H.R. 2317: Northern Nevada Economic Development and Conservation Act of 2025

The Northern Nevada Economic Development and Conservation Act of 2025 is a legislative proposal focused on land management, conservation, and economic development in northern Nevada. The main objectives of the bill include:

Land Transfer and Sale

The bill outlines plans to transfer and sell federal lands in northern Nevada to support economic development initiatives. It aims to streamline the process for these transactions, which could facilitate new business activities and growth in the region.

Conservation Efforts

In conjunction with the development objectives, the bill places significant emphasis on conservation. It designates certain areas as wilderness, which means that these lands will be protected from mining, mineral leasing, and other forms of public entry that could disrupt the environment. The management of these wilderness areas will be conducted in accordance with the Wilderness Act, which allows for limited activities such as livestock grazing while ensuring that state jurisdiction over wildlife management is maintained.

Land Management and Exchange

The Secretary of the Interior is tasked with seeking land exchanges to consolidate federal land holdings, aiming to retain higher-value natural resource areas. This includes conducting mass appraisals of eligible lands every five years to assess their value for sale or exchange. There will be some exclusions made for ecological reasons to protect significant environmental areas from being sold.

New Wilderness Areas

The bill proposes the establishment of new wilderness areas, which will enhance conservation and protect natural habitats. These areas will contribute to the preservation of regional biodiversity and provide outdoor recreational opportunities.

Local Land Conveyances

To further support local economic and environmental goals, the legislation also includes provisions for land conveyances to local entities. This means that local governments or organizations can receive land to manage and develop according to their needs, promoting community-driven initiatives.

Greenlink West Project

Additionally, the bill encompasses the Greenlink West Project, which involves preparing an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). This project may lead to amendments in management plans across several counties in Nevada. The Bureau of Land Management, under the authority of the Secretary of the Interior, will oversee rights-of-way agreements, particularly for the use of the Walker Lake Parcel if it is taken into trust for the Walker River Paiute Tribe. This inclusion aims to honor tribal interests and promote collaboration between federal and tribal entities regarding land use and management.

Summary of the Bill’s Sections

• Land Transfer and Sale: Facilitates selling federal lands for economic development.
• Conservation: Protects designated wilderness areas from mining and other intrusions.
• Land Exchanges: Consolidates federal land ownership and appraises land values periodically.
• New Wilderness Areas: Establishes new protected wilderness zones.
• Local Conveyances: Allows local entities to receive federal lands.
• Greenlink West Project: Addresses environmental planning and tribal land management agreements.

Relevant Companies

• NEE: NextEra Energy, involved in renewable energy projects, could be impacted by changes in land use for energy development.
• AVY: Avery Dennison Corporation, which may engage with land resources for sustainable materials and packaging, could feel indirect effects from land management policies.