260 



source and use of water at the site and the presence of particularly sen- 

 sitive habitat on the site for the desert tortoise, a threatened species in 

 Nevada. We have conveyed these concerns to Aerojet General personnel. 

 Because of the preliminary scope of the project, it is difficult to deter- 

 mine the complete range of impacts from the project at this time. We're 

 certain, however, that the concerns expressed by Clark County and local 

 environmental groups can be resolved. In our meetings with Aerojet General 

 staff, we have been impressed by the sensitivity shown with respect to 

 local problems. Aerojet has also demonstrated an understanding of the 

 issues as documented in the "Draft Environmental Assessment Florida-Nevada 

 Land Exchange" produced by the firm. The lines of communication between 

 Aerojet and government in southern Nevada have been open and discussions 

 constructive. Aerojet General personnel are working closely with County 

 staff to mitigate potential adverse effects of the project. 



We would urge the Subcommittee on Public Lands, National Parks and Forests 

 to support approval of S. 854. This project is important to the economy of 

 Nevada and to the defense needs of the nation. 



S. 59/H.R. 267 



"NATIONAL FORESTS AND PUBLIC LANDS OF NEVADA 



ENHANCEMENT ACT OF 1987" 



S. 59/H.R. 267 are also of importance to citizens of Clark County and 

 Nevada. These bills are the result of a proposal by the federal government 

 in 1985 to transfer control of all public lands in Clark County including 

 those located in the Toiyabe National Forest to the Bureau of Land 

 Management (BLM). 



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