BLM Tres Rios Field Office approves gravel pit expansion near Durango
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DURANGO, Colo. – The Bureau of Land Management’s Tres Rios Field Office today approved C&J Gravel’s proposal to expand the Montoya Gravel Pit in the Grandview area near Durango.
The expansion allows the operator to continue producing gravel for local public infrastructure, commercial construction and residential homeowner projects.
Today’s decision also entails re-routing portions of existing mountain bike trails in the Sale Barn area and authorizes the operator to construct a new bike “skills” trail as part of final reclamation in the exiting pit. The trail will incorporate topographical features such as side slopes and hills to provide a variety of challenges for mountain bikers.
“We appreciate C&J Gravel’s efforts to help us ensure high quality recreational opportunities in the area as they expand their operation,” said Connie Clementson, BLM Tres Rios Field Manager.
The gravel pit first began operating on private property, and in 1991 expanded onto BLM-managed lands in response to growing local and regional demand. Gravel mined from the Montoya site is used locally to improve roads and to provide decorative rock for homeowners.
The BLM supports working landscapes across the West through its many programs. Projected sales from the expansion is expected to generate annual revenues of around $139,000 to the State of Colorado and $96,000 to La Plata County.
To learn more about the project, go to https://go.usa.gov/xnXhp.
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.