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5.2.2 Competition for Water Rights In October of 1989, the Las Vegas Valley Water District (LVVWD) filed applications with the State Engineer’s office for over 860,000 acre-feet of water rights in rural Nevada for virtually all the unallocated perennial yield water in northeastern Nye County. Since the initial filing, LVVWD informed the public that it has revised the amount of water that is needed, but LVVWD has not amended the applications that were filed to reflect this revision. In addition to the water resource commitments, there are large water right filings in some basins that are ready for action by the NDWR. In all, applications are outstanding for more than 333,000 acre feet in the basins that are located wholly or partially in Nye County (as of March 1999). Foremost are those associated with the Southern Nevada Water Authority’s (SNWA) plans to export water from Nye County and other rural Nevada counties to metropolitan Las Vegas. In 1989, LVVWD filed 32 groundwater permit applications with points of diversion in Nye County. Six of these applications have been withdrawn, but the remaining 26 applications, totaling more than 140,000 acre feet in Railroad Valley (North and South), Garden Valley, and Coal Valley, are ready for protest (NCWRP, 2004).

The locations of these water rights are in the north and south Raifroad Valley basins, the Coal Valley basin, the Garden Valley basin, and the White River Valley basin. These basins are located in areas that are currently undeveloped or only partially developed. However, these areas contain considerable mineral (including petroleum) and geothermal resources which would require water to develop. Consequently, if the requested water rights are granted to LVVWD, future mineral and oil development and potentially other forms of economic development could be affected, if not precluded.

Given that a significant amount of Nye County’s water resources have been appropriated via water rights and that water is a prerequisite for economic development and community survivall development, it is necessary that Nye County pursue all available means to ensure an adequate water supply. 5.2.3 Surface Water Nye County also has a number of surface water sources. While some of these surface waters originate in the mountain areas in the form of streams, others are ground waters that come to the surface on lower lands in the form of springs. These waters are becoming more valuable to the county in that a great number of these sources serve as a key element in the future development of recreation resources for Nye County. Development of recreation resources would help expand the Nye County economy and provide another source of income 5.2.4 Water Conservation Conservation planning identifies specific measures that will reduce water consumption and not adversely affect the quality of life. Water conservation is a vital aspect of any water system in an arid climate where water resources are limited and drought cycles last for 7 to 10 years. Water conservation prolongs the life of water system facilities by reducing stresses on groundwater aquifers, reducing chemical and electrical demands at pumping stations, reducing pump run times, and allowing room for growth by reducing the commitment to storage, pumping and water rights.

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Coordination with Regional Water Planning Groups Nye County is a member of the Central Nevada Regional Water Authority (CNRWA), an eight county unit of local government that collaboratively and proactively addresses water resource issues common to communities in Nevada’s rural interior. Groundwater basins in the Central Nevada region receive little contemporary recharge, are often interconnected by subsurface flows and depend largely on ground water discharge to supply present and future natural and human uses. Nye County should continue its commitment to this organization and to the regional efforts in developing sufficient hydrologic 3information.’ Drought Contingency Methods/Emergency Management Plan Drought or a number of other uncontrollable circumstances can disrupt normal availability of a community’s water supply. Even though the county or individual water system may have an adequate water supply, the supply could become contaminated; a disaster could destroy the supply; or system treatment, storage, or distribution failures could present the county with an emergency demand management situation. The Emergency Water Management Plan provides procedures to respond to these emergencies. It is important to distinguish emergency demand management planning from water conservation planning. Drought contingency measures serve as precautionary measures to avoid or minimize the impact of drought-related water shortages or other emergencies. While water conservation involves implementing permanent water use efficiency or reuse practices, emergency plans establish temporary methods or techniques used only as long as an emergency exists.

5.3 Air Quality The responsibility for the maintenance of a healthy level of air quality in Nye County rests with the county government. Nevada Department of Environmental Quality (NDEQ) has identified a methodology for the monitoring and control of carbon monoxide and PM-lO pollutants (i.e., particles less than 10 micrometers in diameter)’ through its state implementation plans. These plans identify actions and recommendations4 for the county to undertake in order to improve the measured levels of these pollutants in the atmosphere. Most of these controls involve the restriction of uncontrolled clearing of land and the development and use of dirt roads. 5.3.1 Carbon Monoxide Carbon monoxide 2(C0 is a colorless, odorless gas that results primarily from the incomplete combustion of hydrocarbon) based fuels. In sufficient concentrations, it can be toxic because it tends to reduce the oxygen carrying capacity of blood. In the valleys of Nye County, carbon monoxide air pollution is most common during the winter months because of low wind conditions. Stagnant air masses can trap pollutants increasing concentration levels. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established two National Ambient Air Quality Standards for carbon monoxide: 1) thirty-five parts per million for a one hour average, and 2) nine parts per million for an eight hour average. The EPA determined that when carbon monoxide concentrations rise above these levels there is a hazard to the public health. Areas that violate one or both standards, more than three times in a three-year period, are designated as a

13 Central Nevada Regional Water Authority at URL http://www.cnrwa.com/ http:findep.nv.gov/baqp/monitoring/pahrumpmonitor2.html February‘4 23, 2011 Page 43 DRAFT - Nye County Comprehensive Plan non-attainment area. In Nye County, as in other areas, motor vehicles are the major source of 2CO emissions, comprising approximately 86 percent of total daily emissions. 5.3.2 PM-1O Nye County is an arid desert environment where wind-blown dust is a natural phenomenon. The major sources of man-caused PM-10 are dust from construction activities, unpaved roads, disturbed vacant land, and unpaved parking/staging areas. Background sources (e.g., undisturbed natural desert) and particles formed from motor vehicle combustion also contribute to PM-JO emissions.

The EPA has one National Ambient Air Quality Standard for PM-10: 150 micrograms per cubic meter for a 24 hour average.’ The EPA determined that there is a hazard to the public health when concentrations5rise above that level as particles are inhaled into the lungs causing respiratory distress.

5.4 Endangered Species As the population continues to grow in the towns of Nye County, it is important to balance growth and development and to meet the minimum regulations imposed by the federal government regarding the needs of existing species of plants and animals. On April 2, 1990, the desert tortoise was listed as threatened by the FWS, thereby bringing it under full protection of the federal Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA). At the time of the development of this update to the Comprehensive Plan, a single-species Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) for the desert tortoise in southern Nye County has begun. It is anticipated that the HCP will be approved by the FWS and result in the issuance by FWS of an Incidental Take Permit (ITP) for desert tortoise. This will ultimately reduce the burden on future development within the plan boundary by allowing projects to apply (to Nye County) to be covered by Nye County’s ITP, rather than having to develop their own HCPs on an individual basis.

Habitat conservation and mitigation measures will be implemented through development and passage of Nye County ordinances that incorporate the mitigation measures into the county’s site development process. Combining ESA compliance measures with the county’s existing planning and development process reduces the burden on covered projected and significantly shortens project schedule, as project proponents would not have to apply for an ITP from the FWS for each individual project. Additionally, establishing compliance with the HCPs at the county level would ensure that future development on private land in Nye County’s threatened and endangered species habitat would not risk federal law enforcement actions for violations of the ESA.

5.5 Soils Conservation practices relating to local soils conditions overlap a number of other issues discussed elsewhere in this Conservation Plan and other elements of the Comprehensive Plan. For example, poor or negligent soil conservation practices can have negative effects on both air and water quality through blowing dust, erosion of soils impeding storm water flows, and creation of public safety risks. The county may have areas of problematic soil conditions that are

‘ http://www.epa.gov/air/particlepollution/

February 23, 2011 Page 44 DRAFT - Nye County Comprehensive Plan unsuited for development by virtue of the fact that they may collapse or expand when they hydrate. Still other areas are subject to tectonic movement due to sub-surface fissures created by horizontal groundwater movement. This section contains a discussion of selected soils management practices and recommendations for county action to adequately address concerns related to such practices.

5.5.1 Soils Management - Agriculture Areas of the county used as farmland are primarily for livestock grazing purposes. Management of agricultural areas produces a variety of issues that can affect the environment. Runoff from irrigation increases the transport of sediment and contaminants downstream. Contaminants routinely found include: herbicides, pesticides, fecal coli forms and nitrates. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) publishes material outlining best management practices that area agricultural and livestock communities can employ to deter such contaminant migration.

The BLM regulates livestock grazing on publically managed lands through issuance of grazing allotments. Figure 8 shows grazing allotment boundaries within Nye County. The grazing allotments are federal lands upon which private individuals graze livestock. Animals such as feral horses, burros, mule deer and desert big horn sheep are managed by BLM within designated Herd Management Areas as specified in BLM Las Vegas, Ely and Battle Mountain RMPs (Figure 9). ts 5.6 Energy Conservation The predominant sources of energy consumed in Nye County are either non-renewable or produced from non-renewable resources. For this reason, it is important that steps be taken to: • Reduce the use of these resources to the maximum extent possible through conservation and other measures. • Encourage the responsible development of renewable energy projects within Nye County while protecting the county’s natural resources (e.g., groundwater). The cost of power generation has escalated and is expected to continue to rise. Alternative energy sources, such as wind and solar power, are abundantly available in the region, and are becoming more economically feasible.

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NYECOUNTY GRAZING ALLOTMENTS

Legend LJ GrazingAllotment

o 2550 •Kilometers z Miles

Figure 8. Grazing Allotments.

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- .-.

NYE COUNTY HERD MANAGEMENT AREAS

• Burro Horse Horse& Burro

o 2550 Kilometers

Figure 9. Herd Management Areas.

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5.7 Mineral and Energy Resources The mineral resources industry is the second largest employer and the largest tax payer in Nye County. For example, in 2010 over 1,379 workers (over 12.9 percent of Nye County resident employment) were employed by the industry. Additionally, companies supporting purchases from mineral resource companies or their employees employ substantial numbers of workers in the Nye County construction, retail and service sectors either directly or indirectly. In 2009, the mining industry in Nye County paid an estimated $5,973,361.13 in net proceeds tax. The State Department of taxation calculates the net proceeds by deducting allowable expenses from gross yield. During 2009 Nye County’s mineral activities saw net proceeds of $160,724,331.00. Mineral resource companies also pay substantial property taxes on facilities and equipment. During fiscal year 2007-2008, $78,032,570.00 were paid in property tax on mining facilities and improvements in the state of Nevada. Mining activity generates a substantial amount of property tax revenues for the county. In fiscal year 2008, the Nevada mining industry saw an estimated $3,637,504.00 and oil & gas activities saw $255,387.00 in taxable sales.

Mineral reserves are a fmite resource; consequently the life of mineral resource projects is also finite. When mineral resource companies cease operations prematurely or without adequate planning, communities often face falling property values, and must bear the cost of funding excess capacity in local government facilities and services. Conversely, when mineral resource companies plan for closure, and provide opportunities for workers and the community to make the necessary transition, community disruption is minimized and community infrastructure can be preserved as a resource for other economic and community development opportunities, including further mineral resource development.

5.7.1 Minerals, Oil and Gas Nye County has an abundance of mineral resources, including but not limited to the following:

Gold Borate Silver Bentonite Molybdenum Copper Saponite Lead Hectorite Zinc Mercury Marble Magnesite Cinnabar Brucite Barite Turquoise Sepiolite Fluorspar Diatomaceous Earth Cinders Sand &Gravel

Oil production in Nye County is located in Railroad Valley. The total annual oil production from Nye County (gross valuation if $14.9 million in 2009) is a minor portion of U.S. production. Nevada’s oil production in 2009 was 454,593 barrels (0.023 percent of total U.S. production). Minor amounts of natural gas are also produced in association with the oil production.

Figure 10 shows the major operational sites for mineral extraction including, oil and natural gas operations.

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1l8W l17W 116W 115W Eurekaj\ ( i—i Ch?rchiII I , / I

dT1Lcarve i ‘i/ 1 \r1N, JI ‘t A/9urri;eflt

Li / Manhatta: ‘ 2(vIL7/S lu 14 Sunnyside Mina 15 . ”74 Nyala WarmSprings

6 ‘9 —f .- 6 Tonopah ,

‘. r ‘ V ‘ - Goldfield -‘ Rachel

‘ Jii, MAP ID MINENAME 0 Uda 1 Round Mountain Mine 2 Gabbs Mine ?‘ 3 Cinder Cone Pit SctysJunctlon 4 IMVPit5 • - ‘ 5 Gamebird Pit

V ’.r:’j- J!—/L1 ‘; 6 Pahrump Community Pit NYE COUNTY , 7 Currant ‘ 8 Duckwater Creek MAJOR MINES 4 9 TrapSpring AND 10 Eagle Springs OIL FIELDS I , 11 Ghost Ranch Legend RhyoI ‘ 12 Sand Dune .,, 13 - 7 Kate Spnng • Industrial Mineral Mines 14 SansSpring 95 4ç4 15 Bacon Flat r • Metal Mines 16 Grant Canyon - Mercury OilFields Indian Springs -

Amar sa Valley • Active,Authorized and Pending Mines 4• oh Oiland Gas Leases - 5 , A - I’ah*u p 5 0 25 , 5 - S Kilometers - Miles 6 0 25 50 16 z Source: Hess, R.H. and D. Davis, 2010. Nevada Active Mines and Energy , , Producers: Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, Map 170 and BLMGeocommunicator. -

Figure 10. Major Mines and Oil Fields

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5.8 Renewable Energy - Solar, Geothermal, Wind, and Biomass With the increasing focus on renewable resources, clean energy is the fastest growing industry in the State of Nevada, according to the Nevada Commission on Economic Development.’ Nevada is rich in renewable energy resources and leads the nation in geothermal and solar power potential, with suitable areas for wind power development in many portions of6the state (U.S. Energy Information Administration).’ The state of Nevada has an aggressive Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) that requires all public utilities to generate 25 percent of their electricity from renewable7 energy resources by 2025, with at least 6 percent from solar energy through 2016 — 2025 (Database of State Incentives for Renewables and 8Efficiency).’ With its abundant renewable energy resources and ample open land, Nye County is well-suited for renewable energy projects (Figure 11). Nye County encourages responsible development of renewable energy projects. The sections below describe the most abundant renewable energy resources in Nye County: solar, geothermal, wind, and biomass. 5.8.1 Solar Energy Solar resources in Nye County are among the best in the nation for both concentrating solar power (CSP) and photovoltaic (PV) systems. In March 2010 Nye County performed a Suitability Analysis for Nye County Solar Generation, Transmission, and Related Support Facilities. The suitability model included primary variables of solar resources, slope, and land exclusions (federally protected lands). Secondary variables included proximity to flood and seismic hazards, proximity to roads and power transmission corridors, visual resources and desert tortoise and sage grouse habitats. The analysis results were presented in a map (Figure 12) showing the locations of “good, better, and best” suitable lands in Nye County for solar development.

Currently, several solar projects are being considered for development in Nye County. These projects continue to contribute an annual lease option fee per acre prior to development. Two solar projects, the Solar Millennium project in Amargosa Valley and the Solar Reserve project near Tonopah received the final Record of Decision (ROD) from the BLM in 2010 to proceed with development. Nye County supports the continued development of additional solar plants where they are deemed economically and environmentally desirable.

16 Nevada Commission on Economic Development website at URL http://www.diversif’nevada.com!industry/ renewable energy!

17 Energy Information Administration — Nevada Quick Facts website at URL http://www.eia.gov/cfapps/state/ state_energyprofiles.cfm?sid=NV

18 Database of State Incentives for Renewable and Efficiency (DSIRE) website at URL http://www.dsireusa.org!

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NYE COUNTY RENEWABLE ENERGY

Legend • Approved Solar Projects S Solar Energy Applications - Pending

Geothermal Leases - Authorized

Wind Energy Testing Applications - Authorized

25 50 Kilometers

Source: BLMGeocommunicator

Figure 11. Potential Renewable Energy Development Areas.

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ll7W Lander

Belmont Manhattan

SOLAR SUITABILITY

Legend [] Approved Solar Projects Solar Energy Applications SOLAR SUITABILITY Unsuitable Good Better Best 50 Kilometers

50

Source: Nye County Nuclear Waste RepositoryProject Office,2010. Nye County Solar Generation, Transmission, and Related Support FacilitiesSuitabilityAnalysis.

Figure 12. Nye County Solar Suitability.

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5.8.2 Geothermal Resources Nevada has some of the richest geothermal resources in the world, and is second in the nation in generating electricity from its geothermal power plants (U.S. Energy Information Administration). Nevada has the potential to become one of the most productive resource areas for geothermal energy generation. In a 2008 report, the USGS estimated that for identified geothermal resources in Nevada, during the next 30 years electrical power generation will range from 515 to 2,551 megawatts, with a mean probability of 1,391 megawatts. Additional electric power generation potentials are estimated for undiscovered geothermal resources and enhanced geothermal systems.

A large portion of Nye County is considered very favorable for development of enhanced geothermal systems. Several new geothermal plants are planned to meet Nevada’s renewable energy portfolio standard. Map 6 — Nye County Geothermal Resources shows that Gabbs, Raifroad, Monitor, and Hot Springs valleys within Nye County have the potential for high- temperature (>150°C) geothermal systems. The site in Nye County that is being investigated as a location for development of a production facility is the Darroughs Hot Springs Area. Currently, Nye County receives $561,815 from geothermal lease payments annually. 5.8.3 Wind Resources Nye County has abundant wind resources, although wind power is the youngest of the alternative energy sources used in the state (Nevada Commission on Economic Development). Areas with annual average wind speeds around 6.5 meters/second and greater at the 80 meter height are generally considered to have suitable wind resource for wind development. The s Wind Program and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) developed an updated wind resource map for the state of Nevada in January 2010. This map indicates that Nevada has wind resources consistent with utility-scale production. Good-to-excellent wind resources are located on the higher ridge crests throughout Nye County and the state (Figure 13). 5.8.4 Biomass Among the western states, Nevad&s forests are unique. The state is characterized by forested mountain ranges separated by wide non-forested basins. In an assessment conducted by the U.S. Forest Service (Born et a!., 1992), it was estimated that almost 14 percent of Nevada was forested. This study estimated that there was about 1.55 million acres of pinyon-juniper woodland in Nye County.

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• RoundMountain

Belmont • Manhattan

ANNUAL AVERAGE WINDSPEED AT80 METERS Legend

Wind Energy TestingApplications Wind7.o Speed (meters per second) — — — — 50 Kilometers Miles 50

Source: Wind www.awstruewind.com

Figure 13. Wind Resource Estimates

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5.9 Flood Control and Drainage Floods are natural events that are considered hazards only when people and property are affected. Physical damage from floods includes the following: • Inundation of structures, causing water damage to structural elements and contents. • Erosion or scouring of stream beds, roadway embankments, foundations, footings for bridge piers, and other features. • Impact damage to structures, roads, bridges, culverts, and other features from high- velocity water flow and from debris carried by floodwaters. Such debris may also accumulate on bridge piers and in culverts, increasing loads on these features or causing overtopping or backwater effects. • Destruction of crops, erosion of topsoil, and deposition of debris and sediment on croplands. • Release of sewage and hazardous or toxic materials as wastewater treatment plants are inundated, storage tanks damaged, and pipelines severed. • Floods also cause economic losses through closure of businesses and government facilities and disruption of communications and utilities such as water and sewer service. Flooding results in excessive expenditures by emergency response agencies and general disruption of the normal functions of a community. 5.9.1 Flood Magnitude Floods are described in terms of their extent (including the horizontal area affected and the vertical depth of floodwaters) and the related probability of occurrence. Flood studies often use historical records, such as those obtained from stream flow gages, to determine the probability of occurrence for floods of different magnitudes. The probability of occurrence is expressed as a percentage for the chance of a flood of a specific extent occurring in any given year. The magnitude of flood used as the standard for floodplain management in the United States is a flood having a 1 percent probability of occurrence in any given year, also known as the 100-year flood or base flood. The most readily available source of information regarding the 100-year flood is the system of Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) prepared by FEMA. These maps are used to support the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The FIRM maps show 100- year floodplain boundaries for identified flood hazards. These areas are also referred to as Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) and are the basis for flood insurance and floodplain management requirements. The FIRMs also show floodplain boundaries for the 500-year flood, which is the flood having a 0.2 percent chance of occurrence in any given year. The most recent FIRM map for Nyc County is dated February 17, 2010 (Map 7 — Nye County Flood Zones).

In order to avoid, minimize, and/or mitigate damage or destruction due to flooding, the Board developed goals, policies, and objectives and passed Nye County Ordinance No. 149. This ordinance, known as the Nye County Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance was in effect as of February 1, 1993.

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5.10 Goals, Objectives, and Policies - Conservation

AIR QUALITY CONSERVATION GOAL-i: Protect the air quality of the county.

Objective 1 - Coordinate issues such as Air Quality, with state and federal government entities and agencies in a timely fashion.

Policy A. Limit the amount of airborne particulate matter caused by land clearing and construction through adequate dust containment practices, and in areas of new construction, by reducing the amount of land on which the native soils are disturbed or removed to that immediately required for development.

Policy B. Enhance public educational efforts concerning air quality issues, sources and solutions.

Policy C. Continually monitor air quality conditions should and mitigate ident/ied health impacts.

Objective 2 - Fully and adequately identify air quality problems.

Policy A. Develop and implement long-term solutions by the respective local government departments and agencies vested with those responsibilities.

AIR QUALITY CONSERVATION GOAL-2: Ensure that landscaping materials throughout the county are free of noxious and high-allergen species.

Objective 1 - Phase out non-native or high allergen species over time and adopt appropriate planting prohibitions.

Policy A. The county will develop a list of recommended species of plants and trees.

Policy B. Update planning ordinances to restrict new developments to planting vegetation on the recommended species list.

HABITAT AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION GOAL-i: Work with appropriate federal, state and local agencies to identify wildlife resources and habitat areas that exist within the county.

Objective 1 - Coordinate with other government entities and agencies in regards to Habitats and Wildlife in a timely fashion.

Policy A. The county may determine it necessaiy to protect and preserve desert flora andfauna to the extentpracticable.

Policy B. Develop and implement HCP planning that balance the needfor growth withprotection of threatened and endangered species.

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SOIL CONSERVATION GOAL-i: Ensure that landscaping practices and other measures intended to increase the arability of local soils do not contribute harmful chemicals to the environment or result in the loss of productive agricultural lands.

Objective 1 - Areas of poor soil quality are identified.

Policy A. The county will iden4fy and encourage appropriate development within flood prone areas.

Policy B. The county will establish development standards that recognize constraints of extreme soil characteristics.

Objective 2 - “Brownfields” sites are appropriately remediated and redeveloped for safe and productive urban uses.

Policy A. The county will use available state andfederal programs that provide for research, testing, analysis and remediation of urban sites that may have been exposed to contamination bypaint, dry cleaningfluids and other toxic chemicals.

Policy B. The county will work with the appropriate agencies to encourage timely enforcement and clean-up of illegal dumping.

ENERGY AND RESOURCE CONSERVATION GOAL-i: Maximize the use of freely available alternative energy resources in Nye County.

Objective 1 - Promote the use of environmentally responsible alternative energy sources.

Policy A. The county should examine alternate energy sources, such as wind and solar power and determine thefeasibility and cost-effectiveness of harnessing and utilizing these resources in countyfacilities.

ENERGY AND RESOURCE CONSERVATION GOAL-2: Encourage new residential developments to include environmentally responsible energy conservation measures.

Objective 1 - Improve the level of energy efficiency in local building projects, in order to reduce the overall demand for electric power and natural gas resources.

Policy A. The county should endorse building practices that include energy efficiencies.

ENERGY AND RESOURCE CONSERVATION GOAL-3: Promote energy and resource conservation in existing developments and facilities.

Objective 1 - Demonstrate Nye County’s commitment to energy and resource conservation, and encourage others to follow the county’s example.

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Policy A. Retrofit existing county facilities to be more energy and resource efficient. Examples include installation of low water-use toilets, installation of energy efficientwindows and lighting, and efficient heating/cooling systems.

Policy B. Implement education programs and policies that encourage conservation of energy.

WATER GOAL-i: Identify, develop and maintain adequate water supplies throughout the county to ensure public health, safety, and welfare and accommodate future economic development needs.

Objective 1 - Nye County will continue to participate in ongoing efforts to develop accurate assessments of water supply and demand in each basin by participating in the Nevada State Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Division of Water Resources work program.

Objective 2 - Nye County will identify future water demand based on; 1) locally developed economic and population projections, 2) historic use, 3) an inventory of the county’snatural resources, and 4) estimates of water necessary to develop those resources. This information will be coordinated with the Division of Water Planning’sobjective to define future water needs.

Policy A. Require that all Nye County area land use plans include projections of water demand analysis to support future land use and economic development needs. (from the NCWRP)

Policy B. Research and develop possible water sources for future recreation potential. (from the NCWRP)

Policy C. Review the output of the Division of Water Planning’s’forecast models regarding Nye County to ensure that they are compatible with Nye County demandforecasts and acceptable to the Board.

Policy D. Develop a process for evaluating proposed interbasin transfer of water for use outside of Nye County

Policy E. Develop and implement mechanisms, such as development review requirements and building standards, to ensure the availability of water supplyfor future Nye County economic and community development needs. (from the NCWRP)

Policy F. Recognize established and granted state water rights in support of state law.

Policy G. Encourage efficient and non-wasteful use of limited resources through public awareness.

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WATER GOAL-2: Protect and develop water resources that are essential to the county’s short and long term economic and cultural viability.

Objective 1 - Transfers in water use be carefully considered in relationship to the history, traditions, customs and culture of Nye County.

Objective 2 - Federally proposed designation of wild and scenic rivers and all federal policies regarding riparian management in Nye County be coordinated with the Board.

Objective 3 - Nye County prepare plans for the protection of all threatened and endangered species within its boundaries and that federal agencies managing land, waterways and wetlands containing such species shall coordinate their management activities and plans with the Board.

Objective 4 - Nye County, in consultation with the State Engineer, consider water markets for existing as well as future water rights for agricultural, municipal, industrial, and domestic purposes.

Objective 5 - Nye County considers alternative uses of water, including but not limited to recreation and hydroelectric power.

Objective 6 - Regional water plans be assessed and may be considered for inclusion as part of this plan.

Objective 7 - Nye County promotes and be actively engaged in providing opportunity for the development of water-based recreation within the county.

Objective 8 - Nye County reviews all water policies to determine if they are appropriate and adequate.

Objective 9 - The Board be notified of all state, regional, interstate, and federal actions that have any impact on the water of the county prior to such actions being initiated. Such proposed actions, shall be coordinated with the Board prior to adoption and implementation.

Policy A. The county will develop,plan, implement, and bepart of the management of the county’s water resources and all other natural, cultural, and economic resources in concert withfederal and state planning and management agendas.

Objective 10 - Nye County implements its Water Resource Plan to safeguard both water quantity and water quality and to ensure that any new course of action by the Federal Government does not adversely impact water users inside the county.

Objective 11 - Nye County implements its Water Resource Plan in concert and coordination with landowners, ranchers and the appropriate state and federal agencies.

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WATER GOAL-3: For all Nye County managed water systems, the county will implement educational programs to reduce consumption of water by educating the citizens of Nye County about conservation practices through an aggressive public information program

WATER GOAL-4: For all Nye County managed water systems, the county will implement system controls and procedures that will minimize water loss.

MINERAL RESOURCES GOAL-i: Mineral operations should be consistent with best management practices for the protection of the environmental qualities and the multiple use of public lands.

Objective 1 - Allow economically viable mineral formations in the county be developed.

Objective 2 - Areas of valuable mineral resources be identified for future resource development.

MINERAL RESOURCES GOAL-2: Accommodate mineral resource industry and maximize benefits for Nye County.

Objective 1 - Nye County and its communities encourage mineral resource industry development, while maintaining quality of life for existing residents as well as the employees and families of new mineral resource development.

Objective 2 - Nye County and its communities will be able to accommodate mineral resource development without undue financial burden for county taxpayers.

Objective 3 - A process be developed that allows Nye County and the mineral resource industry to learn from past successes and failures.

Objective 4 - The development review and entitlement process is not unduly costly or time consuming for the mineral resource industry, and should adequately address the health, safety and welfare of the citizens and environment of the county.

Policy A. Nye County shall coordinate withfederal and state land management and permitting agencies in order to ascertain impacts on local government, including, but not limited to: • Provide estimates of the construction and/or operations work force and associated population. • Describe how the work force would be accommodated with existing and planned housing resources. • Identifr the effects of mineral resource project employees on local government infrastructure facilities and services such as schools, roads, municipal sewer and water services (where appropriate), emergency response, fire protection and other county and community services.

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Objective 5 - The phasing of mineral resource project closures is accomplished with the minimum amount of community disruption and at no cost to county taxpayers.

Policy A. As an element of the permitting process described above, new mineral resource operations will be required to prepare and implement a plan that will prepare employees and affected communitiesfor ultimate cessation of operations.

Objective 6 - Mineral resource operations are developed in a manner compatible with other land uses.

Policy A. Development of operation plans for new mineral resources willprovide a description of the proposed operation and identfy any potential impacts on public health, safety and infrastructure including any proposed mitigation measures. An analysis prepared for a federal or state permit could be used to satisfy all or any part of this requirement.

MINERAL RESOURCES GOAL-3: Retain existing mining areas and promote the expansion of mining operations and promote exploration and development of potential mineral deposits.

Objective 1 — Ensure full and reasonable access to land where the mineral estate is in federal ownership.

Objective 2 - Mineral development of the public domain lands be encouraged and supported, consistent with multiple use guidelines.

Objective 3 - The Federal Mining Law of 1872 remains in effect as the basic law relating to mining activities.

Objective 4 - That unreasonable barriers, prohibitions and impediments to exploration and development, except for those that arise naturally from a regime of secured private property rights; free market conditions; and protection of the health, safety, and general welfare of the citizens and environment of Nye County; be eliminated.

Objective 5 - Encourage state and federal agencies to coordinate reclamation plans with Nye County.

RENEWABLE ENERGY GOAL-i: Provide for Nevada’s energy needs through coordinated resource planning and management between private enterprise and government to plan for development of energy resources.

Objective 1 - Federal land management agencies develop an inventory of possible sites for solar, wind, geothermal and biomass power facilities.

Objective 2 - Oil and gas resources are inventoried and development encouraged. Public lands with a high potential for oil or gas resources should not be withdrawn from exploration.

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Objective 3 - Future energy transmission corridors are planned for in conjunction with other uses on public and private lands.

FLOOD CONTROL AND DRAINAGE GOAL-i: Promote the public health, safety, and general welfare, and minimize public and private losses due to flood conditions in specific areas.

Objective 1 - Protect human life and health and public and private investment.

Objective 2 - Minimize expenditures of public money for costly flood control projects.

Objective 3 - Minimize the need for rescue and relief efforts associated with flooding.

Objective 4 - Minimize damage to public facilities and utilities located in areas of special flood hazard.

Objective 5 - Property owners and potential buyers can readily ascertain if property is in an area of special flood hazard.

Objective 6 - Those who occupy the areas of special flood hazard assume responsibility for their actions.

Policy A. Restrict or prohibit uses that are dangerous to health, safety, and property due to water or erosion hazards, or that result in damaging increases in erosion orflood heights or velocities.

Policy B. Require that uses vulnerable to flood damage is properly protected against flood damage at the time of initial construction.

Policy C. Control the alteration of natural flood plains, stream channels, and natural protective barriers, which help accommodate or channel floodwaters. Constructflood controlfacilities to reduce storm water runoff

Policy D. Control filling, grading, dredging, and other development that may increase flood damage. Discourage the disruption of natural flow patterns and encourage the maximum use of natural drainage ways for runoff control, trails, and open space.

Policy E. Prevent or regulate the construction of flood barriers that will unnaturally divertfloodwaters onto other areas.

Policy F. Require engineered flood plain and hydrologic analysis to be prepared for new large developmentproj ects within the 100-yearflood plain.

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6.0 TRANSPORTATION AND STREETS AND HIGHWAYS PLANS Transportation Plan: According to NRS 278.160, this topic should consist of maps and text “showing a comprehensive transportation system, including locations of rights-of:way, terminals, viaducts and grade separations. The Plan may also includeport, harbor aviation and related facilities.” Nye County’s Transportation Plan addresses many of these topics, and the county is currently upgrading its system for tracking and managing rights-of-way.

Streets and Highways Plan: This topic should consist of text and maps “showing the general locations and widths of a comprehensive system of major traffic thoroughfares and other traffic ways and of the streets and the recommended treatment thereof building line setbacks, and a system of naming or numbering streets, and numbering houses with recommendations concerning proposed changes.”

Transportation in Nye County is almost exclusively dependent on vehicular traffic. Therefore, county roads and state highways are critical to commerce and industry as well as growth, development, and the general quality of life in Nye County (Map 8 — Nye County Roads System). For this reason, the transportation and streets and highways plans are treated as one element of the Comprehensive Plan.

This subject matter is under review and revision to meet the requirements of NRS 278.160.

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7.0 SOLID WASTE PLAN Pursuant to NRS 278.160, the Solid Waste Disposal Plan shall show general plans for the disposal of solid waste. The NAC 444.658 further states “that every municzpality’ must develop a plan for the management of solid waste within the area of its jurisdiction,9 together with a program for carrying out the plan. The area or region to be included in such plan is the area within the boundaries of each county in the State, except in those instances where an incorporated city develops and carries out a separate plan. Suchplans must be comprehensive in scope to provide for all parts of a complete solid waste management system. In those areas where plans for a solid waste management system have already been developed and approved, plans must be updated as necessary to conform to NAC 444.570 to 444.7499, inclusive.”

Consistent with this mandate, an updated 2009 Solid Waste Management Plan (SWMP) was adopted on October 20, 2009. The 2009 SWMP is adopted by reference to integrate the SWMP into this Comprehensive Plan. in addition to the 2009 SWMP, the following goals and objectives are established.

7.1 Goals and Objectives- Solid Waste

SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT GOAL-i: Provide a summary of actions taken, with recommendations for future planning for solid waste management in Nye County.

SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT GOAL-2: Project operating methods, and provide a basis for budgeting solid waste and wastewater management and operating each fiscal year.

SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT GOAL-3: Provide a sound basis for compliance with state and federal requirements for solid waste management practices within the county.

Objective 1-Nye County develops ordinances to regulate or prohibit the disposal of out-of-state and out-of-county waste within the boundaries of Nye County.

Objective 2- Nye County coordinate with BLM and stakeholders in setting aside public lands for the location of future landfills and transfer facilities.

SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT GOAL-4: To assure that all private facilities in the county have solid waste management plans in place, and to provide a basis to confirm that operations are in compliance with the plans.

19 “Municipality” means any county and any city or town, whether incorporated or unincorporated, and Carson City. (NRS,444.470 “Municipality” defined — added to NRS by 1971, 1178).

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8.0 ECONOMIC PLAN

This topic, as described by NRS 278.160, should “show recommended schedules for the allocation and expenditure of public money in order to provide for the economical and timely execution of the various components of theplan.”

The appropriation, allocation, and scheduling of funds for infrastructure and improvement projects is of critical importance for the continued growth and vitality of Nye County. The prioritization of capital improvement projects establishes a hierarchy of need coordinated with the availability of funds.

Sound infrastructure and public facilities are essential for the safety and convenience of residents and the provision of high quality services to residents and visitors alike. The purpose of this element is to describe revenue sources, infrastructure and improvement funding needs and provide a schedule of expenditures for Nye County. The element also sets forth goals, policies and programs that encourage decision-makers to provide support for the maintenance and expansion of infrastructure and the cQntinued improvements that will benefit the residents and businesses within Nye County as well as visitors to the county.

8.1 Capital Improvement Plans A Capital Improvement Plan, or CIP, is a short-range plan, usually four to ten years, which identifies capital projects and equipment purchases, provides a planning schedule and identifies options for financing the plan. Essentially, the plan provides a link between a municipality, school district, parks and recreation department andlor other local government entity and a comprehensive and strategic plans and the entity’sannual budget. 8.2 Capital Improvement Funding Sources Impact fees imposed on new development is one method to finance costs for constructing capital improvements or facility expansions necessitated by new development. As a result of fluctuations in economic conditions and population growth that annual amount of funding can vary from year to year.

8.3 Future Capital Improvement Funding Sources For the county to fund the necessary expansion of facilities over the next several years, the county will need to consider alternative finding sources in addition to those in current use. Additional funding sources may be:

• Bonds — General obligation bonds or revenue bonds may be used for parks and recreation projects, public safety facilities and County facility projects.

• Public land sales — Proceeds from the sales of public lands may fund the development of parks, trails and natural areas.

• Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) Bonds — Reimbursements for street construction and flood control projects may be received from RTC bond proceeds. The debt would be repaid with gasoline taxes.

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• Fire Safety Tax — A property tax may be used to improve the county’s fire protection facilities and staffing.

• Sales Tax increase — Reimbursement received from a Sales Tax increase may be used to repay bonds issued to design and construct flood control projects.

• Contributions — Businesses or individuals who either wish to fund special projects or want a particular benefit, e.g., road surfacing and drainage projects are partially funded with contributions to have the project completed. • Fund Balance—Reserve monies accumulated from prior years’ appropriations for work- in-progress projects.

• Future Bonds — General obligations bonds or revenue bonds to be issued in the future per the CIP recommendation.

• Grants — Federal monies received from: o Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) programs. o HOME Grant programs.

• Local Governments — Reimbursements from other government entities per interlocal agreements.

• Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) — Reimbursements received from NDOT paid from tax revenue for traffic safety programs, as well as gasoline tax revenues for roadway maintenance.

• Room Tax — Monies received from the State of Nevada for a legislatively imposed 1 percent motel/hotel room tax to be used exclusively for transportation projects.

• Service Fees — Charges to individuals based on their usage on special services.

• Special Assessments — Amounts received from certain property owners to defray all or part of the cost of capital improvement projects deemed to benefit those owners’ properties.

8.4 Restricted Funds Restricted funds are those that are limited in some manner such as a specific geographic area like a neighborhood or town. Examples of these funds are:

Special Improvement Districts (SID) A Sifi is a device whereby the county acts as the agent for property owners to construct streets, sidewalks, curbs and gutters, sewer and water lines, streetlights, and other local improvements. It is the only mechanism the law provides for having public improvements made in an area when 1) the property owners in the area desire the improvement, but some or all of them cannot pay in cash, or 2) when the majority of property owners in the area want an improvement and the minority does not want to pay its fair share. The basic purpose of a SID is to afford a property owner the opportunity of using their property as collateral for financing their prorated share of the proposed improvement and allows payment of this indebtedness at a low rate of interest which is based on the Bond Buyers Index of 20 Municipal Bonds most recent publication of

February 23, 2011 Page 66 DRAFT - Nye County Comprehensive Plan rates. Property owners have the option of paying for the costs of the improvement within 30 days or may extend their payments over a period of 2 to 30 years.

Business Improvement District (BID) A BID provides improvements and activities — such as sidewalk cleaning, trash collection, graffiti removal, security, marketing and events — to a commercial district. Its purpose is to supplement, not replace, government services. BIDS are based on a benefit assessment model whereby property owners in a given area agree to assess themselves additional revenues that will be used for services in that area. These revenues are not managed by the county but by property owners themselves. A BID is formed by the private sector, which in most cities must show that a majority of those who will pay the assessment are in support, usually through filing a positive petition with the county Commission. The BID board of directors is made up of district property and business owners who set the policies and oversee operations. The board hires professional staff to manage the district on a daily basis.

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) CDBG is a grant program administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) on a formula basis for entitlement communities. This grant allots money to cities and counties for housing rehabilitation and community development, including public facilities and economic development. The Nye County is an entitlement community grantee which utilizes its Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding to develop viable communities by providing decent housing, a suitable living environment, and opportunities to expand economic opportunities, principally for low and moderate income persons. HUD awards grants to entitlement community grantees to carry out a wide range of community development activities directed toward revitalizing neighborhoods, economic development, and providing improved community facilities and services.

General Improvement District (GID) The GID is a quasi-public agency established under NRS 318 authorized to construct, acquire, operate, and maintain public facilities in the district. The GID can be formed by any county commissioners or an elected board of trustees. The GID may set rates, tolls and fees to be charged for the provision of the facilities and services that it determines to preserve or enhance the general health, safety and welfare of the community. The GIJJ may also borrow or raise funds to acquire, construct and/or provide those facilities and services to the community. The GID has the power to levy and collect taxes necessary to sustain its operations.

Within the limits of the statutes, the GID is empowered to provide certain facilities and services to the community, which gives it more control over the level of facilities and services offered as well as their maintenance. The GID is authorized to issue various types of securities to fund facilities, services, maintenance and its operations, such as Revenue Bonds, GO Bonds, and Assessment Bonds, all of which offer more public financing options for the developers and builders.

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8.5 Goals, Objectives, and Policies- Economic Plan

ECONOMIC PLAN GOAL-i: Develop a countywide CIP program.

Objective 1- The county shall determine the optimal funding method to finance future CIP projects.

Objective 2 - The county effectively plans for the service and facility needs for the county as a whole

Policy A. County will investigate the alternatives for funding the county’s CIP needs.

ECONOMIC PLAN GOAL-2: Evaluate the CIP on an annual basis.

Objective 1 - Assure projects that maintain public welfare and/or essential services and infrastructure such as roadways, flood control and sanitary sewer systems are given the highest priority and adequately funded.

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9.0 HISTORIC PROPERTIES PRESERVATION PLAN

Per NRS 278.160, this topic involves “an inventoiy of signfIcant historical archeological and architectural properties as defined by a city, county or region, and statement of methods to encourage preservation of thoseproperties.”

This element of the Comprehensive Plan establishes goals, objectives, and policies for the protection of historic properties located within Nye County. Nye County has many buildings, objects, districts and sites that have historic, archaeological, cultural and/or architectural significance that should be preserved in order to appreciate the early development of the county. It is important for these resources to be preserved as a “living” part of the community, not just in text and photographs.

The early character of Nye County is represented by a wide range of resources that include not only monumental buildings such as the Belmont Courthouse, Tonopah Courthouse, the Manhattan School, and prestigious homes, but also more common and functional buildings such as commercial and industrial buildings such as those in Tonopah. These buildings are “coming of age” and need to be considered in this element. Historic buildings and sites are inherently marketable elements of urban form that promote a community’s distinct identity.

The positive economic value of preserving historic urban areas for cultural and heritage tourism has long been substantiated. Historic downtowns perpetuate the character and ambience, creating an authentic experience for both residents and visitors that cannot be found elsewhere. Preservation not only has intrinsic value but can also stabilize and improve the value of adjacent buildings and promote neighborhood enhancement. An additional economic rationale for historic preservation includes the benefits of rehabilitating and reusing older buildings, since the existing investment in the structure and servicing of a building reduces material and labor costs. In addition, special local, state and/or federal tax incentives and grant funding may also be available.

9.1 Background A national policy of preserving historic resources of national significance for public use was established by the Historic Sites Act of 1935, which established the National Historic Landmark Program. This legislation empowered the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the National Park Service (NPS), to use the Historic American Buildings Survey to survey, document, evaluate, acquire and preserve archaeological and historic sites.

The National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (NHPA) established the National Register of Historic Places as a list of districts, sites, buildings, structures and objects significant in American history, architecture, archaeology and culture. NHPA provides for a National Register of Historic Places to include districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects significant in American history, architecture, archaeology, and culture. Such places may have national, state or local significance. It establishes the administrative and legal context for the State Historic Preservation Offices to establish local historic preservation commissions. This allows local

February23,201l Page69 DRAFT - Nye County Comprehensive Plan municipalities to participate in the national historic preservation program. The Act is designed to encourage the preservation and the wise use of our cultural resources.

The Act includes: • National Policy, which establishes the policy of the United States Government regarding historic preservation to promote conditions in which historic properties can be preserved. • The National Register that gives power to the Department of Interior to establish, maintain and expand the National Register of Historic Places. • The Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) that creates an independent federal agency responsible for advising the President and Congress on Historic Preservation matters. • The Certified Local Governments program that allows for the certification of local governments whose historic preservation programs meet specific standards further allowing the local government access to special grants-in-aid and technical assistance from the State Historical Preservation Office (SHPO) to assist with preservation activities. • SHPO, which establishes the administration of the national historic preservation program at the state level. The SHPO designates the responsibility of developing a statewide plan for preservation, surveying, and nominates properties to the National Register, provides technical support to federal, state and, local agencies and the public. The NPS administers, reviews, and provides the majority of funding for the Nevada SHPO programs. The SHPO also administers the Commission for Cultural Affairs grants, NPS grants, National and Nevada State Registers of Historic Places, the historical marker program, and the Comstock Historic District Commission.

The SHPO provides many important services to local governments and historic preservation commissions such as assisting with development of historic preservation programs; advising and assisting in federal, state and local historic preservation projects; participating in the review of federal, state and local undertakings that may affect historic properties; and, providing public information, education, training, and technical assistance in historic 20preservation. 9.2 Designation of Historic Resources Before an historic resource can be formally listed on an historic register, detailed field investigations and analytic procedures must be completed to uncover pertinent facts about the resource. For a building, one will research the architect, the date and methods of construction, the type of materials, previous owners, location of the building, and other factors. This information can be used to build associations with significant historic or pre-historic events, persons, architectural styles or methods of construction. Prior to such investigations, all resources must be considered potentially significant, unless there is evidence that meeting at least one of the criteria is unlikely. The National Register of Historic Places, a division of the NPS is the nation’s inventory of historic places worthy of preservation. The National Register has

20 For more information on the Nevada SHPO, visit http://dmla.clan.lib.nv.us/docs/shpo.

February 23, 2011 Page 70 DRAFT - Nye County Comprehensive Plan established criteria for evaluation under the NHPA, as amended, which provides a threshold of significance. Beyond this threshold, it is usually possible from existing data to assess the general level of resource sensitivity. Sensitivity takes into account resource quantity, resource quality, and the susceptibility of the resource to adverse impacts.

Once the resource is linked to a significant aspect of history, it is judged based on its remaining level of historic integrity. This is the ability of a property to physically convey its significance. To be officially designated, a resource must not only be shown to be significant under the local, state or national criteria, but it also must have integrity. The evaluation of integrity is sometimes a subjective judgment, but it must always be grounded in an understanding of a resource’s physical features and how they relate to its significance. Historic properties either retain integrity (this is, convey their significance) or they do not. Within the concept of integrity, the National Register criteria recognize seven aspects or qualities that, in various combinations, define integrity. To retain historic integrity a property will always possess several, and usually most, of the aspects. The retention of specific aspects of integrity is paramount for a property to convey its significance.

9.3 National Register Criteria for Evaluation The quality of significance in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, and culture is present in districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects that possess integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling and association, and: • Are associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history. • Are associated with the lives of persons significant in our past. • Embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction, or that represent the work of a master, or that possess high artistic values, or that represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction. • Has yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in prehistory or history. 9.4 National Register of Historic Places Currently, Nye County has 51 designated historic resources, which include buildings, structures, sites, districts, and objects. These resources are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Each designated resource in Nye County has an association with Nye County history. Of the 51 historic resources, the Belmont Courthouse and Berlin are owned and maintained by Nevada State Parks. Ownership of most of the sites are private, particularly those sites in Tonopah. Places and Buildings in Nye County that have been listed on the National Register of Historic Places are shown in Table 1.

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Table 1. National Register of Historical Places for Nye County.

DATE NAME ADDRESS ENTERED Bartlett, George A., House 123 Stewart Street, Tonopah 5/20/1982 Bass Building 119 St. Patrick, Tonopah 5/20/1982 46 miles NE of Tonopah, off NV 82, Belmont Historic District 6/13/1972 Tonopah vicinity Mariposa and Davis Streets, Round Berg, William H., House 1/11/1984 Mountain

Berlin Historic District Off Nevada 23, Berlin 11/5/1971 Boak, Cada C., House Ellis Street, Tonopah 5/20/1982 Board and Batten Cottage Prospect Street, Tonopah 5/20/1982 Board and Batten Miners Cabin Oddie Avenue, Tonopah 5/20/1982 Brann Boardinghouse Bryan Street, Tonopah 5/20/1982 Brokers Exchange 209-251 Brougher Street, Tonopah 5/20/1982 Brown, Hugh H., House 129Ellis Street, Tonopah vicinity 5/20/1982 Burdick, E.E., House 248 Prospect Street, Tonopah 5/20/1982 Butler, Jim, Mining Company; Stone 314 Everett Avenue, Tonopah Row Houses 5/20/1982 Campbell and Kelly Building Corona and Main Streets, Tonopah 5/20/1982

Clinton, Charles, Stone Row House 151 Central Street, Tonopah 5/20/1982

Combellack Adobe Row House Central Street, Tonopah 5/20/1982 Curtis, Un B., House/Tasker L.; Ellis Street, Tonopah Oddie House 5/20/1982 Dunham, Samuel C., House Belmont Avenue, Tonopah 5/20/1982 Frame Cottage 183 Prospect Street, Tonopah 5/20/1982 GatecliffRockshelter SE of Austin, Austin vicinity 4/27/1979 Golden, Frank, Block Brougher and Main Streets, Tonopah 5/20/1982 Gregovich, John, House 101 Summit Street, Tonopah 5/20/1982 About 5 miles E. of Fish Springs, Fish James Wild Horse Trap 11/19/1974 Springs vicinity Kendall, Zeb, House 159 University Avenue, Tonopah 5/20/1982 Gold Street between Mineral Street and Manhattan School 3/8/2006 Dexter Avenue, Manhattan Ohio Avenue and Second Street, Masterson, Dr. J.R., House Tonopah 5/20/1982 McDonald, Irving, House 191 Booker Street, Tonopah 5/20/1982

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NAME ADDRESS DATE ENTERED McKim, H.A., Building Main and Oddie Streets, Tonopah 5/20/1982 Mizpah Hotel 100 Main Street, Tonopah 7/7/1978 Nevada-California Power Company; Corner of Knapp and Cutting Streets, Substation & Auxiliary Power 7/26/1982 Tonopah Building Nye County Courthouse McCulloch Street, Tonopah 5/20/1982 Nye County Mercantile Company 147 Main Building Street, Tonopah 5/20/1982 Raycraft, Arthur, House Booker Street, Tonopah 5/20/1982 Sawle, Judge W.A., House 155 Central Street, Tonopah 5/20/1982 Area 10,Nevada Test Mercury Sedan Crater Site, vicinity 3/21/1994 Shaw, Cal, Stone Row House Central Street, Tonopah 5/20/1982 Shields, ER., House 351 St. Patrick, Tonopah 5/20/1982 Saint Marks P.E. Church 210 University Avenue, Tonopah 5/20/1982 State Bank and Trust Company 102 Brougher, Tonopah 5/20/1982

Stone Jail Building and Row House Water Street, Tonopah 5/20/1982

Tonopah Liquor Company Building Main Street, Tonopah 5/20/1982

Tonopah Main Post Office 201 Main Street, Tonopah 2/28/1990

Tonopah Mining Company Cottage Queen Street, Tonopah 5/20/1982

Tonopah Mining Company House Queen Street, Tonopah 5/20/1982

Tonopah Public Library 171 Central Street, Tonopah 5/20/1982 Tonopah Volunteer Firehouse and Brougher and Burro Streets, Tonopah Gymnasium 5/20/1982 Tonopah-Extension Mining Main Street, Tonopah Company Power Building 5/20/1982 About 55 miles NE of Tonopah, Off US Tybo Charcoal Kilns 11/19/1974 6, Tonopah vicinity Verdi Lumber Company Bldg Main Street, Tonopah 5/20/1982 Water Company of Tonopah Burro and Brougher Avenues, Tonopah Building 5/20/1982 Wieland Brewery Building Mineral Street, Tonopah 5/20/1982

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9.4.1 Issues in Historic Preservation The practice of historic preservation faces considerable challenges as a result of rising land values, rapid growth and ever-expanding highway system. Proponents argue that the adaptive reuse of historic buildings promotes land and materials conservation. In addition, preservation of historic downtowns and neighborhoods promotes cultural heritage tourism, economic revitalization and community pride. However, the concern for considering the rights of private property owners in the historic designation process emerges. The following are the most current and pressing issues facing historic preservation today. 9.4.2 Adaptive Reuse Adaptive reuse is a process that adapts buildings for new uses while retaining the historic features that make the building unique. When the original use of a structure changes is no longer required or viable, the opportunity arises to change the primary function of the structure. As seen in the list of registered historical sites many have been adapted for other uses over time.

Adaptive reuse is seen by many as a key factor in land conservation. Another positive result is the economic value of rehabilitating and reusing older buildings, since the existing investment in the structure and servicing of a building reduces material and labor costs. In addition, state and/or federal tax incentives and grant funding may also be available. 9.4.3 Cultural Heritage Tourism Historic buildings can have a positive economic impact in redevelopment planning. These resources are inherently marketable elements of urban form that promote a community’s distinct identity. More than one-fourth of U.S. tourists visit cultural and historic sites every year. Historic downtowns perpetuate the character and ambience, creating an authentic experience for both residents and visitors that cannot be found elsewhere.

Since the 1970s, mounting evidence has shown that historic preservation can be a powerful community and economic development strategy. Evidence includes statistics compiled from annual surveys conducted by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and statewide Main Street programs, state-level tourism and economic impact studies, and studies that have analyzed the impact of specific actions such as historic designation, tax credits, and revolving loan funds. Among the findings: • Creation of local historic districts stabilizes, and often increases residential and commercial property values. • Increases in property values in historic districts are typically greater than increases in the community at large. • Historic building rehabilitation, which is more labor intensive and requires greater specialization and higher skills levels, creates more jobs and results in more local business than does new construction. • Heritage tourism provides substantial economic benefits. Tourists drawn by a communities (or regions) historic character typically stay longer and spend more during their visit than other tourists.

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• Historic rehabilitation encourages additional neighborhood investment and produces a high return for municipal dollars spent.

• Historic rehabilitation vs. new construction can result in a cost savings of 3 to 16percent. • Use of a County or town’s existing, historic building stock can support growth management policies by increasing the availability of centrally located housing. 9.5 Goal, Objectives, and Policies for Historic Properties Preservation HISTORIC PROPERTIES PRESERVATION GOAL-i: Promote the educational, cultural, economic, and general welfare of the public through the preservation, maintenance and protection of structures, sites and districts of significant historic, architectural, and archaeological interest within Nye County.

Objective 1 Promote the preservation, maintenance and protection of structures, sites and districts of historic interest within Nye County.

Policy A. Pursue all available state and federal grant funding pertaining to Historic Preservation.

Policy B. Promote the identification and preservation of signficant cultural resources within communities.

Policy C. Promote a stewardship program to oversee historic resources.

Objective 2 - Encourage community participation in the preservation planning process to achieve public understanding and support of preservation concepts and the value of cultural resources to the community.

Policy A. Promote public education of historic preservation by distribution of information through media releases, publications, and events.

Objective 3 - Promote and encourage the rehabilitation and reuse of historic resources.

Policy A. An inventory of buildings, structures, sites, objects and districts that are overfifty (50)years old will be consistently updated and maintained.

Policy B. Develop guidelines for reuse of historic structures, including the scope of modfIcations and the use and extent of exterior business signage.

Objective 4 - Promote and encourage the stability of designated historic neighborhoods, sites and landmarks by preserving their historical and architectural integrity.

Policy A. Promote design guidelines for historic preservation as developed by federal agencies such as the NPS.

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10.0 HOUSING PLAN

Pursuant to NRS 278.160, this topic concerns a ‘urvey of housing conditions and needs and plans and procedure for improvement of housing standards and the provision of adequate housing.”

The availability and quality of housing are growing issues in Nye County. The availability of affordable housing for senior citizens and low- and middle-income residents and the ability to obtain financing for entry level buyers are topics of particular concern. However, before a housing plan can be developed, Nye County must develop mechanisms to insure that housing is constructed in a manner that ensures quality and protects the health, safety and welfare of County residents. Therefore, it is anticipated that the Board will pursue the development of the Housing Element of the Comprehensive Plan after the county develops the ability to enforce the Uniform Building Code countywide.

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11.0 PUBLIC SERVICES AND FACILITIES PLAN

This topic involves “showinggeneral plans for sewage, drainage and utilities, and rights of way, easements andfacilities therefore, including any utilityprojects required to be reported pursuant to NRS278.160”.

11.1 Public Services Generally, County services are provided by a variety of general and special purpose districts and private corporations. The county is the largest service provider, administering many services in close cooperation with town boards. A variety of general improvement districts provide important public services such as water, sewer and fire protection at the local level. These districts act independently of both the county and town boards and are summarized as follows: • Nye County Water District • Beatty GID Services provided primarily by the county include flood/drainage control, and road rights-of-way It is anticipated that that the towns would address their own individual public service needs, with the assistance of the Board. The following sections provide an overview of the individual services currently provided by the county. 11.2 Water! Sewer Water is provided in the developed portions of Nye County by private utility companies or on an individual basis through private wells. Sanitary effluent is handled by community systems or by individual septic system. Considering the vast distances between communities in Nye County it is the policy of this plan that each community develops individual policy for planning of future needs. 11.3 Goals, Objectives, and Policies- Public Services and Facilities

PUBLIC SERVICES AND FACILITIES GOAL-i: Maintain adequate levels of county services and infrastructure as the county grows in population.

Objective 1 - That Nye County plan comprehensively for future public facility needs.

Policy A. Nye County should coordinate the provision of services withpopulation growth. Provision of water sanitary sewer, streets rights-of-ways, and other public services andfacilities should be concurrent with new development.

Policy B. Nye County should standardize the provision of public services and facilities county-wide and develop improvement districtsfor communityutilities.

Policy C. Nye County should identfy current capacity and short-term (5 years or less) needsfor water and sewer services.

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Policy D. Subsequent parcel maps shall comply with applicable subdivision improvements/requirements of Nye County.

Policy E. Subdivisions, Planned Unit Developments (PUD) and other master planned development shall be required to provide for adequate facilities. Such facilities shall be appropriately located to increase efficiency of operations and the provision of service.

Policy F. Development Agreements shall be used when coordination between developers/ landowners is necessary to adequately plan for the phasing and funding ofpublic services andfacilities.

Policy G. Nye County should develop a fiscal impact analysis and countywide CIP to address aging, inadequate, and unsafepublic services andfacilities.

PUBLIC SERVICES AND FACILITIES GOAL-2: Ensure that public 1services and facilities are accessible to all residents.

Objective 1 - That Nye County provide for the public service needs of its citizens.

Policy A. Nye County shall provide adequate public facilities for its residents.

PUBLIC SERVICES AND FACILITIES GOAL-3: Manage growth through logical and concurrent development of infrastructure and services

Objective 1 - Maintain adequate levels of county provided services and infrastructure as the county population grows.

Policy A. Nye County should pursue a wide range offunding sources to improve and modernize itspublic services and facilities.

Policy B. Require developers to provide a fiscal impact analysis as part of the development review process for subdivisions, PUDs and master planned communities.

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12.0 RECREATION PLAN

NRS 278.160 states, that this topic includes maps and text “showing a comprehensive system of recreation areas, including natural reservations, parks, parkways, reserved riverbank strips, beaches, play grounds and other recreation areas, including, when practicable, the locations and proposed development thereof”

A wide variety of recreation opportunities can be enjoyed on public lands within Nye County. Recreation activities include motorcycle and OHV riding, horseback riding, pack trips, mountain bicycling, camping, driving for pleasure, and hiking. Visitors experience wide open expanses which lack modem towns and facilities common to other parts of the west. Solitude and untrammeled environments are the rule, not the exception. Visitors need to be prepared for wide temperature changes, and alert for fire/fuels conditions and seasonal restrictions.

12.1 Activities There are many activities possible in the backcountry of Nye County. The following is a discussion about activities that are unique because of the climate, history and culture of Nye County.

Collecting! Harvesting Because of the geology and the type of plants and trees that are in Nye County it is common for those that enjoy roaming the desert to collect rocks (rockhounding), berries, nuts, and firewood. Reasonable amounts of these may be collected for noncommercial purposes. Collection or harvesting of big game animals and fishing are also popular activities in Nye County.

Rockhounding Gold and silver may be prospected for with hand tools including pans and metal detectors. Minerals such as gold, silver and opals found on mining claims belong to the claim holder. Mining claim records may be viewed at BLM and county recorder offices. Sluicing, dredging and commercial mining require permits. Recreational panning which does not involve mechanical equipment is permitted in wilderness and WSAs if it does not create surface disturbance or impair the environment. Saleable minerals, such as sand, gravel, cinders, topsoil and other common mineral materials must be purchased by prior arrangement with the BLM.

Gemstones and common rock specimens may be collected for private use on unclaimed sites. Commercial production of common rocks on an unclaimed site requires a permit. Only hobby collecting is allowed in wilderness and WSAs and must not involve surface disturbance. Collection of prehistoric tools and chips made of precious or semiprecious stones is not allowed.

Vertebrate fossils such as dinosaurs, mammals, fishes and reptiles, and uncommon invertebrate fossils may be collected only by trained researchers under BLM permit. Collected fossils remain the property of all Americans and are placed with museums or other public institutions after study. Common invertebrate fossils such as plants, mollusks, and trilobites may be collected for personal use in reasonable quantities, but may not be bartered or sold. Petrified wood may be collected up to 25 pounds plus one piece per person per day, with a maximum of 250 pounds per

February 23, 2011 Page 79 DRAFT - Nye County Comprehensive Plan person per year. Permits are required for pieces over 250 pounds. Petrified wood may not be traded, bartered or sold without permit.

Cave resources, including plant, animal and geologic features, are federally protected and may not be altered, damaged or removed.

Wood, Plants and Pine nuts Various species of trees are available for firewood with a personal use permit, which allows the cutting of up to 10 cords per family per year in specified areas for a nominal fee. Permits for woodcutting are required even on an individual’s mining or exploration claim. Collection of dead and down wood for immediate campfire use is allowed except for posted sites. Christmas tree permits are available for a nominal fee during the holiday season. Local BLM offices have the permits and tree cutting area maps.

Small amounts of plants, plant parts, seeds, flowers and berries may be collected for personal use in most areas. Cacti, yuccas, succulents and evergreen shrubs and trees are protected by the state. Species listed as threatened or endangered are protected by the federal government and may not be collected without permit. Collection of species listed as sensitive or candidates for threatened or endangered status should be avoided.

Pine nuts in amounts up to 25 pounds per person per year may be collected for noncommercial use. Although there are some designated commercial collecting areas, these are fully open to the public as well. Commercial harvesting plants or plant materials such as seeds, pine nuts, landscaping materials, firewood and timber requires a permit.

Animals Harvest of game and nongame animals, including fish, is regulated by the State and the FWS. Information for hunters, trappers, fishermen and collectors is available from the Nevada Division of Wildlife. Threatened and endangered species, including desert tortoise and some other reptiles, whether listed by federal government or by the state, may be collected only under permit from the FWS or state of Nevada. Lahontan cutthroat trout may be taken with a Nevada fishing license in permitted areas and seasons. Lists of protected species are available from the FWS, NDOW, and BLM offices.

Wild, free-roaming horses and burros may not be harassed, harmed, collected or sold under any circumstances. Their water sources are also protected. Wild horses and burros gathered under BLM supervision and prepared for private ownership may be adopted from the BLM.

Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Use Because of the history of Nye County there have developed over time a vast network of byways that allow visitors easy access to backcountry of the county. The transportation system available is presented in the following pages. The system affords the off-highway vehicle (all terrain vehicle and four wheel drive car! truck) users the opportunity to explore and visit the varied areas of alpine vistas to desert playas that are accessible to all.

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O}{Vs are a great way to combine America’s love of motor vehicles with the love of the outdoors. Mechanized vehicles are not allowed in Wilderness Areas. This includes mountain bikes and OHVs. OHV use is limited to existing or designated roads and trails, except in closed areas.

12.2 Destinations 12.2.1 Wildlife Management areas

Railroad Valley Railroad Valley is approximately 80 miles in length and up to 20 miles wide. Trending in a north-south direction, with some southern areas running southwest to northeast. The southern end of the valley begins near Gray Top Mountain (7,036 feet) and stretches north all the way to Mount Hamilton (10,745 feet).

A terrific birding place with 147 species listed with half considered common to the area, the Raifroad Valley in Northeastern Nye County is home to a Wildlife Management Area named the Railroad Valley WIVIA.Accessible from US-6 the area provides habitat for migratory and nesting waterfowl, non-game birds, mammals, and fishes.

Wayne E. Kirch Wildlife Management Area (WMA) The Wayne F. Kirch WMA is located in the White River Valley in northeastern Nye County. State Route 318 is the major access route to the area. Wayne Kirch is composed of a total of 14,815 acres, including five major reservoirs. Tule, Adams-McGill, Cold Springs, Dacey and Hay meadow reservoirs provide deep water habitat for fish and diving ducks.The various habitats of Wayne Kirch support an abundance of fish and wildlife that contribute significantly to the biological diversity of central Nevada. The edges of the reservoirs provide feeding areas for puddle ducks and shorebirds. The White River bisects the area and provides wetlands and deep water habitats. Uplands on Wayne Kirch include sagebrush, alkali desert scrub, annual grassland and desert wash. Sagebrush provides important habitat for mule deer, pronghorn, sage grouse and nongame species. The desert wash habitat is found in narrow corridors around intermittent streams carrying runoff from the Egan Range into the White River Valley. 12.2.2 Historical Sites

Beatty Named after “Old Man” Montillus (Montillion) Murray Beatty, a Civil War veteran and miner who bought a ranch along the Amargosa River just north of the future town and was the town’s first postmaster in 1905. This historical community was founded as the central supply hub of the “Bullfrog Mining District” and is located near the border of modern day Death Valley National Monument. Once served by three railroads that whistled through to the booming metropolis of Rhyolite, today the Beatty area is served by US- 95, Rhyolite is a ghost town and the railroad used to run 115 miles to the south through Las Vegas.

The town was laid out in 1904 or 1905 after Ernest Alexander “Bob” Montgomery, owner of the Montgomery Shoshone Mine near Rhyolite, decided to build the Montgomery Hotel in Beatty.

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Montgomery was drawn to the Bullfrog Mining District, because of a gold rush that began in 1904 in the Bullfrog Hills west of Beatty. As word of the discovery spread, thousands of hopeful prospectors and speculators rushed to the area and established camps and mining towns including Rhyolite, Bullfrog, Gold Center, Transvaal, Springdale, and others. When the gold rush ended and the mines closed a few years later, oniy Beatty, with ample water and a location in a transportation corridor, survived as a populated place.

Much of old Beatty can still be seen. The Exchange Club that George Greenwood built in 1906 still stands, old railroad beds are located on the edge of town, and old mines and mining Ghost Towns dot the area. Today there are only remains of the once booming town of Rhyolite, with ruins of a large operational gold mill, just four (4) miles west of Beatty.

Gabbs The community of Gabbs, located about 100 miles east of Carson City, used to be the only incorporated city in Nye County. Gabbs began as the early mining camp named for the mineral Brucite, a locally occurring element, before being founded around December of 1941 as a company town for a magnesium production plant. The town then became known as Gabbs in honor of a paleontologist who had studied fossils in the area. World War II increased the demand for magnesium, and the tiny community swelled with workers. Within a year of its formal establishment, Gabbs had a police force, jail and school district. By 1943, the cluster of settlements, which included North Gabbs, South Gabbs and Tent City, also enjoyed a library, city hail, parks, tennis courts and a steady stream of local newspapers. However, the plant soon closed its doors and the population of Gabbs dwindled accordingly. A succession of nearby plants followed in the years to come, and the majority of the work force in Gabbs is in the mining industry even today. Today, Gabbs is a quiet community, where visitors to the region will find Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park situated about 23 miles to the east.

Tonopah The community of Tonopah has a history that began about 1900 with the discovery of gold and silver rich ore by prospector Jim Butler when he went looking for a lost burro he owned. This event sparked one of the biggest mining booms in the state. The story is told that the burro had wandered off during the night and had sought shelter near a rock outcropping. When Butler discovered the animal the next morning, he picked up a rock to throw at the beast, but instead noticed the rock was unusually heavy. He had stumbled upon the second-richest silver strike in Nevada history. The ore eventually played out, abandoned mines can be found throughout the area.

The Tonopah Historic Mining Park, on the hillside above the town, offers a chance to explore the actual mines that created this mining juggernaut. Tonopah’s Central Nevada Museum contains displays describing not only local mining history but also other cultural and social aspects of the region. Many of the town’s buildings, such as the Mizpah Hotel and the Nye County Courthouse, were built in the early 20th century.

Rhyolite Shorty Harris and E. L. Cross, who were prospecting in the area in 1904, brought about the birth of Rhyolite. They found quartz all over a hill and the quartz was full of gold. Soon the rush was

February 23, 2011 Page 82 DRAFT - Nye County Comprehensive Plan on and several camps were set up including Bullfrog, the Amargosa and a settlement between them called Jumpertown. A townsite was laid out nearby and given the name Rhyolite from the silica-rich volcanic rock in the area. There were over 2000 claims covering everything in a 30 mile area around the Bullfrog district. The most promising was the Montgomery Shoshone mine, which prompted everyone to move to the Rhyolite townsite. The town immediately boomed with buildings springing up everywhere. One building was 3 stories tall and cost $90,000 to build. A stock exchange and Board of Trade were formed. The financial panic of 1907 took its toll on Rhyolite and was seen as the beginning of the end for the town. In the next few years mines started closing and banks failed.

Today visitors can find several remnants of Rhyolite’s glory days. Some of the walls of the 3 story bank building are still standing, as is part of the old jail. The train depot (privately owned) is one of the few complete buildings left in the town, as is the Bottle House. The Bottle House was restored by Paramount pictures in January, 1925.

Belmont From 1865 to 1890, the Belmont area produced about $15 million in gold and silver. For a time, Belmont, located about 45 miles north of Tonopah, was the Nye County seat. It seemed well on its way to permanence. However, once the ore dried up, the town began to fall into the familiar pattern of decay and neglect.

The visitor of today will find outside the main part of the town ruins of an abandoned mill site. Red brick walls and the remains of large smokestacks are all that is left of the Monitor Mill. Newer houses have been constructed around the older structures. Despite the new construction, there is still plenty of old Belmont to see. Main Street, now paved, is lined with aging storefronts and remains of what was once the town’s central business district. On one side, one can find the arched brick facade that probably was the town bank. Across the way are tumbledown pieces of the former Cosmopolitan Saloon.

The picturesque Belmont Courthouse, built in 1876, approximately 11 years after the town was founded served as the Nye County seat, has been partially restored by the Nevada Division of State Parks.

Berlin- Ichthyosaur State Monument The storied history of Shonisaurus began in 1928, when miners in the Shoshone Mountain town of Berlin noticed several strange skeletons eroding from a sandstone cliff. Many of the more ambitious miners explored the site themselves, collecting unusual looking bones and displaying them in their homes. Soon the site was brought to the attention of scientists, who determined that 37 ichthyosaur individuals died and were preserved near Berlin. However, it was not until some 30 years later that Charles Camp and Sam Welles of the University of California launched a full scale excavation. In addition to studying the fossils, Camp also urged that the site be preserved. His dreams were made reality in 1955, when the site was officially designed Ichthyosaur Paleontological State Monument. The mining claims of Berlin were later purchased in 1970, and the park was renamed Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park. Seven years later, the legislature of Nevada declared Shonisaurus popularis the official state fossil.

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The park offers a unique look into the life and times of the early 20th century mining town of Berlin. Berlin is preserved in a state of arrested decay. A trail through the town site tells the story of Berlin and its mine. Remains of Ichthyosaurs are on display at the park’s Fossil House. These unique fossils attract visitors from across the world. A short distance from the park, visitors can explore the historic towns of Toneand Grantsville.

Round Mountain People began moving into the Big Smoky Valley of Nye County in the 1860s. Ranching was then the primary support system for the towns, but as gold and silver discoveries were made it turned out to be the mines that brought people into the valley. Tn 1905, gold was discovered in Round Mountain, which is located on the west slope of the Toquima Range. Early in 1906 when more substantial amounts of high-grade ore were discovered the town of Round Mountain was established. The population rose to 400 by mid-year. By 1907 there were daily stages running between Round Mountain and Tonopah. By 1909 the town was host to hotels, stores, banks, a school, a library, and a hospital. Over the years, mining has continued to be the main industry in Round Mountain. 12.2.3 National Forests The Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest encompasses the northern portion of Nye County, all of Nevada and the far Eastern edge of California. The name “Humboldt” comes from the explorer John C. Fremont. He named the East Humboldt Mountain Range and the Humboldt River after German naturalist Baron Alexander von Humboldt. “Toiyabe” is an ancient Shoshone word meaning “mountain.”

The Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest offers a variety of recreational activities to the outdoor enthusiast. The Forest offers every visitor the chance to enjoy nature and be outdoors. Within its 6.3 million acres, the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest contains an estimated 80,000 to 100,000 prehistoric and historic archaeological sites. The various types of heritage resources range from the enigmatic squiggles and curlicues of prehistoric rock art, to the phenomenal mining towns of the 19th century, to Euro-American emigrant trails and roads.

A number of Native American tribes claim Humboldt-Toiyabe lands as part of their ancestral homelands. These include different groups of Southern Paiute, Northern Paiute, Western Shoshone, and Washoe Indians. All of these Native American groups are the descendants of the prehistoric peoples that once inhabited the vast landscape stretching east from the Sierra Nevada Mountains across the basin and range lands of Nevada. Evidence of both historic Native American camps and prehistoric occupations are abundant throughout the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. While there is some evidence for very early Native American occupations (ca. 13,000 years ago) on the Forest near Ely, Nevada, archaeologists believe that most prehistoric uses of the mountain ranges in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest occurred after about 4500 years ago.

Europeans began to travel through the Great Basin region as early as the 17th century. However, it was not until the American westward expansion of the 19th century, spurred on by the California Gold Rush, that full-scale settlement occurred. Lands within the Humboldt-Toiyabe

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National Forest are rich in historic sites, as represented by old emigrant roads, extensive mining towns, stagecoach stops, and logging-related sites, among others. 12.2.4 Refuges- Ash Meadows Ash Meadows is an unusual wetland region with springs, small reservoirs and streams at the lower end of Amargosa Valley, for most of the year a very hot and dry area at the edge of the Mojave Desert. It is just nine miles from Death Valley Junction, near the southeast entrance to Death Valley National Park and includes a small isolated section of the park - Devils Hole, a flooded cave entrance which provides the only remaining habitat for an endangered species of pupfish. The meadows are protected as a national wildlife refuge principally for the many types of birds found there, but they also support fish, lizards and various mammals, and provide the sole habitat for no fewer than 24 species. There are many springs, seeps, pools and lakes spread over the 22,000 acres.

12.2.5 Scenic Byways Scenic Byways are roads that offer unique combinations of recreation adventures and scenic attractions. Overlooks along the way provide photo opportunities for fabulous scenery, trees, wildflowers, and wildlife. Some these byways in Nye County are the Lunar Crater Loop and the “Extraterrestrial Highway”.

Lunar Crater Loop The Lunar Crater Volcanic Field, a zone of volcanism covering over 100 square miles at the southern end of the Pancake Range, comprised of cinder cones, outcrops of lava, elongated fissures, ash hills and, most visible, the 430 foot deep Lunar Crater - an impressive and rather unexpected site in an otherwise isolated, windswept location. The crater is designated a National Natural Landmark, one of six in Nevada, and is situated 75 miles east of Tonopah near the center of the state. It is geologically termed a ‘maar’,the name given to a shallow, broad crater formed by explosive eruptions close to ground level, usually caused by heating of subterranean water.

The Lunar Crater Back Country Byway passes by the crater, and the usual approach is from the north, starting from US 6. The junction is marked by a BLM signpost, from which it is a eight mile drive to the crater’s edge. The journey from the south is longer, lonelier and not signposted; this route begins from NV 375, also known as, “the Extraterrestrial Highway”. The first stage is 10 miles along the track, across the flat expanse of Railroad Valley, a typical Nevada basin with little to see apart from sagebrush, and alkali seeps. A left turn at the first cross roads leads into the low hills that line the valley, and enters the volcanic field after about 15 miles. Another left turn at the next junction leads to the crater and joins with the northern approach, where the road widens and improves.

The circular crater is large and impressive, surrounded by dark grey-brown rocks topped by layers of black ash in which grow small but brightly colored wildflowers such as the deep red Indian paintbrush. The viewpoint on the east rim is higher than the surroundings, allowing for far reaching views in most directions, of grass-covered buttes, ridges and lava flows.

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NV 375, The Extraterrestrial Highway A lonely 98 mile route linking one empty area of Nevada with another, NV 375 has become internationally known after being designated, in 1996, as ‘The Extraterrestrial Highway’ on account of the high incidence of UFOs reportedly seen in the skies above. The road is also notable because of its proximity to the vast NTTR and NNSS, where many top secret missiles, aircraft, and weaponry have been trialed since the 1950s, though the fame is due in particular to one small part of the base, the mysterious Area 51. 12.3 Goals, Objectives, and Policies- Recreation The following goals, objectives and policies have been developed to address Recreation.

RECREATION GOAL-i: Encourage the use and enjoyment of the many recreational opportunities available within Nye County.

Objective 1 — Encourage responsible use of the resources of the back country. be used responsibly.

Policy A. Manage backcountry travel and use to preserve cultural historical, archaeological, and paleontological resources.

Policy B. Workclosely with local state, tribal and other affectedparties and other resource users in OHVplanning.

Policy C. Establish and maintain an inventory of existing routes and trails as part of the land useplanning process.

Policy D. Promote educational programs for the responsible use ofpublic lands.

RECREATION GOAL -2: Conserve and protect scenic, historical and recreational resources.

Objective 1. Encourage recreational opportunities on public lands.

Policy A. Work to improve opportunities for unstructured recreation such as camping,fishing, hunting and OHVactivities in Nye County onpublic lands.

Objective 2. Identify and develop public lands for concentrated recreational use (e.g., campgrounds, historic sites, water recreational sites).

Policy A. Work with the Division of State Parks, to designate and plan future recreational sites within Nye County.

Policy B. Acquire public landsfor parks where economicallyfeasible for the county to maintain in order to retain popular recreation areas.

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13.0 REFERENCES

Amargosa Valley Area Plan Committee, 2009. “Amargosa Valley Area Plan.” Adopted by the Nye County Board of County Commissioners on September 23, 2009.

Born, J. David, Ronald P. Tymclo, and E. Casey Osborne, 1992. “Nevada Forest Resources.” Resource Bulletin INT-76. U.S. Forest Service, 71 pp.

EDEN, Inc., 2007. “Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for Nye County, Nevada.” A regional Economic Development Strategy prepared by EDEN, Inc., May 2007. 103 pp.

Nye County Code (NCC), Title 7 “Federal and State Managed Lands.” Chapter 7.01 Comprehensive Land Use and Management Plan for Federal and State Managed Lands Within Nye County.

Nye County Department of Planning, 2010. “Nye CountyPopulation Estimates Through the Third Quarter, 2010.” 10-040S)(L) Population dated October 13, 2010. 3 pp.

Penfield, Robin, Lisa Shevenell, Larry Garside, and Richard Zehner, 2010. “Map 161 - Nevada Geothermal Resources.” Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, Mackey School of Earth Sciences and Engineering, College of Science, University of Nevada, Reno. September, 2010.

Nye County, 2009. “Solid WasteManagement Plan Update — Nye CountyNevada.” Prepared by MaryEllen Giampaoli and BEC Environmental, Inc., September 2009. 40 pp.

Nye Couty, 2004. “Nye County Water Resources Plan.” Prepared by Thomas Buqo, August 2004. 136pp.

Nye County, 2003. “Pabrump Regional Planning District Master Plan Update.” Prepared by Tn-Core Engineering, Consensus Planning, Envioscientists, Ninyo & Moore, and Jummer, Kaempfer, Bonner & Renshaw. November 19, 2003. 132 pp.

U.S. Bureau of Land Management, 2001. “The Federal Land Policy and Management Act FLPMA) of 1976, As Amended.” Compiled by the U.S. Department of Interior Bureau of Land Management and Office of the Solicitor, Washington, D.C., October 2001. 78pp.

U.S. Census, 2011. “Nye County Nevada Quick Facts.” U.S. Census website http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/32/32023 .html accessed on 2/16/2011.

U.S. Department of Energy, 2010. “National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) Announces New Namefor Test Site.” News Release dated August 23, 2010.

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U.S. Department of Energy, 2009. “Central Nevada TestArea, Nevada — Fact Sheet.” Prepared by the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Legacy Management on 4/27/2009, 3 pp. Accessed on 2/18/2011 at URL http:www.LM.doe.gov/land/sites/nv/central/central.htm.

U.S. Geological Survey, 2008. “Assessment of Moderate- and High-Temperature Geothermal Resources of the U.S.” Fact Sheet 2008-3082. 4 pp.

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14.0 MAP FIGURES

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Nve CountyComorehensivePlan

Map 1. Unique Characteristics of Nyc County.

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NoesCniinlv Comorehensive Plan

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LI

Nevada National SeouritySIte

NYECOUNTY EXISTINGLANDUSE

Legend []Urrincorporated Towns MULTIPLE USE LANDUSE Multiple Use • Agricultural RECREATIONAND CONSERVATION Commercial Area of Critical Environmental Concern Industrial Designated Forest Mieng - Designated Wddemess Area Multiresidential National Park • Open Space National Wildlife Refuge Single Family State Wildlife Management Area Utilities • Wetlands Private - Undeveloped o 25 50 Federal Restricted Access Kilninetero Tribal Land • 25 so

Sources: Nye County Assessor database (as of 6/2010), Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, BLMGeocninmunicatsr.

Map 2. Existing Land Use.

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IloebdIdt.• — raybo -. •• ••• - —

I.- a •- I !‘l 0 •‘-‘f- - ‘ Humbctdt- •7 •• Tolyabe HilnboIdt - \ ,;ndMs,,ntuIn ) National rinoayL S Tolyabe • - ( Foresl ‘ / B.I,nnnt * -I ‘it/ ‘ s/ 4,ntt — 0

BLMLANDS SUITABLE FOR DISPOSAL

Legend

Public Land Suitable Ins Disposal Private Land State of Nevada Federally Managed Lands Bureau of Indian affairs Bureau of Land Management Department of Defense Department of Energy Forest Service (Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest) Fish and WildlifeService National Park Service (Death Valley National Park)

o 25 50 Kdos,e50s

25 50

Seamen Land management slatas (as of 8/10120101and BLMlands suitable for disposal (as of 518/20051from the US. BOreauof Land Management, Nevnda State Offices, Mappitig Seances.

Map 3. BLM Lands Suitable for Disposal in Nyc County.

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Nevada Test and Trndksg Range

NYECOUNTY Legend FUTURE LANDUSE

Unincorporated Towns MULTIPLEUSE MultipleUse EXEMPTAREAS Federal Restncted Access TownwithLand Use Plan • PTivate Land • Tribal Land RECREATION AND CONSERVATION National Park Desiiated Forest Designated Wilderness Area

Area of Critical Environmental Concern Li State Wildlife Management Area o 25 50 Wetlands • USes 5 25 tO

Sources: Wetland lakes and ponds are from the US EPA National Hydrography Dataset (NHDIPlus Walerbodies forthe NycCounty, Nevada Region. Wetlands are from the US Fish and WildlifeWetlands ivthe Conterminous US”dataset dated October 1.2010. Land management from BLMgeospahal data downloaded from URLhttp:/Iwww.blm.gov/vv/stien/prog’moreprogramslgeograpflicsciencesfgis/geospatiaidala.html

Map 4. Nyc CountyFuture Land Use.

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Area 1: Currait Creek I Smoky ValleyArea Ore appeceeeoe eloer Vaeay 122 0060oyaeey 134 Se:thCraekoalley 135 ioeeyetoy 1314 eq Seeky VelleyTeropes Flal 1310 05 Seeky Valley Nortlael Pail 1404 MeerorVelley Neehem Pea 1400 Moeteloelley Secelee Pee 150 lee yes Lake Voeey 101 PayellyeyateylEuleke all Nye) 1500 We ScalA Vetey Noldlee Fee lose We Seeky Vatey Caelral Pae 1550 Ieee Becky Vaeay SelaSee Pay 106 OalCreekValey Ill Coal Valley 172 Babel Valley 1730 eallload Vaeeysooeeem Pal 1730 Aet,oad Valey 0015157 PcI 207 WhOa eker Veaey 202 Pahrecoeeey Area 2: Tonapah Area HYDROGRAPHIC 141 eeleoee Valley 142 Moal Syleyoeley BASINS AND AREAS 140 Seleeallrml 141 Bce yat lee Ceolas rid Legend 141 Slerre Cater Balm 157 Keleclryeley Hydrographic 1560 Elegele Veley Seoorr Late Belly EEl Areas/ lrai Eeeyrerl Baler yepee,e Lake Valey 170 Peeoyer Veley Sara Sores Veeeyl l-IYDROGRAPHIC BASINS 42043: BeellylAeeapoea ValeyAree Central Region 144 Bee Olley P-I,. 146 Saoobaeie Flab Colorado Riyer Basin ISO Vista flul leo ylelllelee Flel Death Valley Basin oy elate’ Seee,ee Baby • 205 kleeiey Ouaey HamboW Rirer Basin 226 Reek Baby 2270 Boetyrlle Caeyoeljeckaeeylele • 2270 Fabyrele Ceeyee Baaaeal Mete 220 Sea Vaey Zn Cleler Flab 230 Aeeeryeee SeW 231 Gleeee.leCarryeb 0 25 50 Area a: Pallsenp Valley Area 162 Felreeeryelley 25 50 14 Sources: Hydrographic basins and area /sab-ayea tooasdaries for Nye County from the Neoada Olyisiosof Water Resources, 2006.

Map 5. Hydrographie Basins and Areas in Nyc County.

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Nye CountyComprehensive Plan

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NYECOUNTY GEOTHERMALRESOURCES Legend Hot Spring (>37 C) • Dry Hot SPnn Warm Spring (20 - 37CC) Dry Warm Spring

C, Hot Well (s37 C) Defunct Hot Well

Warm Well (20 - 37CC) Defunct Warm Well V Hot heat-flow well (ulOlVCIkm) • Fumarole V Warm heat-flow well (25- lOOCIkm) • Direct_Use Applications V Permitted Geothermal Well GeothermaL Clusters A Hot Shallow Survey Well (u3rC) TransmissionLines

Warm Shallow Survey Well (20 - 3rC) — High Voltage DC >55 Kilovolts

A

25 5°

25 50

Source> Alter Penfield et al., 2010. Nevada Geothermal Resources. Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology.

Map 6. Geothermal Resources

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NenodClaS andT,SSng name

11( ‘41i

NYECOUNTY NevadaNational FLOOD ZONES SonUritOSite

Legend Floodzones

A - Areas with 1% annual chance of flooding AE- Areas with 1% annual chance of flooding • AO - River or stream flood hazard areas 02% annual chance of flood hazard X - Area of miramual flood hazard LJ 0- Undetermined flood hazard rj Photointerpreted National Hydrographic Database Wash

0 25 no KUer,blero

25 50

Sources Flood zones from the Federal Emergency Management dgeatcy. 2009. DIGITALFLOODINSURANCERATEM.SPDATABASE, NYECOUNTY,NEVADA(UNINCORPORATEDAREAS). The primaryrisk dasslflcaflons used are the 1-percenl-annual-chance flood event, the 0.2-percent-atnvnal-chance flood event. and areas of rrdnunalflood risk.The DFIRMDatabase is derived from Flood ltnstxanceStudies (FISs), preniously pseliolted Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMS),food hazard analyses perlormed in support of the FISo and FIRMs,and new mapping data, where available. The FIBs situ FIRMsare published by the Federal Emergency Management Agerey (FEMAI.

Map 7. Flood Zones

February22, 2011 Page96 REVIEW DRAFT -2/23/2011

Nye County Comprehensive Plan

NYE COUNTY ROADS SYSTEM Legend

Nye County Roads Interstate — US Hwy — State Hwy Private Land • State of Nevada Federally Managed Lands • Bureau of Indian Affars Bureau of Land Management Department of Defense Department of Energy Forest Service (Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest) Fish and WildlifeService • Nafion Park Service (Death ‘lley National Park)

25 ss

25 so

Sssrces: NycCounty Roads SystemfromNycCountyPublicWorks(311712010).

Map 8. Nyc CountyRoads System.

February23, 2011 Page 97