LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – A multi-million dollar nature preserve is coming to Henderson. FOX5′s Kim Passoth went to the 1,200 acres site Monday to check out what is there and what is to come at the
Black Mountain Nature Preserve.
“It is an opportunity to step out your door and go right into nature,” shared Amie Wojtech, Park Planning Manager for the City of Henderson, Parks and Recreation Department while standing next to Passoth.
“Really, Henderson in its natural form?,” Passoth questioned.
“Yes, absolutely,” Wojtech replied.
The rocky terrain is natural open space for recreation, appreciation of nature, and environmental preservation.
As development encroaches on the edges of the Vegas Valley, the City of Henderson says is important to protect and preserve public land for all the enjoy.
“Ultimately, what you are seeing today really stays about that same,” Wojtech reported about the plan.
“Right now, people are kind of making their own trails,” Passoth asked.
“We are really going to take into consideration, all of the trails that are out there so we are not blazing more trails so to speak,” Wojtech explained.
The preserve, with an anticipated four miles of trails, will connect much of the southside of Henderson through a trail network.
“We envision that Black Mountain Nature Preserve will connect to Hidden Falls Park via Amargosa Trail and then if we go to the south a little bit, we envision it connecting to the McCullough Hills Trail which then connects you to Anthem East Trail and as well as BLM trails,” Wojtech revealed.
The BLM trails include Sloan Canyon, a place where wildlife life like desert tortoises and even big horn sheep can be spotted.
The Black Mountain Nature Preserve was approved for funding through the Southern Nevada Public Land Management Act and the award amount is $5,608,540.00.
Last week, the City of Henderson approved $100,000 for a design firm and the project is now in the master plan phase. Soon, the City of Henderson will be seeking public input, like if should there be bike trails or even a ropes course. Right now, the preserve is slated to include formal trails, scenic overlooks, interpretive signs, restrooms, and a solar-powered parking area.
The city says the survey on what people want to see at the preserve will be on their website and social media. For now, you can use “Contact Henderson” to reach the Parks Department with your feedback: City of Henderson feedback
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