For Immediate Release: April 30, 2002
Contact: Stephen Razo 909-697-5217; E MAIL srazo@ca.blm.gov
CA-610-02-49

Comment period extended for routes of travel review and update

Due to the public's high interest in the Western Colorado Desert routes of travel review and update, the public comment period has been extended fourteen days until May 31, 2002.

The El Centro Field Office is in the process of updating route of travel designations on public lands in the western portion of Imperial County which is commonly known as the Western Colorado (WECO) Desert planning area. The primary purpose of the update is to respond to new information and regulatory changes since the Environmental Assessment for the Vehicle Route Designation Update, El Centro Resource Area, Western Colorado Desert and Eastern San Diego County (07/31/1997) and to continue to provide a network of routes for vehicle touring and recreation access to the project area. More information on the El Centro Field Office Web pages, at: http://www.ca.blm.gov/elcentro/wecd.html.

Comments relating to developing alternatives for the proposed amendments will be accepted in writing or by e-mail through May 31, 2002. Comments previously made at two scoping meetings held on April 30 and May 2 and to the 1997 Vehicle Route Designation Update for the Western Colorado Desert and Eastern San Diego County will be considered. Public involvement is an essential part of the development of alternatives for the plan amendment. We encourage you to give us your input.

For more information or to make comments contact: Arnold F. Schoeck, Bureau of Land Management, 1661 S. 4th Street El Centro, CA 92243. (760)-337-4441 or e-mail: Arnold_Schoeck@ca.blm.gov.

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