February 6, 2006
Contact: Lesley A. Collins
307-261-7603

Buffalo BLM Issues Decision Record and FONSI for Welch Management EA

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Buffalo Field Office completed a management plan and environmental analysis (EA), for the Welch Management Area (WMA) in Sheridan County. After considering public comments, a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) was reached for the Welch Management Plan.

The area encompasses 1,770 acres, 9 miles north of Sheridan and adjacent to the Tongue River. Following a 30-day public comment period, Buffalo Field Manager, Chris Hanson chose alternative two.

According to Hanson, the preferred alternative includes the following actions:

• Livestock will be managed through a deferred rotation grazing system promoting sustainable and diverse vegetation.
• WMA will be available for mineral development; however other resource objectives shall take priority.
• Non-motorized forms of recreation will be emphasized.
• Vegetation resources will be managed for natural diversity.
• Wildlife habitat will be managed to improve biological diversity, forage, and habitat quality in support of Wyoming Game and Fish Department population objectives while providing for special status species.
• Riparian areas will be improved.

For further information or questions call the Buffalo Field Office at 307-684-1100. The document is available on line at www.wy.blm.gov/bfo.

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