The BLM increases recreational access to sites in Washington State
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Spokane, Wash. – With the lifting of public health and safety restrictions enacted by Washington State officials, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) today announced that the Spokane District is increasing recreational access to sites in eastern Washington. The BLM is working across the country with federal, state, and local public health authorities to closely monitor the COVID-19 pandemic and using a phased approach to increase access on a case-by-case basis.
Beginning Wednesday, May 13, the following sites will reopen access to day use activities:
- Coffeepot Lake
- Lakeview Ranch
- Pacific Lake
- Rock Creek/Escure Ranch
- Twin Lakes
Earlier this month, the BLM had restored day-use access at additional sites.
With this week’s action, all BLM-maintained recreation sites in Washington are now accessible for day use. However, a return to full operations—including trash pickup and sanitation services—will continue to be phased, and services may be limited. With public health in mind, overnight camping remains closed at all developed campgrounds at this time. While these areas in Washington are now accessible for visitors to enjoy, the public should follow local area health orders, practice Leave No Trace principles, practice social distancing, and avoid high-risk outdoor activities while recreating.
The health and safety of our visitors, employees, volunteers, and partners continues to be paramount. At the Spokane District, our operational approach will be to examine each facility function and service provided to ensure those operations comply with current public health guidance, and to regularly monitor these. We continue to work closely with the Department of the Interior and follow CDC guidance to ensure public and employee spaces are safe and clean for visitors, employees, partners, and volunteers.
The BLM encourages responsible, local recreation to avoid putting strain on other communities. The CDC has offered guidance to help people recreating on public lands prevent the spread of infectious diseases. We will continue to monitor all functions to ensure that visitors adhere to CDC guidance for mitigating risks associated with the transmission of COVID-19 and take any additional steps necessary to protect public health.
Details and updates on operations will continue to be posted on our website and social media channels. Updates about BLM operations will be posted on www.blm.gov.
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.