BLM seeks public comment on proposed improvements to Table Mesa Recreation Area
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NOTE: The public comment period has been extended by 15 days. The comment period now closes on Sept. 15.
PHOENIX – The Bureau of Land Management’s Hassayampa Field Office seeks public comment on proposed recreational enhancements to the Table Mesa Recreation Area north of Phoenix. A 30-day comment period begins today. The purpose of the planning effort is to identify appropriate recreational uses in specific areas to avoid user conflict, ensure visitor safety, and protect natural and cultural resources in conformance with laws and land use plans. Proposed improvements include developed recreational target shooting areas, camping areas, interpretive sites and non-motorized trails.
“We hope that Table Mesa will become a premier recreation destination in the Phoenix area,” said Phoenix District Manager Leon Thomas. “We’re seeking public input on proposed improvements to the area that will improve recreational opportunities for area residents and visitors.”
The Table Mesa planning area includes about 11,500 acres of BLM-managed public land with an option to include up to 15,000 acres. The area is on the west side of Interstate 17 between New River and Black Canyon City. In 2010, the BLM approved a recreation and travel management plan for Table Mesa that designated an 85-mile travel network of roads and trails. That plan also identified primitive camping areas and buffer zones for recreational target shooting away from roads and recreation facilities. This newest plan reviews and updates the recreation features of the 2010 plan. The travel management portion of the 2010 plan remains in effect and was not evaluated under this project.
The BLM strives to balance appropriate recreational opportunities, such as recreational target shooting, hiking, mountain biking, camping, off-highway vehicle use, equestrian use and more. Public lands also support economic uses such as grazing, mining and energy infrastructure.
The BLM invites the public to provide input on the alternatives identified in the environmental assessment. You can find information about the project and a comment input form at the BLM’s National NEPA Register. You may also submit comments by email to BLM_AZ_HFO_TableMesaEA@blm.gov or mail to Hassayampa Field Office, ATTN: Table Mesa EA, 2020 E. Bell Road, Phoenix, AZ 85022. We must receive your comments by August 31. [Extended to Sept. 15]
After the 30-day comment period, staff will review substantive comments and develop a final environmental assessment and finding of no significant impact.
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.