office announced $375 million is coming to Nevada for improvements to recreational opportunities, and to protect public lands and conservation efforts.
The funds come through the Southern Nevada Public Land Management Act (SNPLMA), which returns revenue from public land sales in Clark County to the state.
Churchill County is slated to receive the largest award in Northern Nevada, around $42 million, for three softball fields on six acres of county-owned land, new outdoor park amenities, and an expansion to existing facilities at the 3C Event Complex in Fallon.
Much of the funding went to Southern Nevada. SNPLMA guidelines outline “buckets” for which money can be used, and more Southern Nevada projects qualified under the parameters set by lawmakers than projects from other parts of Nevada.
It is up to individual counties to apply to the Department of the Interior for funds. Counties must present plans for each project and show that it meets award eligibility requirements. The Bureau of Land Management then has input. The Nevada division of the BLM typically posts funding opportunities on its website but does not usually send out proactive emails requesting applications.
The RN&R spoke with Jesse Segura of Churchill County Parks and Recreation. He confirmed Churchill County was awarded $42 million for the projects. He said the Maine Street softball fields are about 50 years old and clearly require upgrading. He added that the county anticipates the 3C Event Complex project will turn out to be a beautiful facility and is a much-needed addition to recreational opportunities for Fallon’s young residents.
There is one other Northern Nevada awardee: Carson City has been allocated $14.9 million for its Mills Park Master Plan Implementation.