Congresswoman Lee Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Maximize Nevada’s Wildlife Conservation Investments on Lower Colorado River

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Susie Lee (NV-03) and Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-41) announced the introduction of the bipartisan Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program Amendment Act to ensure that state contributions to conservation projects in the Lower Colorado River Basin can earn interest and grow before being allocated.

Nevada — along with California, Arizona, and the federal government — contributes funds to the Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program (LCR MSCP), which works to protect species currently listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and reduce the likelihood of additional species listings. But while the program prepares new projects, state-funded contributions currently sit in accounts that do not earn interest, which could be used to fund future projects.  

The Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program Amendment Act addresses these lost returns by establishing an interest-bearing account for state contributions to the LCR MSCP, ensuring that Nevada taxpayers get the most for their investment in conservation projects in the Lower Colorado River Basin. 

“As one of the most biodiverse places in the country, Nevada helps lead state and federal efforts to protect endangered species. But government red tape is getting in the way of maximizing Nevada taxpayer dollars that invest in wildlife conservation in the Lower Colorado River Basin,” said Congresswoman Lee. “I’m championing bipartisan legislation to ensure that these funds earn interest and grow before being used for conservation projects. Smart use of Nevadans’ tax dollars should be the norm.” 

“Providing additional resources for the Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program at no cost to taxpayers will support one of our most important natural resources in the Southwest,” said Congressman Calvert. “This bill is a common-sense step that allows excess funds in the LCR MSCP to earn interest and maintain their effectiveness.”

The Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program Amendment Act has been endorsed by the Colorado River Commission of Nevada, the Southern Nevada Water Authority, and the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California. 

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