Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Lake Mead National Recreation Area wants to protect and potentially expand back-country recreation in two areas of the park – Government Wash and the Overton Arm. However, it faces a critical issue with illegal roads compromising safety and damaging natural and cultural resources. Unauthorized vehicle use has led to the destruction of areas that uniquely support endangered species and the destruction of archaeological sites. Such activities compromise the ecological balance and degrade the stories these lands tell about the people from ancient times to the present, significantly impacting Tribal Nations whose ancestral homelands span the park. The SNPMLA Round 20 Conservation project “Managing Illegal Roads to Protect Recreation, Safety, and Resources: Phase 1” aims to expand official back-country access responsibly while protecting these sensitive areas.

Creating illegal roads poses significant safety hazards and limits recreational opportunities for everyone. Continued damage could force difficult decisions, including closing popular areas, restricting access, and diminishing the recreational experience. Your involvement is crucial in shaping how we balance expanding access with protecting the integrity and safety of the park.