Singletary, L. 2005, Public Policies Affecting Water Use in Nevada Water Issues Education Series – No. 1, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, FS-05-19

Nevada is the seventh largest state in size with more than 110,000 square miles of land area. Nevada is also the driest state in the nation. The fastest growing area of the state, southern Nevada, only gets 4 inches average annual precipitation. Over 68 percent of Nevada’s population lives in Clark County in southern Nevada. Approximately 20 percent of the state’s population resides in northern Nevada in the communities of Reno, Carson City and Lake Tahoe. To complicate these demographics further, the vast majority of Nevada (87%) is controlled by the federal government.

Water scarcity is one of the most pressing issues facing the American West. Agriculture, cities, towns and industry are the primary water users. There are more conflicts over water than ever before in the American West. More frequently, these conflicts involve litigation.

There are several competing uses for water in Nevada. These include the use of water to:

  • Irrigate crops, including hay, onions, garlic, melons, potatoes, grapes and other vegetables.
  • Water livestock, including horses, dairy cattle, beef cattle and sheep.
  • Sustain habitat to support wildlife including fish, birds, deer, wild horses, and other wildlife.
  • Supply water recreation opportunities such as fishing, swimming and boating.
  • Supply other recreation including parks and golf courses.

This fact sheet describes demographic trends in Nevada in light of its history as a leader in water resource development in the western U.S. Population growth and changing attitudes towards water resources in addition to shifts in federal policy create an unprecedented period of conflict and change surrounding water. This is particularly the case for rural Nevadans including farmers and ranchers.

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Loretta Singletary
Loretta Singletary
 

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