Mojave National Preserve
 | Created in October, 1994 to safegaurd the natural, cultural and scenic resourse of the Mojave desert for both scientific study and scenic enjoyment. |
| Located in southern California, it encompasses ~1.6 million acres and is bordered on the north and south by I-15 and I-40, and on the east by the Nevada-California border. (Map) |
Market Failures and Potential Policies
| Molycorp Mine Inc. |
- Produces lanthanides and is one of
California's
largest
producers of toxic waste.
- Seven toxic dischages in 1995 and 1996, which released 350,000 gallons of hazardous waste into the preserve.
- Constitutes a threat to the desert tortoise.
| Policies: |
- Harsh monetary penalties for toxic waste spills.
- Regulate methods and safety precautions used during the cleaning process.
| Military Installations
|
| Policies: |
- Limit number and type of military operations.
- Make the Mojave preserve a no-fly zone.
| Expanding population of Las Vegas and Southern California |
- Approximately 5,000 new residents each month.
- Noise, air and light pollution.
- Ground water depletion.
| Policies: |
- Raise emissions standards in Nevada.
- Encourage water conservation.
| Local Pollution Issues |
- Particulate matter from off-road vehicles,
livestock
grazing and agricultural activities.
| Policies: |
- Limiting off-road uses to necessary activities.
- Limiting herd sizes.
- Implement a system of license fees.