NV Energy has requested approval of a right-of-way to construct, operate and maintain a system of transmission facilities and associated infrastructure that would transmit electricity between Northern Nevada and the Harry Allen Substation in Clark County – known as the Greenlink West. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has issued its draft Environmental Impact Study (EIS) recommending that eleven 180-ft power poles be placed within the boundaries of the Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument (TUSK) for a 1 1/2 mile length. While Protectors recognizes the need to develop clean energy resources, it’s important that we protect important places while planning for a renewable future.
We NEED the voices of all our members and supporters to help deliver this message to the Department of Interior as it considers the EIS. You can help by making your voice heard at the upcoming public meeting on Tuesday, July 11, 2023 from 5-7 PM at the Aliante Hotel & Casino (Scottsdale Ballroom A&B).
The following are the major points that Protectors believes the BLM needs to consider, which are discussed in more detail in our fact sheet:
- America’s National Parks and National Monuments are important places that are enjoyed by millions.
- The Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument protects scientifically important fossils and desert habitat for plants, animals and people to enjoy.
- NV Energy has asked NPS to allow it to build the Greenlink energy transmission line ON the monument.
- In 2014, Congress gave NV Energy a power corridor – now they say it isn’t enough.
- NV Energy’s plan requires bulldozing, boring and drilling to install 8-11 enormous power poles on NPS land.
- There are numerous suspected fossils in the installation area as shown by ground penetrating radar.
- Construction of the power corridor and placement of the poles will permanently damage fossils.The power lines will detract from mountain vistas and quiet enjoyment of this outdoor space.
- NV Energy hasn’t provided an acceptable plan to remedy this damage.
- Proper excavation and storage of the fossils will cost millions of dollars.
- The BLM didn’t fully explore alternatives or consider the real cost.
- Alternatives exist that would lessen or eliminate the impact. Alternative “D” reconfigures the existing poles to carry more energy, avoiding the excavation of NPS land.
- Alternative “F” runs Greenlink along CC 215, avoiding the monument and protecting our fossils, the environment, and the views.
- The BLM should revise its impact study to further explore these options and the true costs of proper remediation.
See our fact sheet for other ways you can help and a more detailed explanation of the project and Protectors concerns.
The monument’s origin story is one of concerned citizens perservering and prevailing against all odds. Be part of Chapter 2 of the story and join Protectors’ efforts to FIGHT FOR THE FOSSILS.