BLM and USFS begin scoping for proposed Vegetation Management
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CAÑON CITY, Colo. – The Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service are seeking public input on proposed vegetation management in Chaffee and Lake counties. The proposed management would restore, maintain and enhance vegetative conditions through various treatment methods including the use of mechanical and hand tools, and prescribed fire.
The proposal is for lands managed by the BLM’s Royal Gorge Field Office and the San Isabel National Forest. The agencies will prepare a joint environmental assessment that will take into account public comments and address various vegetation treatment methods.
Details, maps and photos associated with the proposed projects can be found online at:www.blm.gov/co/st/en/fo/rgfo.html under the “NEPA Projects” heading or by visiting the BLM Royal Gorge Field Office at 3028 East Main, Cañon City, Colorado.
Comments may be submitted by May 15 via e-mail at RGFO_Comments@blm.gov or in writing to the BLM Royal Gorge Field Office, Attn: Vegetation Management, 3028 East Main, Cañon City, CO 81212. The most useful comments refer to a specific area or treatment option outlined in the proposed action.
Before submitting written comments regarding this NEPA action, be advised that your entire comment—including personally identifiable information (such as your address, phone number, and e-mail address)—may be made publicly available at any time. While you can request that your personally identifiable information be withheld from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so.
Vegetation manipulation projects can lessen wildfire intensity, improve wildlife habitat and range conditions, and improve forest health. Those areas proposed for treatment include piñon, juniper, lodgepole and ponderosa pine forests.
For more information, contact Matt Rustand, BLM Wildlife Biologist at 719-269-8520 ormrustand@blm.gov .
The BLM manages nearly 150,000 acres in Chaffee County and more than 25,000 acres in Lake County. These public lands are managed for multiple uses, including wildlife habitat, recreation and forest health.
The BLM manages more than 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.