Bridgeport access to Dominguez canyon temporarily closed

GRAND JUNCTION, CO – The Bureau of Land Management Grand Junction Field Office has issued a temporary closure to Dominguez canyon from Bridgeport, as well as from the Gunnison River and its banks. Effective from October 24 through November 12, 2005, the closure prohibits all public use and entry from the gate at the Bridgeport parking area south for 1-¾ miles. Heavy equipment weighing nearly 200 tons is being used to construct BLM’s new pedestrian bridge. Neighboring private landowners and their agents, and employees of the general contractor, railroad and BLM working in their official capacity are exempt from the closure.

“BLM wants to ensure public safety during construction of the new bridge and this brief closure is the best way to that,” Recreation Program Manager Britta Laub said. “If construction can stay on schedule, the public will enjoy legal access to the Dominguez Canyon WSA in time for the holidays.“

Public access to the Dominguez WSA remains available through the Dominguez campground, the Tabeguache trail and the Cactus Park trailhead east of Hwy 141. The Bridgeport parking area and boat launch are available for those who fish and boat on the Gunnison River downstream, or north, of Bridgeport. The Bridgeport parking area is accessed directly off of the Bridgeport/Deer Creek Rd (39.50 Rd). Other recreation opportunities available outside this area include the Gunnison Bluffs, Old Spanish Trail and the McCarty Trail.

43 CFR 9268.3(d) Operations-Closures (1) Closure of Lands provides for this temporary closure. Those choosing to violate the closure order could face up to $1,000 in fines or imprisonment for up to 12 months, or both. For additional information, contact Recreation Program Manager Britta Laub at (970) 244-3031.

-BLM-