Carson City · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Carson City public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
FY2027 Habitat Research and Predator Management Funding
A status report on the Department's predator management work, including which species and areas were targeted.
2027-2028 Falconry Regulations
The board will discuss falconry rules for 2027-2028, with the state Department recommending no changes. Falconry participation has dropped from 34 falconers in 2014-15 to 14 in 2025.
Executive Order 2026-003 Regulatory Review
Under Governor Lombardo's executive order, wildlife regulations in NAC Chapters 488-504 will be reviewed for streamlining or repeal. This could change hunting, fishing, and wildlife rules statewide.
Urban Forestry Management and Tree Health
City staff presented updates on urban tree health, emphasizing ongoing challenges with irrigation, clogged emitters, and tree diseases while highlighting recent capital improvement funding for tree replacement and care.
Wildlife Salvage Permit Regulations
The board reviewed new state regulations allowing motorists to claim and salvage certain wildlife species struck by vehicles, establishing clear rules for carcass removal and reporting.
2026-2028 Small Game Seasons and Bag Limits
Hunters will see a one-week delay to the start of the upland game season this fall to protect bird populations recovering from dry conditions. State biologists explained that hunting birds while they are heavily reliant on water sources can put extra stress on local coveys.
Nevada Starry Skies Certification Program
The Nevada Division of Outdoor Recreation presented a program to help Carson City secure dark-sky certifications for public areas like Silver Saddle Ranch to protect wildlife and reduce light pollution.
Water Restrictions
Carson City's summer water rules are officially live, meaning you need to stick to your watering days or risk getting hit with a fine. It's the usual seasonal drill to keep our local water supply stable during the hot months.
Mule Deer Herd Population and Quota Adjustments
The wildlife board reviewed proposed tag quotas for mule deer, elk, and other big game, supporting reductions in Unit 192 to help deer herds recover from past severe winters. Biologists also noted ongoing challenges from wild horse populations and urban development along the Carson Front.
Black Bear Harvest Quotas and Population Stability
The board supported maintaining stability in the 2026 black bear hunting quotas, noting that vehicle collisions account for more bear mortalities than the regulated hunt.
Urban Wildlife Management and Public Education
Review of the 2025 Urban Wildlife Report showed that Carson City's animal service calls are declining compared to larger counties, largely thanks to effective public education and community outreach regarding cohabitating with wildlife.
Hunting Technology Regulations (Range Finders and Thermal Imaging)
The wildlife board debated new state regulations targeting high-tech hunting gear. Members pushed back against a ban on automatic range-finding scopes, arguing it helps hunters make ethical shots, while also demanding that thermal imaging restrictions apply statewide but exempt coyote and predator hunters.
Eastgate Depot Backflow System Repairs
Commissioners reviewed depot upgrades, including electrical improvements, ADA accessibility, rodent mitigation, and signage, alongside track maintenance and engineering reports for slope mitigation.