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Stewards of the Las Vegas Valley Watershed™
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The wetlands at the eastern edge of the Las Vegas Valley are a rare and strikingly beautiful ecosystem that serve as home to more than 200 species of birds, including herons, egrets, quail, hawks, ducks and exotic migratory birds, as well as 70 species of reptiles and mammals such as beavers, bobcats, coyotes and snakes.

The entire Las Vegas Valley watershed, encompassing some 1600 square miles, drains to Lake Mead via the Las Vegas Wash.  That portion of the Las Vegas Wash downstream from the urban area of Las Vegas is a green oasis of wetlands and water courses nourished by the treated and purified wastewater of Las Vegas on its return journey to Lake Mead and the Colorado River.

Trails wind alongside ponds and streams, through mesquite woodland, rich greenery and picturesque desert vistas, offering an exquisite retreat, a peaceful sanctuary seemingly a world apart from the bustle and commotion of the city.

Established by volunteers who for decades generously offered their time and resources, the Desert Wetlands Conservancy is a nonprofit advocacy group with a long history of advocating on environmental issues with a particular focus on water quality in Southern Nevada.

Our interest is the ecological health of the Las Vegas Valley watershed in general with a focus on the riparian area of the Las Vegas Wash.  Our major activities deal with the ecological integrity of the riparian area, including such issues as water quality, invasive species, recreation and sustainable management policies.  To visualize the magnitude of the Wash and its watershed, click here to download the Las Vegas Valley Watershed Map.

Our Mission

The mission of the Desert Wetlands Conservancy is to educate people as to the existence of the Wash’s wetlands, their purpose in maintaining a thriving ecosystem and restoring natural habitats, and their importance in enhancing the quality of life in the community.

Once people realize the significance of the wetlands, they will join with us in our efforts to influence policy, create partnerships, and initiate activities in advocacy for the Las Vegas Valley Watershed, including Clark County Wetlands Park.

Our Vision And Goals

“A fully functioning Las Vegas Valley watershed and wetlands ecosystem enhances the quality of life and sustains our community.”

Four goals focused on advocacy, organization, education and outreach, and partnerships have been established in the Conservancy’s strategic plan created in 2008.
Goal I – Advocate for actions to protect and restore the Las Vegas Valley Watershed and Clark County Wetlands Park, and restore them to a fully functioning ecosystem.
Goal II – Create and maintain an effective organization.
Goal III – Provide public recognition of the critical importance of a healthy, fully functional watershed through outreach and education to the community.
Goal IV – Create cooperative partnerships to advance the organization’s mission.