Amargosa residents clash over conservation proposal
Amargosa Valley residents are debating a proposed Ash Meadows National Conservation Area, with discussions highlighting concerns over water resources in the face of expanding solar development and potential future data centers. While some residents fear the environmental impact of industrial growth, particularly regarding water consumption, others suggest data centers could offer economic benefits if evaluated individually. The local town board is considering ordinances to address future data center development.
Residents of Amargosa Valley, Nevada, gathered for a public meeting on June 11 to discuss the future of the valley, with significant debate over a proposed Ash Meadows National Conservation Area (NCA), solar development, and the potential for data centers. Central to the discussion was the protection of the region's limited groundwater resources, a concern shared by many but with differing views on how best to achieve it.
Town Board Chair Carolyn Allen noted the valley's appeal to developers due to cheap, open land and new transmission infrastructure like Greenlink West. Mason Voehl, executive director of the Amargosa Conservancy, presented the NCA proposal, covering 182,000 acres of Bureau of Land Management land, aiming to conserve resources while maintaining public access. Voehl highlighted successful opposition to a lithium exploration proposal and expressed concern over 25-30 solar applications in the Amargosa and Pahrump Valleys, citing the impending expiration of temporary federal protections in 2027.
Mandi Campbell of the Timbisha Shoshone community supported the NCA, voicing strong opposition to both solar and data center developments to preserve the land for future generations. However, some residents questioned the NCA's process and potential for increased federal control. Campground owner Brandon Schmidt argued industrial development extracts resources without providing lasting local benefits.
Later in the meeting, the focus shifted to data centers, which residents fear could follow transmission lines into the valley. Concerns were raised about high water consumption for cooling systems and long-term aquifer sustainability. Alexander Schoenwald emphasized the NCA's role in protecting water. Conversely, longtime resident Scott Harris argued that data centers should be evaluated individually, noting their varied designs and potential for permanent jobs and a stronger tax base. The Town Board is now evaluating both the conservation proposal and potential ordinances for future data center development, encouraging continued public engagement.