PORTER TESTIFIES ON ORCHARD BASIN FLOOD CONTROL LEGISLATION

Washington, DC- Congressman Jon Porter testified before the House Natural Resources Committee, Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Public Lands today regarding the Orchard Basin Flood Control Act, H.R. 816, which Porter introduced earlier this year.

The Orchard Basin Flood Control Act would transfer 65 acres of land in the Sunrise Mountain Instant Study Area to Clark County for the construction of a regional flood control project known as the Orchard Detention Basin and Collection System.  The land is strategically located at a central point for flood control efforts. In addition, the basin is a vital part of the Clark County Regional Flood Control District’s master plan to protect the rapidly growing Las Vegas Valley from flooding. This project is designed to shield 1,200 acres of urban land from flash floods and help mitigate the potential risks to residential communities, homes, schools and businesses.

Congressman Porter called for the swift passage of this legislation, which would allow for construction to begin immediately on the Orchard Detention Basin Project. “Southern Nevada has, too often, lost lives and property to the flash flooding we experience every year,” Porter said, “Immediate passage of this legislation will allow Clark County to enhance flood control efforts which saves lives every year in my district.”