LAS VEGAS - The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is planning ahead for large-scale solar development on public lands, outlining 24 Solar Energy Zones in southwestern states. The idea is to find areas with the most solar potential and the least conflict with wildlife and recreation uses.

The Wilderness Society (TWS) says the federal agency is doing a good job. In Nevada, Clint Bentley, director of the Fraternity of the Desert Bighorn, agrees.

"Delamar Valley and Dry Lake Valley North – those areas would would fit the criteria that we're looking for and have the least amount of impact, not only on the bighorn sheep but on other wildlife in those areas."

TWS has issued a new report reviewing the proposed Solar Energy Zones. Of the two dozen sites, it indicates major concerns about only three of them - one in Arizona and two in California.

Alex Daue, TWS renewable energy coordinator, says outlining the zones ahead of time is good business for the solar industry as well as the environment.

"The fact that these areas are generally flat, have great solar resources, and are close to existing roads and power lines will decrease construction costs."

For the Nevada sites, he says the report finds that local support is strong when folks discover that popular hunting, fishing and hiking areas won't be impacted. The BLM is expected to complete the environmental review of the sites next year.

The report is online at wilderness.org/content/smartsolar.