BLM announces seasonal motorized closure at 3rd Street access in Dubois to protect bighorn sheep winter range
LANDER, Wyo. – The Bureau of Land Management Lander Field Office is reminding the public that the 3rd Street access in Dubois is closed to motorized vehicles from Dec. 1 through May 15 each year to help protect crucial winter range for bighorn sheep within an Area of Critical Environmental Concern.
Although the seasonal closure is longstanding, BLM staff have observed an increase in motorized vehicle use during the closure period in recent years. To improve compliance and reduce disturbance to wildlife during the winter months, the BLM will close and lock the access gate at the 3rd Street entrance during the seasonal closure.
“Winter is a sensitive time for wildlife,” said Brian Truax, BLM Wyoming Lander Assistant Field Manager. “We appreciate the community’s help in respecting seasonal closures that support healthy habitat and reduce stress on bighorn sheep during the winter.”
The BLM Lander Field Office has coordinated with local partners, including the Town of Dubois and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, and will continue to share timely information with the public. Motorized travel around the closed gate or beyond posted closure signs may result in a citation.
Members of the public are encouraged to plan ahead and use legal routes and open access points for non-motorized traffic during the closure period. Closure information is posted at the access point. Additionally, all BLM-Lander closures can be found at: www.blm.gov/sites/blm.gov/files/Lander_FO_PublicLandUserLimitations.pdf
For more information about accessing BLM public lands in the area, please contact the BLM Lander Field Office at 307-332-8400 or [email protected].
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The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.