BLM Announces Interim Supplementary Rules for California Desert

The Bureau of Land Management today released interim final supplementary rules for public lands managed by the California Desert District. The rules clarify and simplify guidelines for visitors to public lands within the BLM California Desert District.

“These eight common sense rules are designed to protect public safety and natural resources and improve recreation experiences for everyone who enjoys the California Desert,” said District Manager Teri Raml.

The interim supplemental rules prohibit riding in truck beds; using metal such as nails in firewood; glass containers; public nudity; and the use of metal or wooden stakes. They also prohibit reserving or saving camping spaces in OHV open areas; require campsites be kept free of trash and litter; and impose limitations on camping at Competition Hill at Dumont Dunes.

Developed in coordination with the Desert Advisory Council and recreation user groups, the rules are necessary to enhance the safety of visitors, protect public health, protect natural resources, and improve recreation experiences and opportunities, she said.
 
“Although these rules go into effect immediately, the BLM is also seeking public comment on issues, concerns, potential impacts, alternatives, and mitigation measures that should be considered during a 30-day comment period that will end July 26, 2010,” said Raml. Publication of final supplementary rules will occur after all public comments are considered.

Information on the rules is available in the BLM California Desert District Office as well as all BLM field offices in Barstow, El Centro, Moreno Valley, Needles, Palm Springs/South Coast and Ridgecrest, and at other visitor areas throughout the Desert District.  The rules may also be viewed online at www.blm.gov/ca/st/en/fo/cdd/cdd_supplementary.html.

An estimated 5.5 million people visit the 11 million acres in the California desert administered by the BLM California Desert District each year for a large variety of recreational and other activities.  Expanding some of the regulations District-wide in these interim final supplementary rules will result in a more consistent application and enforcement of rules that are intended to benefit the public. 
 
Comments can be submitted by mail or delivered to: BLM California Desert District Office, Attn: Lynnette Elser, 22835 Calle San Juan De Los Lagos, Moreno Valley, California 92553.  For further information contact:  Lynnette Elser (951) 697-5233.  E-mail comments to Lynnette Elser: lelser@blm.gov.

California Desert District Office   22835 Calle San Juan de Los Lagos      Moreno Valley, CA 92553