PROTECTION OF RED ROCK CANYON

One area that the Fords came to know well was Red Rock Canyon, located west of Las Vegas. In addition to its natural beauty, the area is geologically significant and contains archaeological sites. Jean took her Girl Scout troop camping in the area and the Fords explored it both on hikes and car trips. The Fords also took part in an archaeological dig in the area. Through her involvement with the League of Women Voters, Jean served on a Bureau of Land Management sub-committee that prepared a report of recommendations for protection of Red Rock Canyon lands. In 1965 Jean organized a survey of people asking whether they would use Red Rock Canyon as a park if it were so designated. After several days soliciting input at the Jaycee Fair, over 750 responses were gathered and the results presented to BLM. The report and survey led to the creation of a partnership between BLM and Nevada State Parks for managing and protecting the canyon.