BLM begins public scoping to determine future management of recreational use at Table Mesa area
Organization:
BLM Office:
Media Contact:
PHOENIX – The Bureau of Land Management’s Hassayampa Field Office is starting a planning process to determine future management of recreational use of the Table Mesa area north of Phoenix. A 30-day scoping period begins today and ends February 3. The BLM will host a virtual scoping meeting to provide information and answer questions about the project and the planning process.
The Table Mesa area provides a variety of recreational opportunities within a short drive of the Phoenix metro area. The purpose of the planning process is to identify appropriate recreational uses in specific areas to avoid user conflict, ensure visitor safety, and protect natural and cultural resources in conformance with laws and land use plans.
The BLM strives to balance appropriate recreational opportunities, such as recreational target shooting, hiking, mountain biking, camping, off-highway vehicle use, equestrian, and more. Public lands are also used for economic uses such as grazing, mining, and energy infrastructure.
“We’re seeking public input on issues and conflicts related to camping, mountain biking, hiking, off-highway vehicle use, target shooting, and other recreational activities occurring in the area,” said Phoenix District Manager Leon Thomas. “We want to ensure ongoing access for these various recreational opportunities, while ensuring public safety and environmental stewardship.”
The planning area includes about 11,500 acres of BLM-administered public land with an option to include up to 15,000 acres. The area is on the west side of Interstate 17 between New River and Black Canyon City. In 2010, the BLM approved a recreation and travel management plan for Table Mesa that designated an 85-mile travel network of roads and trails. The plan also identified primitive camping areas and buffer zones for recreational target shooting away from roads and recreation facilities.
The public is invited to provide input on issues to consider and concerns related to the Table Mesa area. Information about the project and a comment input form is available at BLM’s National NEPA Register. Comments may also be submitted by email to BLM_AZ_HFO_TableMesaEA@blm.gov or via mail to Hassayampa Field Office, ATTN: Table Mesa Scoping, 2020 E. Bell Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85022. Comments must be received by February 3.
The BLM will host a virtual Zoom meeting to provide information about the project and how to participate in the planning process. The meeting is planned for Wednesday, January 18 at 5:30 p.m. Interested parties can register for the meeting online. The meeting will be recorded and posted on BLM Arizona’s YouTube page.
An environmental assessment will be prepared in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act, and opportunities for public review and comment will be available at various stages throughout the process. Once the environmental assessment is complete, a recreation area and supplementary rules for the area will be established.
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.