Date: 9/03/09
Contact: Martin Olson
Phone: (702) 486-5127

HUNTERS SHOULD TAKE NOTICE OF THE BEST IN THE DESERT RACE

The Bureau of Land Management has issued a permit for an off-road race that could impact hunting activity in five hunt units in southern Nevada. There will be no official road closure associated with this race; however, hunters should be aware of increased human and vehicular activity in usually remote areas of units 223, 231, 241, 242 and 271. The Best in the Desert race, which will stretch for about 300 miles through parts of central and southern Lincoln County, is scheduled for Sept. 26.

An estimated 250 spectators are expected to attend the event, which will also include as many as 250 entrants in categories for full-size trucks, buggies, motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles. The race will begin at Alamo and finish at Maynard Lake just south of the Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge along U.S. Highway 93.

A reconnaissance ride of the entire race course will be held Sept. 12-13, but speeds will not exceed 35 miles per hour. The start and finish line will most likely host the majority of spectators, but hunters should anticipate an increase in activity all along the racecourse. Anyone planning to hunt in the affected units who would like more information should contact Chris Linehan, outdoor recreation planner in the Bureau of Land Management Caliente Field Office, 775-726-8126.

The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) protects, restores and manages fish and wildlife, promotes fishing, hunting, and boating safety. NDOW’s wildlife and habitat conservation efforts are primarily funded by sportsmen’s license and conservation fees and a federal surcharge on hunting and fishing gear. Visit www.ndow.org.