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

WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Susie Lee (NV-03), Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-41), Congresswoman Grace Napolitano (CA-31) and colleagues introduced the bipartisan Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program Amendment Act, which would ensure that state contributions to conservation projects in the Lower Colorado River Basin are able to 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 for new projects, state-funded contributions currently sit in accounts that do not earn interest. This effectively costs the LCR MSCP at least $2 million annually that 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 investments to protect endangered species and keep wildlife off the endangered list. 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.” 

“As we continue to face unpredictable drought cycles in Southern California and across the Lower Colorado Region, every dollar invested into protecting our precious habitats and resources is critical,” said Rep. Napolitano. “The successes of the LCR MSCP will be multiplied by allowing its funds to earn interest, as many funds within the Bureau of Reclamation already do, further benefiting our taxpayers, agencies, and the environment. I am proud to join Congresswoman Lee and Congressman Calvert in introducing this important bill for the well-being of our communities, ecosystem, and economy.” 

“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 Rep. Calvert. “This bill is a common-sense step that allows excess funds in the LCR MSCP to earn interest and maintain their effectiveness. I’m thankful for the support of California water agencies, as well as Senator Padilla, and my House colleagues in this effort.”

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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