Nevada Environmental Justice Coalition supports Assembly Bill 104 to protect groundwater

During a recent Senate Committee on Natural Resources meeting, a significant discussion centered around Assembly Bill 104, which aims to address the critical issue of groundwater depletion in Nevada. Hector Arriola, a policy fellow with the Nevada Environmental Justice Coalition, voiced strong support for the bill, highlighting the urgent need to protect the state's water supply and ecosystem.

Arriola emphasized that nearly 20% of Nevada's hydrographic areas are currently over-pumped, meaning water is being withdrawn faster than it can be naturally replenished. He pointed out that if all permanent water rights were utilized, many basins could potentially run dry, which would have dire consequences for the environment, agriculture, and Native tribes. With extreme heat and drought conditions becoming more prevalent, he described Assembly Bill 104 as a proactive solution to safeguard Nevada's water resources.

The committee did not receive any opposition testimony during the meeting, indicating a consensus on the importance of addressing groundwater issues. This lack of dissent suggests that the bill may move forward without significant hurdles.

As Nevada continues to grapple with water scarcity, the discussions surrounding Assembly Bill 104 reflect a growing recognition of the need for sustainable water management practices. The outcomes of this bill could have lasting implications for the state's residents, farmers, and ecosystems, reinforcing the importance of legislative action in the face of environmental challenges.