BLM seeking comments on use of off-highway vehicle grant funds
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SUSANVILLE, Calif. —The Eagle Lake Field Office is seeking public input on management needs and projects that would benefit from grant funds for off-highway vehicle recreation management on public lands. Staff will use public comments or suggestions submitted by Monday, Feb. 14, to develop a preliminary grant application to the California State Parks Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division. The field office will submit its grant request on March 7.
“In past years we have used these grant funds to improve off-highway riding and driving opportunities for our communities and visitors,” said BLM Eagle Lake Field Manager Emily Ryan. “We always look forward to seeing suggestions from those who enjoy off-highway vehicle sports on public lands. This year we anticipate seeking funds to support law enforcement and on-the-ground management for the Fort Sage and Rice Canyon Off- Highway Vehicle areas, or other areas suggested during the public comment period.”
The California State Parks Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division is funding the planning efforts through an off-highway vehicle planning grant. The state program supports off-highway vehicle recreation in California by distributing more than $35 million annually collected from gas tax, entrance fees and off-highway vehicle sticker registrations. The program supports off-highway vehicle recreation in California by providing financial assistance to cities, counties, districts, federal agencies, state agencies, educational institutions, and federally recognized Native American Tribes and non-profit entities.
The public is invited to provide feedback to the BLM that will help identify new trails and redesign routes for better connectivity, find safer solutions for shared trails, provide greater public access, and offer a more enjoyable experience. Anyone interested can review and comment on the preliminary applications from March 8 to May 7 by visiting the grants section at https://ohv.parks.ca.gov.
Public comments or suggestions can be submitted by mail to the BLM Eagle Lake Field Office, 2550 Riverside Dr., Susanville, CA 96130, attention Marisa Williams, or by email to mbwillia@blm.gov. Additionally, stakeholders can contact Williams at the above address to request a meeting to discuss off-highway vehicle improvement needs on BLM-managed lands.
The BLM manages off-highway vehicle areas to provide outstanding, sustainable opportunities for recreation on trails designed to minimize impacts on natural resources. The agency works closely with stakeholders and communities in this effort.
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.