BLM approves Sutey Ranch Plan to Increase Recreational Access to Public Lands
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SILT, Colo. – The Bureau of Land Management announced today that it has approved the final plan for managing the Sutey Ranch and Haines parcels in the Roaring Fork Valley.
The BLM acquired the 557-acre Sutey Ranch and the 112-acre Haines Parcel in Pitkin County in 2017 through the Sutey Ranch Land Exchange, an effort to increase access to public lands. The final approved plan is the result of close coordination with a number of stakeholders and multiple opportunities for public involvement. The BLM strives to be a good neighbor in the communities it serves.
“Today’s decision by the BLM demonstrates our commitment to expanding public access for recreational opportunities on public lands,” said Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt. “The close collaboration with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to emphasize wildlife habitat on the Sutey Ranch parcel exemplifies the effectiveness of working together toward a shared conservation stewardship.”
Under the plan for the Sutey parcel, the BLM will maintain irrigated fields to provide critical forage for big game and allow public access between April 16 and November 30 to reduce disturbance to wildlife in the winter. The plan guides subsequent implementation decisions that will address development of equestrian parking facilities, designated trail locations, and a mountain bike access route to the adjacent Red Hill Special Recreation Management Area.
The Haines Parcel becomes part of The Crown Special Recreation Management Area focusing on mountain bike recreation. The existing seven-mile trail system the BLM designated in February 2018 will be carried forward.
“This final plan emphasizes public access balanced with seasonal protections for wintering concentrations of wildlife,” said BLM Colorado State Director Jamie Connell. “We appreciate the many people who contributed their thoughts and ideas for this plan.”
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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.