BLM Asks Climbers to Protect Bighorn Sheep in Southern Utah
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MOAB, Utah — The Bureau of Land Management is urging climbers to voluntarily avoid rock climbing in Long Canyon from April 1 to June 15 to help protect desert bighorn sheep during a critical time in their reproductive cycle. Climbing areas affected include all developed and undeveloped crags within Long Canyon, including Maverick Buttress and Reptilian Wall.
Utah’s Canyon Country is home to iconic wildlife species, including desert bighorn sheep, golden eagles, and other canyon-dwelling animals. Many of these species are sensitive to human-caused disturbances and tend to seek remote areas to raise their young. Long Canyon is a prime example of irreplaceable wildlife habitat, serving as an essential refuge for these species.
Spring and early summer are particularly sensitive periods for pregnant ewes and newborn lambs. This critical time encompasses the end of a ewe’s pregnancy and the first few weeks of the lamb’s life. Human activity can cause stress to these animals, forcing them to abandon preferred habitat, which can impact the survival of their young.
To help minimize disturbances, the BLM asks climbers to seek alternative routes during this window. Long Canyon provides vital “escape terrain” for bighorn sheep, allowing them to evade predators by navigating steep, rocky landscapes. Avoiding these areas ensures that ewes and lambs can remain undisturbed in their natural habitat.
For more information, please contact the BLM Moab Field Office at blm.ut.mb.mail@blm.gov, or call 435-259-2100.
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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.