Lt. Cmdr. Darin Russell/U.S. Navy via Associated Press
In this Sept. 3, 2015, file photo provided by the U.S. Navy, F-35C Lightning IIs, attached to the Grim Reapers of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 101, and F/A-18E/F Super Hornets attached to the Naval Aviation Warfighter Development Center (NAWDC) fly over Naval Air Station Fallon’s (NASF) Range Training Complex near Fallon.
Friday, Dec. 22, 2023 | 2 a.m.
• 10th in a series
Nevada is a sprawling state with most of its people in two population centers. But beyond the reaches of Las Vegas and Reno is a land filled with attractions and history. Some of them, of course, might not be familiar to most Nevadans. The Sun has reached out to mayors and representatives of the Silver State’s 19 cities, giving them a platform in our pages to talk about their area’s history and attractions and to describe what makes them special and what challenges they face.
Today, we present a Q+A with Fallon Mayor Ken Tedford.
Give us a history lesson. What makes your jurisdiction unique?
Fallon was incorporated in 1908, though its origins as a settlement near the Carson River go back to the Forty-Niners’ route to the gold fields of California. Some of these westward travelers decided to settle our valley, forming ranches and, by the late 1890s, a store and post office.
An irrigation district operates 380 miles of canals delivering water to farms throughout the valley near Fallon. From this abundance of water, Fallon has been called the “Oasis of Nevada” since 1948.
Following the federal government’s Reclamation Act of 1902, the valley around Fallon became one the of the first conservation projects of the newly formed Bureau of Reclamation. The bureau project ultimately led to the building of Derby and Lahontan Dams and an irrigation district which today operates 380 miles of canals delivering water to farms throughout the valley. From this abundance of water, Fallon has been called the “Oasis of Nevada” since 1948.
Located in the center of this green valley, Fallon boasts multiple parks with a variety of recreation opportunities, a walkable historic downtown and a vibrant community.
What kind of attractions and events do you have that people may be interested in visiting?
Our events really showcase the city’s commitment to providing the community with great experiences. We offer a Christmas tree-lighting ceremony that brings thousands to our downtown corridor every December. This event includes an open house in City Hall, food and events for the community, and culminates with an incredible fireworks display. This year, the holiday festivities also include an outdoor ice rink we call Fallon on Ice, available to enjoy through the New Year holiday.
In August, the city sponsors a Community Reunion during which we celebrate the return of all Fallon alumni. The event includes a classic car show and art galleries, and ends with an outdoor concert and firework show at our classic Oats Park Pavilion.
Fallon is proud to be the home of the Oats Park Art Center and the Historic Fallon Theater, both of which offer events and performances throughout the year.
What new development opening in 2024 has you excited? Why?
While growth has slowed regionally, the local economy remains strong. In 2023, the city accomplished a number of long-term goals: significant road improvements as well as installation of a splash pad and pickleball courts, among others. For 2024, the city looks to continue its investment in quality of life opportunities by focusing on additional park and infrastructure improvements.
What is the biggest challenge facing your jurisdiction?
Our biggest challenge is housing. Simply put, we don’t have enough to meet the needs of people who want to live and work in Fallon. Over the past two years, the city saw the development of 182 new homes. This represents 7% growth in housing within the city. However, rental and sale availability remains significantly beneath the demand for them.
What industry is most important to your town’s economy? What about diversifying?
Agriculture and the Navy base constitute our economic base. Fallon is home to the Naval Air Station Fallon — the Navy’s “Top Gun” training facility. The base employs over 3,000 active-duty personnel, civilian employees and Department of Defense contractors. The base is in the midst of an expansion project to ensure its ability to train current and future pilots.
Fallon’s agriculture industry produces a variety of products that are marketed throughout the region. From milk and beef products to our famous “Hearts of Gold” cantaloupes, Fallon feeds our state and our nation. Fallon is also becoming a must-visit town in Northern Nevada, with visitors flocking to popular events such as the Cantaloupe Festival & Country Fair, Christmas tree lighting, and arts and culture offerings.
What opportunity does your community provide for public education? What challenges does it face?
Fallon’s students are served by the Churchill County School District. It teaches about 3,360 students across six campuses in Fallon. The city is also home to Oasis Academy, which offers a K-12 charter school option. The city prioritizes supporting all of our educational partners, students and employees.
What challenges do your residents face with health care availability and cost?
Fallon is served by Banner Churchill Community Hospital, which provides quality care.
Nevadans have lived with historic drought for the past two decades. What initiatives are in place to save the valuable commodity of water?
While Fallon is the oasis of Nevada and has been historically blessed with an abundance of water, the city recognizes the need for long-term planning to ensure the sustainability of our water resources. The city has a 100% metered water system which allowed it to work with the state engineer’s office to properly allocate its water rights across its jurisdiction. This system allows city staff to be aware of water use and trends, as well as identify problems within its water delivery system.
What issues are facing your community regarding roads and transportation?
Building and maintaining our roads is a constant priority. In recent years, we have allocated additional resources toward road maintenance. These funds have allowed us to address significant road improvements as well as improve pedestrian accessibility to homes and businesses.
How can public safety be enhanced in your community?
Fallon is proud of its police department, which really focuses on citizen service. Our officers are exemplars of what it means to protect and serve the public.
What is one thing you wish the rest of the state knew about your jurisdiction?
Fallon is an exceptional place to live and visit. We offer a high quality of life, year-round recreation and events. Our citizens and visitors enjoy an open, small-town environment with opportunities that are unparalleled for a community of this size.
