NDCNR protects critically imperiled Nevada species

Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources protects critically imperiled Nevada species 

160 acres of vital habitat in White Pine County allocated to protect the Monte Neva Paintbrush

Carson City, Nev. – Today, the Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (NDCNR) has taken decisive action to safeguard one of Nevada's most critically imperiled species, the Monte Neva Paintbrush (Castilleja salsuginosa), an exceedingly rare flowering plant exclusive to Nevada's hot spring environments. In a collaborative effort with federal, state, and nonprofit partners, NDCNR is working diligently to prevent the species from the looming threat of extinction.

Designated as critically imperiled and listed as at risk of extinction by the State of Nevada, the Monte Neva Paintbrush stands as a poignant symbol of Nevada's fragile biodiversity. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, NDCNR, through its Conserve Nevada Program, has joined forces with the Nevada Division of Forestry, Nevada Division of State Lands, Nevada Division of Natural Heritage, Nevada State Parks, and other stakeholders to secure 160 acres of vital habitat in White Pine County. Remarkably, this habitat encompasses approximately 90% of the known Monte Neva Paintbrush population.

This concerted effort protects the Monte Neva Paintbrush from extinction while mitigating the risk of federal listing. The collaboration underscores the importance of proactive conservation measures in preserving Nevada's unique ecological heritage.

Director of NDCNR, James Settelmeyer, remarked, "For more than two decades, the Conserve Nevada Program has been a cornerstone in the preservation and restoration of Nevada's natural and cultural resources. Initiatives like this underscore our commitment to creating fire-resilient landscapes, safeguarding rivers and wetlands, preserving historic and cultural treasures, and fostering outdoor recreation opportunities for all Nevadans. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our partners and the public for their unwavering support of the Conserve Nevada Program, which plays a pivotal role in cultivating a healthy and vibrant Nevada for generations to come."

Conserve Nevada supports the conservation and enhancement of Nevada’s natural, cultural, and recreational resources through collaboration and funding awards to public and nonprofit partners. Since 2002 Conserve Nevada has supported over 200 projects statewide, resulting in the construction of over 100 miles of trail, conservation of over 53,400 acres of habitat and recreation area. The program has leveraged state funding with other public and private sources to conserve, protect, and enhance Nevada's natural and cultural resources. For further information about the Conserve Nevada Program, please visit ConserveNevada.nv.gov and view this informative video clip. Stay updated by following @NevDCNR on Facebook and Instagram, and join the conversation using #ConserveNevada.

 

Thank you to these NDCNR divisions for their support of this project

 

The Nevada Division of Forestry is committed to protecting and enhancing Nevada’s ecosystems and communities through natural resource stewardship and wildfire management. Through public and private partnerships, NDF manages healthy and resilient landscapes in urban, rural, and wildland areas across Nevada that sustain necessary water supplies, local economies, human health, and wildlife habitat for present and future generations of Nevadans.

 

 

The Nevada Division of State Lands upholds Nevada’s conservation values through land stewardship, environmental improvement, and responsible land-use planning. NDSL holds title to land for the State of Nevada. The division works collaboratively with state agencies and partners to secure land in support of their missions, and then assigns land to state agencies for day-to-day management. NDSL has assigned more than 300,000 acres of land to sister state agencies, about 1% of Nevada’s land area, while also holding title to School Trust Lands and the bed and banks of the State’s navigable waters.

 

 

The Nevada Division of Natural Heritage maintains biodiversity data for Nevada’s at-risk plants, animals, and ecological communities to support informed land use planning and conservation planning decisions and to help prevent species from becoming threatened or endangered. As a non-regulatory, independent resource for scientifically objective data, environmental review, and technical assistance and expertise, the agency supports the needs of diverse planning, conservation management, research, education, and economic development activities in Nevada.

 

 

The Nevada Division of State Parks oversees a network of 27 state parks across Nevada, ensuring their management, protection, and operation. These parks offer unparalleled landscapes of scenic beauty, recreational opportunities, scientific exploration, cultural significance, and historical value. Committed to interpretation, inspiration, and education, the agency enlightens visitors about the diverse natural, cultural, and recreational treasures found within the state park system.