BLM seeks input on protections for Coconino National Forest’s Oak Creek Canyon

PHOENIX — The Bureau of Land Management is announcing a public comment period and a public meeting on a proposal from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service to protect more than 10,000 acres of land in the Coconino National Forest by withdrawing them for 20 years from new mining claims, subject to valid existing rights. 

If approved, the withdrawal would protect recreational, cultural, and natural resources on public lands along Oak Creek near Sedona. The proposal includes lands previously protected by the now expired Public Land Order 7387. 

Oak Creek Canyon contains high biological diversity due to year-round water flows and lush riparian vegetation that provides habitat for special status wildlife species and sensitive plants. The area is home to chaparral, pinyon, juniper, ponderosa pine, Gambel oak, and mixed conifer woodlands and forests. Colorful rock formations and accessible waters make the canyon one of the most popular recreation areas in Arizona, with an estimated 1.5 million annual visitors. 

A Notice of Withdrawal Application and Public Meeting published in today’s Federal Register to open the public comment period. Comments can be emailed to BLM_AZ_Withdrawal_Comments@blm.gov (preferred) or delivered to: Mike Ouellett, BLM Arizona State Office, 1 N Central Ave, Suite 800, Phoenix, AZ 85004. The comment period will close Oct. 22. 

For more information, please contact Chris Wonderly at jwonderly@blm.gov or 602-818-8295.