BLM announces decision for Salida Trail System
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CANON CITY, Colo. – On March 13, the Bureau of Land Management Royal Gorge Field Office authorized nine miles of new, non-motorized routes to the Arkansas Hills and Methodist Mountain Trail System near Salida.
The BLM manages the popular trail system in partnership with Salida Mountain Trails, who are active in signing, mapping and maintaining the trails. The existing trails were designated in the 2006 Arkansas River Travel Management Plan.
“The local communities in the area really love these trails,” said Keith Berger, Royal Gorge Field Manager. “Adding new trails will enhance hiking, mountain biking and equestrian experiences for residents and visitors alike.”
The decision considered user conflicts, impacts to natural resources and illegal route proliferation. Annual winter closures will be implemented to protect wildlife. In 2015, recreation activities on BLM-managed lands generated $543 million and supported 4,625 jobs in Colorado.
To review the decision and its associated environmental documents, go to http://bit.ly/2nXDkAO. For more information about the trails and recreation opportunities in the area, contact Kalem Lenard at (719) 269-8538 or jlenard@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.