Sandoval approves of U.S. Senate passing Nevada land bills

After more than five years of wrangling, the U.S. Senate has passed a bipartisan package of land bills to promote economic development in northern Nevada while protecting some unspoiled sites as wilderness areas. “The passage of this important legislation will have a direct impact on all Nevadans. This bill will open the door to economic development, job creation, mining, ranching, and protect some of Nevada's treasured lands which will preserve our state for its next generation of citizens,” Gov. Brian Sandoval, R-NV said. “I would like to thank the members of our Congressional delegation who supported the NDAA and hope for a swift signature from President Obama so all Nevadans can begin to enjoy the benefits of this significant bill.” The Senate's action follows the House's approval of the bill last week. The legislation, included in a defense spending bill, now goes to President Barack Obama for his signature. One of the measures allows the sale of some 10,000 acres of federal land to Yerington to support development of Nevada Copper Corp.'s mine and other industrial projects while creating the 48,000-acre Wovoka Wilderness. Another bill sets aside 26,000 acres northwest of Winnemucca as the Pine Forest Range Wilderness while allowing nearby ranchers to secure land exchanges with the government to ensure their economic future. AP