BLM seeks input on proposed temporary closures for construction and maintenance of recreational shooting sports sites
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PHOENIX – The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Phoenix District Office announces a 30-day public comment period on proposed temporary closures of public lands for the construction and maintenance of sites that are part of the Recreational Shooting Sports Project. All temporary closures proposed are intended to provide for the safety of workers and the public.
The project consists of five sites, including Baldy Mountain, Narramore Road, Church Camp Road, and Saddleback Mountain sites located in Maricopa County and Box Canyon site located in Pinal County. At sites where there is active recreational shooting use, temporary construction closures would be implemented and would last up to 180 days. At all five sites, recurring closures for maintenance would, to the extent feasible, be implemented during low-use times.
A Notice of Temporary Closure of Selected Public Lands was published in the Federal Register today and is available along with maps and other information on the project website. The BLM is taking public comments regarding the impact of these temporary closures on fishing, hunting, and recreational shooting use. This 30-day public comment period ends on April 20, 2020.
No later than 30 days prior to construction for each site, the BLM would post the closure notice and affected area map at access points to each site. Copies of this information are available at the BLM Phoenix District Office, 21605 N. 7th Avenue, Phoenix.
Under the John D. Dingell Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act (Public Law 116-9), the BLM is required to provide a 30-day public comment period when a proposed temporary closure would impact fishing, hunting, and recreational shooting. If construction exceeds 180 days, the BLM would be required to post another notice and conduct an additional 30-day comment period.
This project will provide more active management of recreational shooting sports in order to provide enhanced access for recreational shooting while also ensuring public safety, stewardship of natural resources, and protecting critical telecommunications and energy infrastructure.
For further information, contact Tyler Lindsey at the Phoenix District Office or by phone at 623-580-5500.
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.