For Immediate Release: May 18, 2004
Contact: Steven Hall, 970-244-3052

Bangs Canyon recreation meeting set for May 25

GRAND JUNCTION — The Bureau of Land Management Bangs Canyon area, 58,106 acres located just south of Grand Junction, is one of Mesa County’s favorite playgrounds. A Bangs Canyon plan implementation meeting will be held from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, May 25 in the Holiday Inn at 755 Horizon Dr. in Grand Junction.

The Bangs Canyon Special Recreation Management Plan, completed in 1999, involved the public in determining future uses of this popular and spectacular area. Due to its proximity to Grand Junction, the area is loved by everyone who enjoys their public lands. The area is bounded on the south and east by Hwy 141, on the west by the Colorado National Monument and by private property to the west.

“The 1999 plan established six recreational emphasis zones, each with its own management scenario,” said Catherine Robertson, BLM Grand Junction Field Manager. “We hope to get input from the public on our continuing efforts to manage the area under the 1999 plan and make the community’s vision a reality.”

Implementing the Bangs Canyon plan will involve the possible closure or re-routing of some trails, as well as the development of additional trails where appropriate. The May 25 meeting will give the public an opportunity to help plan what recreational trails will be built, re-routed or closed.

The 1999 plan designated 47,033 acres, or 81 percent of the Bangs Canyon Area, for primitive, undeveloped recreational opportunities. Another 4,476 acres, or 8 percent, were designated for motorized recreation. The remainder of the area designated for non-motorized recreation, including hiking and mountain biking.

-BLM-