Public lands benefit from National Guard

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. – Through a Memorandum of Understanding the BLM Grand Junction Field Office (GJFO) has with the Colorado Army National Guard, public lands are benefiting while the U.S. taxpayers are saving money.

Every year the National Guard schedules field training exercises on public lands administered by the GJFO for the purpose of qualifying personnel in the use of high-powered firearms and in navigating unfamiliar lands in heavy-duty military vehicles. Public lands typically assigned for these training soirées include BLM’s recently improved shooting range at 27¼ Road, and the Cactus Park area located south of Highway 141. The 27¼ Road shooting range will be closed to civilians from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on September 9 for National Guard field exercises.

In return, the National Guard assists the GJFO with on-the-ground projects and maintenance issues, providing the necessary heavy equipment and operators, while conducting important training missions. One recent project accomplished the clean up and repair of the historic desert landfill north of the airport.

“These kinds of partnerships enhance BLM’s capabilities to manage resources and maintain the infrastructure that provides the public access to their public lands,” Grand Junction Field Manager Catherine Robertson said. “It’s a relationship built on reciprocity that benefits everyone involved.”

The BLM’s multiple-use mission is accomplished by managing many activities, including military training, energy and mineral development, outdoor recreation and livestock grazing, and by conserving natural, historical, cultural and other resources on public lands. For additional information on this agreement, contact Tom Bargsten at (970) 244-3030.

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