Meeting Time: January 17, 2024 at 1:30pm PST
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Where: NANNINI ADMINISTRATION BUILDING, SUITE 102 540 COURT STREET, ELKO, NEVADA 89801 ELKO, NV 89801

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Agenda Item

L.1) Discussion and consideration to appropriate up to 120 acre feet of surface water rights to the Nevada Department of Wildlife for their development of a recreational area including fishing ponds, educational opportunities, and a park-like setting.     Up to 120 acre feet of surface water rights are necessary based on RCI's recommendation to ensure appropriate water conditions can be maintained in the pond complex to support a sustainable fishery.

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    Andrew Ostendorf 8 months ago

    Elko County Commissioners,

    I am writing in support of transferring some water rights from Elko County to the Nevada Division of Wildlife for the new urban fishery and wildlife education center.

    The Humboldt River area has traditionally been an eye sore for our community and by cleaning it up the park will provide citizens a place to come together, experience nature, and recreate. The positive impact these types of parks have are very evident when visiting other Nevada communities which have them.

    Additionally, the park will provide opportunities for the agency to connect with citizens both young and old through fly fishing clinics, free fishing days, kids events such as fishing derbies and “Trout in the Classroom”, and variety of wildlife and conservation program. These programs help instill a sense of respect for our natural environment and build upon conservation efforts to protect the wild landscapes that we all love about our State.

    Financially, the monetary value of the water rights can be used as match for federal funding used in the construction on the site at a rate of 1 to 3. For every $1 in water rights, the project can receive $3 in federal grants. This amount combined with volunteer time and community donations of labor, materials, construction equipment will be very valuable to putting a project of this size together.

    In conclusion, I ask that the County look at the positive impact that this proposal will have for our community.

    Thank you,

    A Ostendorf