Nevada’s Opportunity: A Bold Leap for Water Security and a Greener Future
Saudi Arabia is leading the way with sustainable, energy-efficient desalination projects while maintaining its position as a world leader in desalinated water production.
Dear Friends,
Across the Southwest, a stark challenge looms: water scarcity threatens homes, agriculture, and our economic future. But in that challenge lies an unprecedented opportunity for Nevada to lead—not just for our state, but for the entire region. Today, I want to share my vision for how Nevada can become a beacon of water security and economic renewal, by pioneering large-scale desalination and pairing it with a new social contract for all.
The High Stakes of Water Scarcity
Lake Mead and the Colorado River, lifelines for millions, have reached record lows. Drought and population growth have put extraordinary pressure on existing supplies. Meanwhile, communities from Las Vegas to Reno are being forced to make tough choices about water use, conservation, and growth. Yet, as urgent as these issues are, they also invite us to think bigger and act bolder.
The Global Irony—and Our Moment to Lead
Here’s a truth that should give us pause: the Middle East, an arid region facing water scarcity for generations, has developed some of the world’s most advanced desalination technology. Many of these breakthroughs were funded, in part, by American research dollars and international aid—our very own tax dollars at work. Yet here at home, we’ve been slow to deploy these proven solutions at the scale and speed needed.
It’s deeply ironic—and it’s time to turn the tables.
Nevada as a Pioneer in Desalination
Nevada is uniquely positioned to lead a regional transformation by investing in large-scale desalination, in partnership with neighboring states and private innovators. Imagine a future where ocean water, once unusable, is converted into a reliable supply for our cities, industry, and agriculture. Imagine Nevada at the center of a new water corridor, exporting security and prosperity across Nevada and beyond.
This is not science fiction. It is the next step in our story. By championing public-private partnerships, leveraging federal support, and applying global best practices, we can build a water infrastructure worthy of the 21st century.
The Green Marshall Plan: Infrastructure and Income for All
During my campaign for Congress, I championed the Green Marshall Plan—a bold policy to close the gap between America’s environmental needs and its economic potential. The plan has two core pillars:
Green Infrastructure Investments: Massive federal and state investment in projects like desalination, renewable energy, and smart water management to create jobs, modernize our infrastructure, and safeguard the environment.
Universal Basic Income (UBI): By capturing the economic returns from these green projects—through royalties, taxes, and public ownership—we can fund a universal basic income for every Nevadan. This isn’t just about water or jobs; it’s about giving people security, dignity, and the freedom to pursue their dreams.
This dual approach ensures that everyone shares in the prosperity that comes from meeting our biggest challenges head-on. It’s a plan for Nevada, but it’s also a blueprint for a more equitable and sustainable America.
Looking Forward: I’m Running in 2028
I remain committed to this vision. That’s why I’m running for Congress again in 2028—because I believe Nevada can and should lead the West, and the nation, into a new era of security, innovation, and shared prosperity.
Let’s be clear: real change takes courage, collaboration, and a willingness to break from the status quo. But as Gandhi said, “Be the change you want to see in the world.” I invite you to join me in this movement.
Share this newsletter. Subscribe for updates. Volunteer to help shape our future. Follow our journey. Together, we can make Nevada a model for water and economic security, and a beacon of hope for the country.
With optimism and resolve,
Gamy Enriquez, MPA
References
1. U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. "Desalination and Water Purification Research and Development Program." 2023. https://www.usbr.gov/research/dwpr/
2. Pacific Institute. "Desalination: Lessons Learned and Emerging Issues." 2022. https://pacinst.org/publication/desalination-lessons-learned-and-emerging-issues/
3. Congressional Research Service. "Desalination and Membrane Technologies: Federal Research and Issues." 2022. https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/IF/IF11838
