1960s - 1970s

Grayscale photo of Southern Nevada Water Project water turn-on ceremony, at Alfred Merritt Smith Water Treatment Facility.

1960-1971

Design begins on a two-stage water system to treat water from Lake Mead and deliver it to Las Vegas. The district's largest undertaking to date is one of the most important achievements in Southern Nevada's history—providing a reliable water supply for Las Vegas helps to create one of the world's most popular resort destinations and America's youngest major metropolitan area.

Grayscale photo of group of 8 men in front of a sign for the Leonard R. Fayle reservoir and pumping station.

Photo courtesy of the UNLV Lied Library Special Collections Department.

1970

40-million-gallon Fayle Reservoir and pumping station opens. This major expansion project helps deliver water to the valley.

Grayscale photo of Alfred Merritt Smith Water Treatment Facility sign in front of fountain.

Photo courtesy of the UNLV Lied Library Special Collections Department.

1971

The Alfred Merritt Smith Water Treatment Facility, the first stage of the Southern Nevada Water System, begins treating and delivering Colorado River water.

Grayscale photo of Las Vegas well derrick in historic Las Vegas Springs desert area.

1978

The Water District and concerned citizens petition to have the area surrounding the historic Las Vegas Springs designated as an archaeological site and added to the National Register of Historic Places—ensuring protection from encroaching development.