Water Resource Hub
This page contains resources for enhancing your understanding of Nevada’s watersheds.
Nevada’s Nonpoint Source Management Plan
Bureau of Water Quality Planning
Nonpoint source (NPS) water pollution occurs when rain, snowmelt, and irrigation water flows over-developed or disturbed land, carrying with it contaminants such as oil, sediment, pesticides, bacteria, and nutrients. This contaminated water makes its way into Nevada’s waterways either directly or through storm drains.
Groundwater in the Colorado River Basin
Environmental Defense Fund
The Colorado River Basin stretches through two countries, the United States and Mexico, and is an important water supply source for humans and nature. In the U.S., the hydrologic basin includes parts of Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming. Learn the physical and social context of the Colorado River Basin states.
EPA Geospatial Applications
US Environmental Protection Agency
EPA has developed many applications that allow users to explore and interact with geospatial data. Their page highlights some of the flagship geospatial web applications but these represent only a fraction of the total. Learn about the Environment in your Neighborhood.
Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems
Nevada Department of Wildlife
Groundwater-dependent ecosystems (GDEs) are natural communities including plants, animals, and microbes that rely on groundwater for all or part of their water needs. This story map provides information about what groundwater-dependent ecosystems (GDEs) are, where they are in Nevada, and why they are important.
Las Vegas Regional Water Quality Plan
Southern Nevada Water Authority
Southern Nevada water and wastewater agencies formed the Las Vegas Valley Watershed Advisory Committee (LVVWAC) in 2007 to cooperatively address laws that govern water management practices and to protect the valley’s watershed. Read the LVVWAC’s Regional Water Quality Plan to learn the role of local agencies in protecting the Las Vegas watershed resources.
Drought & Conservation Measures
Las Vegas Valley Water District
As a result of shortage conditions on the Colorado River, the federal government announced a tier two water reduction in August 2022, limiting the amount of water Southern Nevada will be allowed to withdraw from Lake Mead beginning in January 2023. Learn how you can safeguard our community’s drinking water supply.
