Carson City authorizes application for state conservation grant to buy 81.55 acres and water rights in Ash Canyon

The Carson City Board of Supervisors unanimously authorized staff to apply for a Conserve Nevada grant to acquire an 81.55‑acre parcel in Ash Canyon and its associated water rights.

Lindsay Boyer, the city's open‑space manager, said the parcel (Parcel 007091‑28) is surrounded by public lands and contains freshwater emergent wetlands, critical wildlife habitat and migration corridors. Boyer emphasized the parcel includes portions of Ash Creek, which she described as one of the primary sources of Carson City's drinking water, and said acquiring the land would prevent checkerboarding of private and public lands, formally protect the popular creek trail and secure water rights as part of the transaction. Boyer noted the property is not currently on the open market and that the staff report uses an estimated value; an appraisal would determine final price if the city proceeds.

Boyer said the city could apply to Conserva Nevada; applications are due March 6 and awards typically arrive within four to six months in successful rounds. She noted strong community support, citing 55 written comments in favor. A member of the public, Johanna Foster (Muscle Powered), urged the board to approve the funding and said keeping Ash Creek undeveloped protects water quality, habitat and the recreation experience. Supervisor Schutte moved to authorize staff to apply for the Conserve Nevada grant, authorize the mayor to accept the grant if awarded, and approve Resolution 2026‑R‑6; the motion carried unanimously.