Nevada Policy Scenarios

HIS/311 Version 3

University of Phoenix Material

Nevada Policy Scenarios
Complete the following scenarios related to Nevada policy.
1. Western Water Policy
In light of population growth, Nevada must continue to seek new resources for water
consumption. Options include working with farmers and states such as California, Arizona,
Idaho, and even the country of Mexico. There are also various Lake Mead projects that could
supply the needed water, as well as conservation projects within the state of Nevada. Write a
350- to 400-word response answering the following questions:
a.Can you project the potential role the state government will need to fulfill in this
scenario?
b.Can you project the role the federal government might need to fulfill in this scenario?
c.How much of a role should the federal government play in western water policy?
Explain your answers.
2. Exploitation of Nevada Resources
A radioactive waste disposal company has recently settled a contract agreeing to dispose of
radioactive waste for various nuclear power plants located across the United States.
Company executives, following several meetings, have decided to pursue waste disposal at
Yucca Mountain, a short distance from Las Vegas. Using Ch. 11 of The Sagebrush State as a
guide, write a 350- to 400-word response answering the following questions:
a.In light of court decisions in the 1990s regarding control of federal lands in Nevada, why
would eastern politicians and nuclear power plant owners show little regard for
Nevadans who oppose storage of nuclear waste in Nevada?
b.Is there any aspect of the Nevada Constitution that would influence land-use policies
such as the one in this scenario? Explain your answer.
c.In what ways can the Nevada state government play a role in important land-use
decisions similar to this?
3. Past and Present Gaming
Suppose you had the opportunity to develop a new casino in Nevada. Write a 350- to 400word response answering the following questions:
a.What historic political, social, and economic trends could you reference to support the
positive opportunity and benefits of building a casino? What current political, social,
and economic issues might deter you from embarking on such a project?
b.Consider land-ownership issues.

Nevada Policy Scenarios

HIS/311 Version 3

4. Alternative Sources of Energy in Nevada

The availability of land, sunlight, and other natural resources make Nevada an ideal location
for alternative energy sources. Speculate on how Nevada could capture these resources to
create a competitive advantage in their area. In what ways would this advantage be affected
by political, social, and land-ownership issues? Write a 350- to 400-word response that
considers political, social, and land-ownership issues relative to each of the following
alternative energy sources:
a.Solar
b.Geothermal
c.Wind
d.Hydroelectric