DENVER – Securing national monument designation for the Avi Kwa Ame region in southern Nevada will connect crucial wildlife migration pathways, preserve ancient cultural and Indigenous sites, and benefit rural communities. The National Wildlife Federation applauded the Bureau of Land Management for meeting with local stakeholders to discuss the importance of conserving 450,000 acres of public land.

“Hunters, outdoor recreationists, conservationists, and Indigenous and local community leaders have been calling for additional protections for Avi Kwa Ame, which is considered sacred by many Tribes. Designating this land as a national monument will ensure that bighorn sheep, mule deer, and other wildlife species will be able to migrate freely in search of water, food and shelter,” said David Willms, senior director of Western wildlife and conservation at the National Wildlife Federation. “The protections will also safeguard Indigenous sites and expand opportunities for outdoor recreation that will benefit neighboring communities.”

“The Avi Kwa Ame area plays an important role in preventing Nevada's desert big game habitat from fragmentation. A national monument designation will secure safe passage of bighorn sheep, mule deer, and other wildlife species. Additional protections will also guarantee that sporting organizations will have continued access to identify, build, and maintain water guzzlers for game animals which is critical for their survival,” said Russell Kuhlman, executive director of the Nevada Wildlife Federation. “Conserving and restoring wildlife habitat in Avi Kwa Ame will benefit Nevada’s wildlife and sporting heritage for generations to come.” 

Nearly 20,000 members of the National Wildlife Federation have signed a petition urging the President to designate Avi Kwa Ame as a national monument. If you would like to add your voice, you can do so here.