BLM seeks input for proposed historic properties protection
CEDAR CITY, Utah – The Bureau of Land Management is seeking public comments on the proposed Gold Springs Historic Property Protection Environmental Assessment. The project aims to stabilize and restore the Gold Springs historic mining townsite as well as conduct hazardous fuels treatments around structures and throughout surrounding woodlands and ponderosa pine stands to reduce risk of loss.
Proposed protection actions include:
Stabilizing standing structures and completing a feasibility study to determine rehabilitation actions and costs.
Remove hazardous fuels surrounding standing and toppled structures within the townsite.
Reduce fuel loading by completing approximately 450 acres of vegetation treatments within the 1,176-acre footprint.
The Gold Springs Mining District is a historically significant site established in the late 19th century as a center of gold and silver production. Once containing more than 20 structures and supporting infrastructure such as a post office, hotel, and telephone system, the district was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. Due to natural deterioration, human-caused damage, and increased wildfire risk, only two standing structures remain today. Without proactive stabilization and fuels reduction, these remaining resources face a high risk of loss—similar to that experienced by the nearby Stateline stamp mill, which was destroyed during a 2020 wildfire.
This proposed project is part of a broader, district-wide commitment to proactive wildfire risk reduction—combining historic preservation with strategic fuels treatments to protect both cultural heritage and ecosystem health across southern Utah.
A 30-day public comment period begins today, during which comments can be submitted until Aug. 6, 2025, through the BLM National NEPA Register.
For further information, please contact the Color Country and Paria River District Fuels planning and environmental specialist at 435-865-3000.
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.