Frequently Asked Questions

Following are some facts about the environmental impacts and other issues related to in-state resources projects.

Environmental Impacts

Will this turn rural Nevada into a desert wasteland?
No. Rural communities, ranchers and wildlife are protected by Nevada water law and federal environmental law. The Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA) is proposing to draw upon unused water that naturally recharges, just like farmers and eastern Nevada residents.

Water Rights

Isn't Southern Nevada trying to take away White Pine County's water?
No. According to Nevada Water law, Nevada's groundwater belongs to all citizens of Nevada and unused water can be transferred anywhere in the state it is needed as long as it is for beneficial use. The water SNWA has applied for is unused water. Nevada's water law, which is among the strictest in the West, requires that transfers occur in a way to protect existing water rights holders from adverse effects. Many Nevada communities, including Carson City, Wendover and Tonopah, rely upon water drawn from other basins.

Conservation

Can't Southern Nevada conserve more water instead of developing this project in rural Nevada?
While conservation will always be a focus of SNWA and its member agencies, these projects are critical to providing the diversity needed to insulate Southern Nevada's residents and economy against the drought-susceptible Colorado River, as well as meet future demand.

Desalination

Why can't we just treat ocean water and use it to solve our needs?
While the ocean is a promising water resource for the future, desalination is not a viable option right now. The most likely scenario would have SNWA pay for a desalination plant and trade for Colorado River water with California. This option does not reduce our dependence on the drought-susceptible Colorado River. The amount of energy needed to operate a desalination plant and the disposal of the saltwater waste pose additional challenges that make desalination not feasible.