Keep lands public and not corporate

By Jim Stanger, Las Vegas

Thursday, June 4, 2015 | 2 a.m.

There’s a debate raging in Nevada: the fate of our pubic lands. These lands belong to all of us ... you and me. Proponents of selling them off to large corporate interests, such as Rep. Cresent Hardy, have suggested truly limiting people’s access. They can’t claim to want to protect access, then turn around and sell off our lands. The Basin and Range National Monument would ensure everyday access to this awe-inspiring area for all Nevadans. Basin and Range means freedom — freedom to roam and explore, to breathe clean air and sleep under the stars, to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

No matter how our public lands debate is settled, that freedom to experience vast, peaceful open spaces must remain uninhibited by corporate interests that care only for profits.

Basin and Range is part botanical garden, part cultural history museum, part modern art and escape from urban life. While seemingly vast in size to people, this area is just a minuscule percentage of Nevada’s public lands. I’ve been there, and it’s quintessential rural Nevada, rich in Native American rock art with peaceful views unscarred by industry. With the increased recognition of these resources by means of a national monument designation, Nye and Lincoln counties would enhance their economic futures by capitalizing on the outdoor recreational opportunities. Mineral resources run out; people’s need to explore and have fun never will.

We need these places industry cannot touch. I support protection of Basin and Range National Monument.