Input needed on BLM trail planning at Johnny Behind the Rocks
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LANDER, Wyo. – The Bureau of Land Management has released an environmental assessment that analyzes the Johnny Behind the Rocks (JBR) Master Trails Plan, beginning a 30-day public comment period. Master trails planning at JBR supports the recreation facet of the BLM’s multiple-use mission and will increase access to public lands.
The 2014 Lander Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan (RMP) directs the BLM to increase and improve non-motorized recreation opportunities at JBR. Specifically, the RMP calls for the addition of sufficient trails to support a full-day of ride time.
"We received extensive public comment about Johnny Behind the Rocks during our land use planning process," said BLM Outdoor Recreation Planner Jared Oakleaf. “In response, the RMP identified the area for a community-based trail system and this master trails plan is the next step in implementing this objective.”
The master trails planning process began in 2017 by partnering with International Mountain Bike Association Trail Solutions to develop a conceptual trails plan for the area. Public input received on the conceptual trails plan was incorporated into the environmental assessment.
On June 7, the U.S. Secretary of the Interior announced the withdrawal of 4,821 acres of public land at JBR from mining. This ensures the protection of the current and future trail system as well as important cultural resources.
The environmental assessment is available for comment through July 12, 2018, at https://go.usa.gov/xQFCr. Comments may be emailed to joakleaf@blm.gov. Please include “JBR” in the subject line to ensure proper processing of your comment.
When including personal identifying information with your comment, such as address, phone number or email address, be advised that it may be made publicly available at any time. The BLM cannot guarantee to withhold personal identifying information from public review.
For more information contact Oakleaf at 307-332-8400 or joakleaf@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.