Congresswoman Lee Holds Panel with “Free Solo” Rock Climber Alex Honnold on Supporting Outdoor Recreation
Bolstering Recreation and Promoting Public Lands
LAS VEGAS – Yesterday, Congresswoman Susie Lee (NV-03) held a panel discussion at a local rock-climbing gym with “Free Solo” rock climber Alex Honnold and outdoor recreation advocates to discuss promoting Nevada outdoor recreation and protecting public lands.
Approximately 80% of Nevada is publicly-owned land, and southern Nevada is home to amazing outdoor recreation opportunities, from the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area to the Avi Kwa Ame National Monument and Lake Mead National Recreation Area. This outdoor recreation contributes more than $6 billion to Nevada’s economy and supports roughly 54,000 jobs.
In order to support the small businesses and jobs in this sector, and to continue protecting public lands, Congresswoman Lee is a proud champion and original cosponsor of the bipartisan EXPLORE Act, which passed out of the U.S. House earlier this month. The legislative package would bolster outdoor recreation and promote public lands in Nevada, and it includes two of Congresswoman Lee’s bipartisan bills:
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The Biking On Long-Distance Trails (BOLT) Act would expand outdoor recreation opportunities by identifying potential long-distance bike trails and improving mapping resources for long-distance bikers on existing trails.
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The Protecting America’s Rock Climbing (PARC) Act would clarify Congress’ intent for climbing with fixed anchors to be an allowable and compatible activity in designated wilderness areas.
“I try to start every day in Nevada with a hike or bike through our beautiful public lands, so I know firsthand how important it is to strike a balance between preserving and enjoying these resources,” said Congresswoman Lee. “The EXPLORE Act does exactly that by bolstering outdoor recreation, supporting small businesses, and promoting sustainable public land use for all. It was great to join so many local outdoor advocates in discussing how we can bring visitors to Nevada not just for the Strip, but for our incredible outdoor opportunities.”
Congresswoman Lee was joined by Alex Honnold, the Nevada Outdoor Business Coalition, local small business owners in the outdoor recreation industry, recreationalists, and public land managers.
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