As potentially dangerous drone technology becomes cheaper and more widespread, coordinated planning and information sharing are essential to protecting critical infrastructure and public safety from this emerging threat.
That’s where the newly formed Southern Nevada Unmanned Aircraft Systems/Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS/CUAS) Working Group comes in. Co-chaired by Nevada National Security Sites (NNSS) Project Manager Barry Ryan and City of North Las Vegas Assistant Emergency Manager Jeremy Hynds, the working group aims to improve response coordination across the region and promote joint training, awareness, and education on UAS threats.
“Drone technology is evolving quickly, and addressing the risks and opportunities it creates requires strong regional coordination,” said Lucas Basham Murphy, manager of the Strategic Operations and Response Support Division at NNSS. “The Southern Nevada UAS/CUAS Working Group brings together partners from across the public safety, emergency management, and security communities so we can share information, align planning efforts, and build a unified approach to emerging drone-related challenges.”
In a significant milestone, the Southern Nevada UAS/CUAS Working Group was recently incorporated as a subcommittee of the Clark County Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC). The LEPC plays a central role in regional emergency planning, particularly for hazardous materials and community safety. Formal inclusion ensures that drone-related preparedness is integrated into county planning efforts.
Because drone incidents can involve aviation safety, law enforcement, emergency management and critical infrastructure protection, the subcommittee currently includes the NNSS, Clark County Emergency Management, aviation and airspace stakeholders and public safety agencies, among others. Participation is expected to continue expanding as more regional partners engage in the effort.
