BLM seeks input on proposed recreation improvements at Williams Hill Recreation Area
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MARINA, Calif. — The Bureau of Land Management Central Coast Field Office is seeking public input on a draft plan to improve the off-highway vehicle riding experience at the Williams Hill Recreation Area in southern Monterey County. The BLM has prepared this plan with support from the California State Parks’ Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Division, recognizing that nature and recreational opportunities on public land are essential to the health, well-being, and prosperity of every family and community in America. Public comments on the plan are welcomed through May 23 and will be used to shape the final plan for the recreation area.
Williams Hill Recreation Area currently provides off-highway vehicle recreational opportunities on 15 miles of roads and trails. The draft plan includes up to 21 miles of additional trails, which would provide opportunities to establish new loop routes that can accommodate more visitors and provide an enhanced recreational experience; expanding campground and staging facilities; and a training track for less experienced riders. The proposals include strategies to reduce unauthorized entry onto private lands.
“We are looking forward to hearing from the public and our partners as we seek ways to improve recreational opportunities at Williams Hill,” said Central Coast Field Manager Ben Blom. “By getting involved in this planning effort, we all can help shape the future management of this area.”
The BLM will host a virtual public meeting, via Zoom, from 5 to 6:30 p.m., May 11, to discuss the draft plan. The public must register in advance for this webinar to participate: https://tinyurl.com/2p8eumj4. Registrants will receive a link and phone number to join the meeting.
More information can be found on the project website at https://go.usa.gov/x6TWt. Written comments may be submitted electronically to BLM_CA_Web_CC@blm.gov, or by mail: BLM Central Coast Field Office, Attn: Williams Hill OHV Planning EA, 940 2nd Avenue, Marina, CA 93933.
Williams Hill encompasses approximately 8,500 acres of BLM-managed public lands ranging from gentle hills to mountainous terrain. The hilly terrain is characterized by impressive shale formations, offering visitors great views of the surrounding Salinas Valley. Camping, hiking and wildlife watching are popular activities in the BLM recreation area. Proper management of these resources keeps working public lands healthy and productive for current and future generations of Americans.
The BLM has received a planning grant to support this project from the California State Parks’ Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Grants and Cooperative Agreements Program, which supports well-managed recreation in California by distributing more than $35 million annually collected from gas tax, entrance fees and off-highway vehicle sticker registrations.
To learn more, visit online at www.blm.gov/visit/williams-hill. For specific questions, contact the Central Coast Field Office at 831-582-2200. Please contact us for reasonable accommodations to participate.
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.