BLM seeks public comment, announces meeting on proposed withdrawal extension for Army’s McGregor Range
Event Description
LAS CRUCES, N.M. — The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) published a Federal Register notice on Sept. 27, 2024, to announce the filing of an application for an extension of the withdrawal for the Department of the Army’s McGregor Range located in Otero County, N.M. The announcement initiated a 90-day comment period and announced a public meeting.
Through the Military Lands Withdrawal Act of 1999, Congress withdrew McGregor Range from all forms of appropriation under the public land laws, including the mining, mineral leasing, and geothermal leasing laws, subject to valid existing rights, for 25 years, and reserved for the Army’s use. The Army is requesting an extension of the legislative withdrawal for an additional 25 years. The withdrawal will expire on Nov. 6, 2026, unless Congress approves the extension.
An extension of the withdrawal would allow the Army to have a safe and secure location to train military personnel and test equipment to meet nationally directed missions and requirements. The withdrawal extension would also ensure the Army has training areas of adequate size, configuration and distance to prepare soldiers for known and emerging threats, while engaging military capabilities.
The BLM and Army will host a virtual public meeting to discuss the application on Nov. 20 at 6 p.m. (Mountain Time). To register for the meeting, visit https://blm.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_0NWB3vqpSUuJzi955PHQpw.
Written comments should be sent to the BLM State Director, New Mexico State Office, 301 Dinosaur Trail, Santa Fe, N.M. 87508. Mailed comments must be post marked by Dec. 26, 2024.
For more information, contact BLM Project Manager Jillian Aragon at 505-635-9701.
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.