BLM releases supplemental analysis of land purchase, seeks public input
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CASPER, Wyo. – The Bureau of Land Management Casper Field Office is seeking public input on a preliminary environmental assessment (EA) that provides supplemental analysis to the Marton Ranch Acquisition EA completed in May 2022. The 21-day public comment period closes May 12.
The supplemental analysis responds to an October 2022 settlement agreement between the State of Wyoming and BLM. As part of the settlement, BLM agreed to conduct additional analysis of resource issues raised by the State of Wyoming in its appeal of the BLM’s decision. Resources or issues identified for further inspection include aquatic invasive species, fisheries, and recreational setting. The preliminary EA does not consider future decisions regarding potential uses of the land, but rather further evaluates the environmental impacts associated with BLM’s decision to purchase the land.
“At this point, we are looking for comments specific to the additional analysis and potential impacts that could result from the property changing from private to public hands,” says Ben Bigalke, Acting BLM Casper Field Office Manager. “The public and our partner agencies will substantially contribute to the future management of the property during land use planning process, which we plan to undertake in the near future.”
Comments will be accepted by email, in writing or through the BLM’s ePlanning website linked below. To review the preliminary EA or to submit comments, visit https://eplanning.blm.gov/eplanning-ui/project/2018049/510. Hardcopy comments can be mailed or hand delivered to the BLM Casper Field Office, Attn: Mike Robinson, 2987 Prospector Dr., Casper, WY 82604. Emailed comments can be sent to m75robin@blm.gov.
The BLM issued the original Marton Ranch EA and its decision to purchase the 36,000-acre property in May 2022. In June 2022, the State of Wyoming appealed the BLM’s decision with the Interior Board of Land Appeals (IBLA). The BLM and the State reached an agreement on October 21, 2022, with the IBLA issuing an order to set aside and remand the BLM’s decision in order for the BLM to re-analyze its decision, provide additional opportunities for public notice and comment, and supplement its environmental analysis.
For more information, please call the Casper Field Office at (307) 261-7600.
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.