Using the Carson River as a Case Study for Successful Community Support and Collaboration in Nevada
Marenna Lovejoy
Carson City Parks, Recreation & Open Space, Carson City, Nevada
Carson City Parks, Recreation & Open Space Department has been working to update the Carson River Master Plan since 2022, with the help of the National Parks Service – Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program. Initial planning for a conserved river corridor that balanced recreation with natural and cultural resource stewardship began in the early 1990’s. An original plan for the management of the Carson River through Carson City, Nevada was published in 1996 and had the primary goal of land acquisition by the City for use and enjoyment by the public. This goal was achieved largely thanks to passage of a 1996 ballot measure titled “Question 18, Quality of Life Initiative” in which the citizens voted to increase sales tax ¼ of 1% to be allocated towards parks, trails and natural areas, enabling the creation of the Open Space Program in Carson City. No other county in Nevada has a sales tax like this, and neighboring counties Washoe and Douglas have tried but unfortunately the measure did not pass. Passage of Q18 has forever shaped the fabric of Carson City – both in terms of landscape-scale preservation (over 7,400 acres of Open Space) and quality of life for residents and visitors. Support for that ballot measure nearly 30 years ago has paved the way for community collaboration in Carson City, including the strong involvement from residents and partner organizations as we update the Carson River Master Plan. The new goals of the plan focus around enhanced recreation opportunities, improved management and restoration of natural resources and preservation of cultural resources, enhancement of education and outreach programming, and improved collaboration strategies with partners and the public.