The BLM implements public safety measures for annual King of the Hammers race
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BARSTOW, Calif. – The Bureau of Land Management will implement a temporary closure of public lands in the Johnson Valley Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Recreation Area in San Bernardino County from Jan. 31 – Feb. 8, to enhance public safety during the 2020 King of the Hammers desert races, which is authorized by a BLM Special Recreation Permit.
The temporary closure will comply with the management plan for the area, ensuring a minimum of three staging areas within the Johnson Valley OHV Recreation Area remain open to the public for both weekends of the temporary closure period. Registered race spectators, participants, and race officials are exempt from the closure.
A temporary closure is necessary to facilitate public safety and provide for an enhanced recreation experience for event participants and spectators. The public is reminded to cooperate with race officials and local law enforcement officers to help spectators and participants stay safe and ensure the success of the off-road races.
This desert race event attracts approximately 50,000 spectators during the nine-day period. Information on the King of the Hammers race event and a map of the closure area for the 2020 race event will be posted at the California Desert District Office, the Barstow Field Office and on the BLM website at least 30 days prior to the event.
As stewards, the BLM manages public lands for the benefit of current and future generations, supporting conservation in pursuit of its multiple-use mission. For more information, contact the California Desert District Office at (951) 697-5200, or the Barstow Field Office at (760) 252-6000.
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.