For Immediate Release: October 8, 2004 CenCal 04-04
Contact: Sky Murphy (831) 630-5039

BLM Extends Public Comment Period on Clear Creek Management Area

In response to public requests, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has extended the comment period on its draft resource management plan amendment and environmental impact statement (RMP/EIS) regarding the Clear Creek Management Area (CCMA) for 30 days, from October 15, 2004, to November 15, 2004.

The Clear Creek Management Area (CCMA) is a popular destination for off-highway vehicle (OHV) recreation, located approximately two hours south of San Jose in the Southern Diablo Mountain Range. The draft plan involves designating routes and barrens for OHV use, as well as provisions to protect several rare plants and animals, according to BLM Hollister Field Manager Bob Beehler. The draft plan also proposes expanding the San Benito Mountain Research Natural Area.

BLM released the draft RMP/EIS in July 2004 for a 90-day public comment period. The Draft RMP/EIS presents three action alternatives designed to balance OHV use with measures to reduce erosion into riparian areas and to protect sensitive habitat for the plants and animals listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act.

Three public meetings were held in September in Coalinga, Hollister, and San Jose to provide information and gather comments on the Draft RMP/EIS. Approximately 275 people attended these meetings to review the alternatives and provide comments. All comments provided by the public will be considered in preparation of the Final RMP/EIS, which is scheduled to be released next year.

Copies of the Draft RMP Amendment and Draft EIS can be viewed on-line at http://www.ca.blm.gov/hollister. Copies are also available by request from the Hollister Field Office, 20 Hamilton Ct. Hollister, CA 95023. or by calling (805) 630-5000.

-BLM-

Hollister Field Office, 20 Hamilton Court, Hollister, CA 95023