Governor Joe Lombardo has reaffirmed Nevada's commitment to the Shared Stewardship Agreement, a collaborative initiative aimed at protecting and restoring landscapes while mitigating wildfire risks. The ceremony took place at the BLM Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.
The agreement involves multiple state and federal agencies working together to safeguard communities, economies, infrastructure, and wildlife by fostering healthier landscapes resilient to ecological threats like wildfires and drought. This renewal sets new goals for treating or restoring more acres annually and emphasizes collaboration across various landscapes.
"Wildfires don’t stop at jurisdictional boundaries, and neither does Nevada’s shared effort to create fire-resilient landscapes and communities," stated Governor Lombardo. He expressed gratitude towards state and federal partners for their cooperative efforts in land stewardship.
Initially signed in 2019, the agreement is a joint effort involving the Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, USDA Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, among others. It aims to identify priorities for ecosystem restoration and wildfire risk reduction. The Natural Resources Conservation Service joined in 2020.
Significant projects under this agreement have been accomplished across Nevada. In areas like Paradise north of Winnemucca, efforts are underway to eradicate invasive grasses that fuel wildfires. In Elko, fuel breaks are being created to protect communities from fires.
James Settelmeyer from the Nevada Department of Conservation emphasized dedication to protecting landscapes from wildfire threats through targeted actions. Kacey KC highlighted the importance of science-based land management practices against increasing ecological threats.
J.J. Goicoechea stressed the importance of reducing wildfire risks through collaborative efforts like noxious weed control and rangeland restoration. Alan Jenne noted the department's role in implementing crucial land management actions for wildlife habitats.
Representatives from federal agencies also underscored the necessity of cross-jurisdictional cooperation in managing vegetation to combat severe wildfires. Mary Farnsworth remarked on expanding collaborations with other agencies as essential for landscape protection.
Paul Souza highlighted investments made towards restoring native habitats using funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law as part of these cooperative efforts. Heidi Ramsey expressed delight at joining as a signatory partner for future successes under this renewed commitment.
For more information about the Nevada Shared Stewardship Agreement, visit the Nevada Division of Forestry website.