What is the Red Rock Desert Learning Center?

The Red Rock Desert Learning Center (RRDLC) and Wild Horse and Burro Facility is planned as an outdoor education center for local elementary students. Architects are designing these facilities on the site of the former Oliver Ranch, in Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and north of Blue Diamond on State Route 159. Construction of the project is being funded by the Southern Nevada Public Land Management Act (SNPLMA).

Project Origins

Las Vegas resident Blaine Benedict got the idea for a Mojave Desert science school in 1999 after visiting other science schools in the West. He began working with the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to see if the idea was possible. The Outside Las Vegas Foundation and other groups helped expand the vision. The BLM ordered a feasibility study and looked at possible sites. Since July 2003 public meetings including interested residents and business and government representatives have been held to help the BLM plan the project.

Science School

The RRDLC will teach the Las Vegas valley’s fifth-graders about desert ecosystems and the environment. Hands-on activities will help students answer their own questions about nature. The current plan calls for a 4-day, 3-night experience, but other options will be available.

Why fifth-graders? Education specialists agree that fifth-graders are just the right age to gain from such an experience. Nevada’s science curriculum standards focus on environmental science concepts in fifth grade.

Learning activities in their regular classroom will help prepare students for their visit to the school, and follow-up lessons will help them remember what they’ve learned. The Internet and video-conferencing may also allow children and teachers in other states to experience the school’s activities.

Wild Horse and Burro Facility

The Wild Horse and Burro Facility will be a place where the public can learn about the National Wild Horse and Burro Program. Exhibits will explain the challenges of managing the herds in balance with the other parts of the desert ecosystem. The facility will include a small adoption arena, barn, and pasture. Animals will not be kept there long term. Instead, it will provide temporary housing for animals available for adoption.

Project Funding

Money from the 1998 Southern Nevada Public Land Management Act is funding both the school and the horse and burro facility. This act allows the sale of federally owned land around Las Vegas. Proceeds from the sales are funding many upgrades to the valley’s conservation and recreation areas. The projected cost of designing and building both facilities is about $41.5 million. The Secretary of the Interior approved funds for the project.

Who’s Involved

The proposed site is on BLM land. The UNLV Public Lands Institute is providing coordination of curriculum development and public outreach. The Clark County School District, Community College of Southern Nevada, and the Desert Research Institute are integral in developing activities at the school. The Outside Las Vegas Foundation, Red Rock Canyon Interpretive Association, Friends of Red Rock Canyon, National Wild Horse and Burro Association, and other groups serve as partners.

Facility Operation

The RRDLC operate independently of the Clark County School District and will not receive school district funds. The BLM plans to select a professional operator of the school in 2006.

Safety and Security

The safety and security of children are of utmost importance in the planning of the Red Rock Desert Learning Center. A Clark County School District risk manager has evaluated the school and a number of security measures are planned. The location will be run by a professional, insured operator and will feature on-site staff. Public access will be tightly controlled. Internal and external security systems will be used. Emergency and first aid plans will be in place.

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