The BLM extends withdrawal for protection of the historic town of Rhyolite
Extension of the withdrawal will protect and preserve significant cultural and recreational resources in the historic town of Rhyolite, Nevada
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Nye County, NV. — The Bureau of Land Management today announced publication of a Public Land Order that extends the withdrawal of public lands in the historic town of Rhyolite for another 20 years. Extension of the withdrawal supports BLM management of 277.05 acres of public lands for the protection of Rhyolite historic site.
“Rhyolite is a popular historic interpretation and sight-seeing destination for U.S. and international tourists,” said Tonopah Field Manager Perry Wickham. “It has received over 1,756,506 visitors since 2022.”
The BLM continues to manage the public lands withdrawn originally under PLO No. 7566 for the purpose of protecting cultural and recreational resources at the Rhyolite historic site. One of the most prominent features is the train depot, built in 1906. The BLM's acquisition of lands at Rhyolite in 2000 allows for management of the town site for historic interpretation and recreation.
The action follows a Notice of Proposed Withdrawal Extension that was published in the Federal Register on December 19, 2022, followed by a 90-day public comment period. The BLM received one letter during the comment period, from the Town of Beatty in support of the withdrawal extension.
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.