BLM seeks public input on Cross Bar Transportation Management Plan
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NORMAN, Okla. – The Bureau of Land Management Oklahoma Field Office is taking public input on an environmental assessment of a proposed transportation network on about 12,000 acres of public land north of Amarillo, Texas. The newly released scientific analysis looks at potential direct, indirect, and cumulative effects associated with designating and maintaining the proposed system of motorized and nonmotorized routes and trails.
The Cross Bar Management Area Travel and Transportation Management Plan and alternatives were developed with public input on access and transportation needs for multiple land uses including hunting and other recreation opportunities.
“The plan will help BLM manage public lands to meet growing demands for land uses and associated access issues,” said Oklahoma Field Manager Robert Pawelek. “It will ensure the area will provide recreation and access opportunities for current and future generations.”
Interested parties may review the draft environmental assessment and submit comments online via https://eplanning.blm.gov/eplanning-ui/project/2024865/510. Comments can be submitted through ePlanning, mail, fax, email, or drop off at the BLM Oklahoma Field Office until Nov. 13, 2023.
Please reference “Draft EA TTMP for Cross Bar Management Area” in all correspondence and in the subject line of faxes or emails. Comments may be sent via mail or delivery to: Bureau of Land Management Oklahoma Field Office, Attn: Adrian Escobar, 801 South Fillmore, Suite 500, Amarillo, Texas 79101; via fax at 806-356-1041; or via email to aescobar@blm.gov.
The proposed travel management plan would designate routes to provide access for motorized and non-motorized travel, establish maintenance guidelines for the designated routes depending on the type of access, and identify use restrictions to protect resources, public safety, and avoid or minimize conflicts among users. The proposed plan would maintain access for multiple uses, including a variety of recreational activities such as hunting, hiking, horseback riding, bicycling, and camping.
The BLM will also host a public engagement on the draft environmental assessment on Nov. 8, from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at the Amarillo Downtown Public Library at 413 Southeast Fourth Ave., Amarillo, Texas 79101.
The 30-day public comment period closes Nov. 13, 2023. For further project-specific information, contact BLM Outdoor Recreation Planner Adrian Escobar at (806) 356-1008.
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.