WHEREAS, Nevada’s public lands are an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, featuring premier opportunities, historic treasures, and off-road adventures, as well as habitat for more than 300 native species living exclusively in Nevada; and

WHEREAS, Nevada’s public lands feature a diverse array of landscapes, from sculpted desert sandstone to limestone cliffs with caves and fossils, and from colorful volcanic ranges to high peaks with ancient bristlecone pines and lush oases that stand in contrast to open sagebrush valleys; and

WHEREAS, Nevada’s public lands protect vital pieces of our region’s important cultural heritage, including historic treasures of civilizations that thrived in the region and whose descendants still protect their legacy, deserted mining settlements and contemporary works of art, more than 110,000 recognized historic and cultural resources, and 424 iconic buildings/archaeological sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places; and

WHEREAS, Nevada’s State Parks offer recreational opportunities and adventures for all – including camping, boating, fishing, hiking, exploring historic sites, and more than 50,000 miles of off-highway vehicle trails; and

WHEREAS, eleven Wildlife Management Areas totaling 120,000 acres have been established to enhance and protect wildlife habitats and welcome public hunting, fishing, and other recreation opportunities; and

WHEREAS, blending conservation of Nevada’s spectacular natural resources with sustainable recreation is key to promoting economic development, protecting the environment, and enhancing quality of life for Nevadans; and

WHEREAS, last year, Nevada established the Division of Outdoor Recreation, within the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, to promote outdoor recreation and tourism, support a vibrant and sustainable recreation economy, attract businesses, promote recreation’s public health benefits, meet the needs of underserved regions and populations, and foster a new generation of public land stewards in all parts of Nevada; and

WHEREAS, in 2020, Governor Sisolak launched the State of Nevada Climate Initiative to move Nevada forward on climate action by developing innovative solutions that will protect Nevada and its natural resources; and

WHEREAS, Nevada’s precious wildlands are more important than ever in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, when being able to escape to the outdoors is critical for our mental and physical health and well-being; and

WHEREAS, Nevadans are urged to enjoy the outdoors safely and responsibly by following all fire restrictions and ‘leave no trace’ practices, avoiding crowded destinations, and opting for low-risk outdoor activities; and

WHEREAS, the residents of Nevada support efforts to promote sustainable outdoor recreation and celebrate these irreplaceable natural and cultural treasures; and

WHEREAS, on Saturday, September 26, 2020, Nevada State Parks fees, including entrance, camping (Saturday night), and boating, where applicable, will be waived at all state parks throughout Nevada;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, STEVE SISOLAK, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF NEVADA, do hereby proclaim September 26, 2020, as

PUBLIC LANDS DAY IN NEVADA