BLM seeks public comments on proposed rule for Tres Rios and Gunnison field offices
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MONTROSE, Colo. – The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is seeking public comments on a proposed supplementary rule affecting motorized and non-motorized vehicle use, day-use areas, seasonal wildlife habitat, and camping on public lands in the Tres Rios Field Office and the Silverton area of Gunnison Field Office. The rule restricts certain activities, defines allowable uses in special management areas, provides for visitor health and safety, and protects wildlife, natural, and cultural resources on BLM-managed lands in Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, Dolores, San Miguel, Montrose, Gunnison, San Juan, Ouray, and Hinsdale counties, Colorado.
“The BLM works closely with the local communities we serve to develop land use plans with a shared vision for managing a wide range of resources and resource uses,” said BLM Southwest District Manager Stephanie McCormick. “The supplementary rule would allow the BLM to implement decisions that support the unique quality of life enjoyed by Southwest Colorado communities.”
The BLM has recorded growing visitation to southwest Colorado, which increases pressure on public land resources such as critical winter wildlife habitat, recreation destinations, and archaeological sites. The rule would implement and make enforceable decisions related to rules of conduct issued in the Tres Rios Field Office Resource Management Plan, the Tres Rios Field Office Transportation and Access Plan–Travel Area 1, the Dolores River Corridor Management Plan, the Alpine Triangle Recreation Area Management Plan, and the Silverton Travel Management Plan.
To review the proposed rule, visit https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2024-03732.pdf.
Written comments must be received by April 29, 2024 to be considered. Comments related to the Tres Rios Field Office should be directed to the BLM, Attn. Tyler Fouss, 29211 Highway 184, Dolores, CO 81323, or submitted electronically to tfouss@blm.gov. Comments related to the Gunnison Field Office should be directed to BLM, Attn. James Lovelace, 2500 E. New York Ave, Gunnison, CO 81230, or submitted electronically to jlovelac@blm.gov.
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.