BLM seeks public input on new mountain bike trail in San Juan County

FARMINGTON, N.M. — The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Farmington Field Office is considering the designation of a new mountain bike trail on public lands north of Kirtland, New Mexico.

San Juan County, in partnership with the BLM, is proposing a single-track recreational trail improvement project that will be designated for mountain bikes and Class I E-bikes. The BLM is considering the inclusion of Class I E-bikes to provide additional outdoor recreation opportunities for an emerging demographic that includes older or disabled riders.

The proposed project will utilize an existing social trail, adjusted with realignments to avoid identified resource impacts. The length of the trail will be approximately 10 miles and consist of two loops. The proposal also includes a trailhead/parking area adjacent to CR 6480, approximately 3.5 miles west of the intersection of CR 6480 and Hwy 170.

The public scoping period will be open Friday, May 3, 2024, through Friday, May 17, 2024. The BLM wants to hear from the public about concerns or issues to be considered in the Environmental Analysis, which will be conducted in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act.

Comments may be submitted online at https://eplanning.blm.gov/eplanning-ui/project/2032043/510. Additionally, an open house to share information and answer questions will be held on Friday, May 3, 2024, from 4 - 6 p.m., at the BLM Farmington Field Office, 6251 College Blvd. in Farmington, NM.

For more information, contact BLM Outdoor Recreation Specialist Doug McKim at dmckim@blm.gov.