In June, the Nevada Division of Water Resources (NDWR) concluded a series of public outreach presentations held in Elko, Winnemucca, and Lovelock to discuss critical water rights issues in the Humboldt River region. Led by State Engineer Adam Sullivan, P.E., and senior NDWR staff, the meetings focused on practical strategies for managing both groundwater pumping and surface water rights through conjunctive management.
These presentations built upon the foundation established during prior engagement efforts, including public workshops and the ongoing work of the Humboldt River Stakeholder Working Group. The sessions provided important technical updates on NDWR’s efforts to protect the region’s water resources, including a preview of the forthcoming draft curtailment order, and allowed for open discussion of complementary actions aimed at mitigating potential impacts.
Each meeting drew strong attendance, with dozens of participants representing a broad cross-section of the public, including farmers, local governments, the mining industry, and individual water right holders. The tone of the conversations was alert, constructive, and highly engaged—reflecting the seriousness of the issues at hand and the shared desire to find equitable and evidence-based solutions.
“These sessions are a vital part of our commitment to transparency, accountability, and sound water management,” said State Engineer Adam Sullivan. “The feedback we received will help shape not only the draft curtailment order but also the Division’s broader approach to implementing responsible, data-informed, and locally grounded strategies in accordance with Nevada water law.”
NDWR sincerely thanks all who attended and contributed to these productive sessions. The Division encourages continued public engagement and invites the public to follow updates and next steps on our website.
View full announcement about the Humboldt River Outreach Series in PDF.