Help celebrate increased public access to outdoor recreation by joining Washoe County Commissioner Bob Larkin for the site dedication of a new County trailhead in Spanish Springs at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 12, 2011.

The future Spanish Springs Trailhead will provide non-motorized access to over 330 acres of federal Bureau of Land Management open space along the west side of Spanish Springs Valley. Washoe County has entered into a agreement with the BLM to cooperatively plan and manage the land.

“This begins the process of looking for the funding and working with the public to plan a new and much needed outdoor recreational opportunity,” Commissioner Larkin said. “In partnership with the BLM, we are able to increase access to public lands while preserving scenic views that are an important part of why people chose to live in northern Nevada.

“Washoe County is committed to maintaining a high quality of life and building healthy communities. The future Spanish Spring Trailhead is important to that effort.”

What: Dedication of site for future Spanish Springs Trailhead

When: 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 12, 2011

Directions: North on Pyramid Way from McCarran. Left on Eagle Canyon Right on W. Calle de la Plata (just past Spanish Spring High School) left on Fuggles Drive; left again on Kinglet Drive to future trailhead site

Additional information and benefits:

•The property is designated for “recreation and public purposes” by the BLM •Washoe County partnership with the BLM provides the public with additional opportunities for outdoor recreation while enhancing management of natural resources •Native vegetation provides habitat for a variety of local wildlife •Open Space area will serve as a buffer for natural and cultural resources amid a highly populated area •Future non-motorized trails will connect to the Washoe County Regional Trail System

The Spanish Springs Trailhead will be managed by Washoe County’s Department of Regional Parks and Open Space. The Department’s mission is to provide exceptional parks and open space, and recreational opportunities while preserving our natural, historical and cultural resources. For more information, visit www.washoecountyparks.com .