Warm Springs Natural Area
The Warm Springs Natural Area is an
ideal
habitat for a number of sensitive species.
Located approximately seven miles northwest of the town of Moapa, the Warm Springs Natural Area contains more than two dozen springs, which form the headwaters of the Muddy River.
The Warm Springs Natural Area was formerly known as the Warm Springs Ranch. The 1,220-acre property provides habitat for 28 listed and sensitive species. For a number of years prior to the Southern Nevada Water Authority's (SNWA) involvement, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service considered this property a top priority in Southern Nevada for acquisition and protection.
Acquisition and Funding
In 2007, SNWA purchased the property, located near the Moapa Valley National Wildlife Refuge, with funding from the Southern Nevada Public Land Management Act (SNPLMA).
The Warm Springs Natural Area contains
more than two dozen springs.
SNWA purchased the property to protect the headwaters of the Muddy River and the habitat of the endangered Moapa dace. The terms of the SNPLMA require a commitment to manage the property as a natural area.
SNWA developed a Stewardship Plan for the Warm Springs Natural Area in coordination with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, The Nature Conservancy, Nevada Department of Wildlife, the signatories of the 2006 Memorandum of Understanding, and other stakeholders.
The Warm Springs Natural Area
is located approximately seven
miles northwest of Moapa.
The primary reasons for SNWA's acquisition of the Warm Springs Natural Area:
- Manage SNWA's water resources in the Muddy River and Coyote Spring Valley
- Protect the habitat of the endangered Moapa dace
- Protect the headwaters of the Muddy River where SNWA owns and leases water rights
- Advance SNWA's goal of fostering responsible environmental stewardship
