BLM ACCEPTING COMMENTS ON DRAFT COASTAL MONUMENT PLAN

The U. S. Bureau of Land Management today released for public review and comment the Draft Resource Management Plan (RMP)/Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the California Coastal National Monument.

The document details a range of alternatives for managing approximately 20,000 rocks, small islands, pinnacles and exposed reefs off the entire 1,100-mile California coastline. These features, encompassing about 1,000 acres, are within a 14,600 nautical-mile area extending from the mean high tide line, out 12 nautical miles.

"We appreciate the input received from many individuals and organizations as we worked on this document," said Monument Manager Rick Hanks. "Now, we hope people will continue their involvement by reviewing and commenting on the draft RMP/EIS."

Comments will be accepted until Dec. 16, 2004. The BLM will use all comments received to prepare a Proposed RMP/ Final EIS for release next spring.

This combination draft plan and draft EIS have been mailed to requesters. The documents can be viewed online at www.ca.blm.gov/pa/coastal_monument/. Printed or compact disc copies are available from: California Coastal National Monument, 299 Foam St., Monterey, CA 93940. The documents can also be reviewed at the California Coastal National Monument office in Monterey, at the BLM California State Office in Sacramento, and at BLM field offices in Arcata, Ukiah, Hollister, Bakersfield, Palm Springs and Moreno Valley.

Comments may be sent to the above address, sent by email to: cacam@ca.blm.gov, or faxed to monument office at (831) 647-4244. Comments may also be submitted through the RMP Response Form found at www.ca.blm.gov/pa/coastal_monument/comment_page.htm.

Overall, the draft management plan and EIS focus on protecting the scenic and geologic formations in the monument and the habitat they provide for seabirds, sea mammals and unique vegetation. There are provisions for research, education, and additional planning through coordination with other agencies and organizations, according to Monument Manager Rick Hanks. There are also provisions for recreation uses that are compatible with the guidance in the presidential proclamation that created the monument in January of 2000.

-BLM-

California Coastal National Monument 299 Foam Street Monterey, CA 93940