Abbie Veitch, abbie.veitch@sierraclub.org
Courtney Bourgoin, courtney.bourgoin@sierraclub.org
Washington, DC— In the final text version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) released today, Congress has denied the Defense Department’s request to seize more than 1.7 million acres of land in Desert National Wildlife Refuge and other public lands for military bombing ranges. The decision comes after Tribal Nations, conservationists and communities joined to push back on the proposal.
In response, representatives of groups who fought the expansion, released the following statements:
“On behalf of the Moapa Band of Paiutes, we would like to thank all those who tirelessly gave their efforts and voice in this campaign to stop the Tuhut (Desert National Wildlife Refuge) land grab from military seizure,” said Greg Anderson Sr., Vice Chairman of the Moapa Band of Paiutes. “This is one victory we could not have done alone and we thank all the agencies, coalitions, tribes and the 32,000 individuals who submitted comments to the Air Force opposing the Desert refuge takeover. Our hearts are overwhelmed with gratitude on this victorious day and we send our prayers in the four directions to all those involved that you be blessed in all your efforts. We know there are many battles ahead of us and with your continued support we can stand together to protect our mother earth, wildlife, and the people who hold the land dearest to their hearts.”
“Thanks to communities, public lands advocates, Indigenous Nations and champions in Congress, the military spending bill protects the Desert Refuge and other public lands for future generations to enjoy and explore,” said Christian Gerlach, an Organizing Representative for Sierra Club. “The wildlife, culture and history at stake here are far too valuable to sacrifice for unnecessary militarization on our public lands. It is past time to put in place permanent safeguards for these lands.”
“This announcement is a huge victory for the people of Nevada, public lands and wildlife,” said Brian Beffort, Director of the Toiyabe Sierra Club Chapter in Nevada. “The expansion of the Fallon and Nellis military operations would be detrimental to wildlife, public lands, and the protection of Tribal culture and history. Sacrificing Nevada’s natural heritage for the claim of national security is a false choice we should not have to make. These treasured places deserve permanent protection, not destruction.”
About the Sierra Club
The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with more than 3.5 million members and supporters. In addition to protecting every person's right to get outdoors and access the healing power of nature, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit www.sierraclub.org.