U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto recently visited the Desert Research Institute (DRI) in Reno to emphasize the importance of over $9.2 million in investments she helped secure through bipartisan legislation. The funding is aimed at supporting DRI's research projects, which are vital for advancing Nevada’s clean energy sector, environmental protection, and STEM education.
During her visit, Senator Cortez Masto expressed her enthusiasm about DRI's work: “I was thrilled to join the Desert Research Institute today to see how their work is helping ensure Nevada continues lead the way in the fight to combat climate change and drive a sustainable future.” She further added that the funds will assist in developing lithium resources and preparing students for future job markets, ultimately promoting clean-energy industries, creating well-paying jobs, and maintaining public health.
DRI President Kumud Acharya acknowledged the senator’s support: “We appreciate Senator Cortez Masto’s continued support of important environmental research and K-12 STEM education. DRI researchers are conducting science that matters now, and this funding to research environmental pollutants and lithium resource mapping are critical environmental topics important to Nevadans and beyond.”
The secured funds will back several community projects spearheaded by DRI.