BLM seeks input on planned restoration projects

MOAB, Utah – The Bureau of Land Management is seeking initial public comments to inform planned aquatic and riparian habitat restoration activities on public lands administered by the Moab Field Office.

The BLM is proposing to increase the pace and scale of restoration projects, such as constructing beaver dam analogs that can improve riparian habitat and help keep water on the landscape. This work is needed because in-stream features, including wood accumulations and beaver dams, were regularly removed from the late 1800s to mid-1900s, resulting in streams disconnected from floodplains, increased erosion, and reduced water flows, leaving lasting impacts on the landscape today.

“This analysis will increase BLM's efficiency and ability to work with our partners to meet common goals of restoring aquatic ecosystems to benefit aquatic species, aquatic habitats, and the public,” said Cassie Mellon, fisheries and riparian lead, BLM Utah Aquatic Resources Program.

Proposed activities would occur on streams, floodplains, and riparian habitats across the planning area. The scope of actions being considered include:

• Constructing in-stream and floodplain enhancements, including the addition of structural elements (i.e., artificial beaver dams and wood accumulations built from locally harvested woody plant material);
• Applying erosion control techniques to prevent features from moving into and degrading otherwise healthy riparian-wetland habitat; and  
• Minimizing beaver activity around infrastructure or other sensitive areas by protecting sensitive trees and applying culvert barriers and flood control measures.

More information on this project is at the BLM National NEPA Register where comments may be submitted through the “Participate Now” option until Jan. 15, 2025. For additional information on this project, please contact Gabriel J. Bissonette, Project Lead, at gbissone@blm.gov or (435) 259-2188.