Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) today joined Patagonia and Nevada conservation advocates in an event focused on the importance of civic activism to protect our public lands. She spoke about the role that public lands play in Nevada’s outdoor economy and the need for conservation efforts to preserve these beautiful natural places for generations to come.
“Nevada’s public lands belong to all of us. They are home to ancient Native American artifacts, unique animal and plant species, and world-class rock climbing routes. They are also the backbone of our state’s outdoor economy, which generates nearly $13 billion in consumer spending each year. I’ve had the chance to hike and camp in our state’s beautiful canyons and pristine alpine forests, and I want every young person in Nevada to have that same opportunity. That is why I’m fighting to protect public lands for generations to come.”
BACKGROUND:
In her remarks, Cortez Masto thanked Patagonia for their support for conservation efforts and their campaign to protect public lands. She also highlighted their pledge to donate at least 1% of sales or 10% of profits—whichever is more—to support community-based environmental groups.
Cortez Masto also spoke about her advocacy against the proposed rollbacks to two of Nevada’s national monuments, Gold Butte and Basin and Range, and discussed her support for the ANTIQUITIES Act of 2018, a bill to make it illegal for a President to rescind a national monument designation without the approval of Congress.
Senator Cortez Masto’s remarks were followed a panel discussion with environmental policy experts Neil Kornze, former Director of the Bureau of Land Management, Shaaron Netherton, Executive Director of Friends of Nevada Wilderness, and Norman Harry, Former Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribal Chairman. The panel discussion focused on how members of the public can take action to become a stronger public lands activist.
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