BLM accepting scoping comments on White-Nose Syndrome Adaptive Management Strategy and Environmental Assessment
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LAKEWOOD, Colo. – The Bureau of Land Management is seeking scoping comments, issues and management actions that should be considered in the BLM Colorado White-Nose Syndrome Adaptive Management Strategy and Environmental Assessment to prevent the spread of White-Nose Syndrome.
White-Nose Syndrome is a fungal disease that killed more than 5.5 million bats across the northeast and mid-Atlantic United States during the past six years and continues to spread westward unchecked. The fungus has not been discovered in Colorado, but its introduction is feared to have similar consequences.
BLM Colorado will start preparing an Environmental Assessment to reduce the opportunity for the spread of White-Nose Syndrome, while providing appropriate opportunities for recreation and scientific research.
“We’re asking the public to help us identify an appropriate range of alternatives for consideration in the Environmental Assessment,” said Bruce Rittenhouse, BLM Colorado Branch Chief of Natural Resources.
Public comments will be most helpful if received by April 26, 2013. The BLM plans to complete the preliminary Environmental Assessment in summer 2013.
Written comments must be submitted to Bruce Rittenhouse, BLM Colorado State Office, 2850 Youngfield Street, Lakewood, CO 80215. Comments may be submitted in person at the above address from 9 am to 4 pm, Monday through Friday, excluding holidays. Comments may also be sent via email to blm_co_wnscolorado@blm.gov.
Before including your address, phone number, e-mail address, or other personal identifying information in your comment, please be advised that your entire comment—including your personal identifying information—may be made publicly available at any time. While you can ask us in your comment to withhold from public review your personal identifying information, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so.
For more information, please contact Bruce Rittenhouse, BLM Colorado Branch Chief of Natural Resources, at 303-239-3804.
For more information about the fungus, including proper decontamination procedures visit: http://www.blm.gov/co/st/en/BLM_Programs/wildlife/White_nose_Syndrome.html
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.