MESQUITE, Nev. -- It all began in 1991, when a group of wildlife conservancy experts saw the need for gathering and storing genetic resources of endangered animal species.
Headed by David A. Kirk, the group became known as Noah's Ark Conservancy Foundation.As the group met and planned, the dream of a large wildlife park and recreation area began to emerge. At this point, the group began looking for an area where they could build facilities to house their dream. They found it on Flat Top Mesa bordering Mesquite to the west.
The project moved a step closer to reality when it recently got the blessing of Mesquite officials. Mayor Ken Carter said the city passed a resolution to help the group acquire land on Flat Top Mesa, just west of town along with land on the south side of the freeway toward the Virgin River. The group needs about 2,700 acres with close proximity to water and freeway access.
Carter said the wildlife park, a giant structure resembling Noah's Ark, some scenic villages from around the world and research facilities would "add much to attract visitors to the Mesquite area."