BLM manages almost 600 BLM Wilderness Study Areas (WSAs) comprising more than 13.7
million acres in 12 western states, including Alaska. WSAs are managed for their wilderness qualities, but have not yet been given the special designation “Wilderness Area” by Congress. As in Congressionally designated Wilderness Areas, no roads or motorized/ mechanized vehicles are allowed in WSAs.
A special breed of volunteer supplements BLM’s on-the-ground presence in WSAs. WSA volunteers patrol the areas, conduct weekly maintenance of trailheads and campsites, and work at a wide array of other tasks. They must be able to find their way in the wilderness and hike long distances in rugged terrain, at high elevations, and in harsh weather. Their work is critical to BLM’s capability to preserve these lands as an irreplaceable legacy for future generations.
WSA volunteers come from all walks of life. For example, in 2006, the BLM-Grand Junction Field Office (GJFO) entered into an agreement with the family-owned Gateway Canyons Resort. The resort owners and staff are committed to helping both local residents and visitors enjoy, understand, and respect the scenic wonders of western Mesa County, Colorado.
GJFO’s partnership with Gateway Canyons is intended to enhance BLM’s ability to manage the 26,000-acre Palisade WSA, which lies 50 miles southwest of Grand Junction, near the resort. The resort has made an initial two-year commitment to act as a public land steward of the area. Volunteers provide written reports to BLM on patrol or project work that is performed in the WSA. BLM is responsible for educating and training the volunteers on Bureau policy, as well as facilitating all projects and patrol activities. Such an “Adopt-a-WSA” effort helps to connect local communities with their public lands while also expanding BLM’s field presence.
WSAs provide diverse opportunities for volunteers to help BLM preserve wilderness values. Volunteering in a WSA is a perfect fit for those with a passion for remote landscapes, beautiful scenery, unparalleled tranquility—and lots of hard work!
