BLM evaluating camping opportunities in Rabbit Valley
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GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. – The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Grand Junction Field Office is seeking the public’s input on a proposal to improve camping opportunities in Rabbit Valley.
The BLM prepared a preliminary environmental assessment analyzing new camping facilities and providing additional camping opportunities while protecting the natural, cultural and recreation resources in Rabbit Valley.
“Rabbit Valley is a popular recreation area for locals and visitors, and the demand for camping has grown,” said Collin Ewing, McInnis Canyon National Conservation Area Manager. “Current campgrounds and campsites weren’t designed for large recreational vehicles and trailers that visitors bring for activities like ATV riding, dirt biking, mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding. The BLM is considering how to improve recreation opportunities for everyone.”
Currently there are three developed campgrounds with 19 campsites for car and tent camping in Rabbit Valley. The proposal considers establishing two new campgrounds and a new parking area and expanding an existing campground. In total, 72 campsites would accommodate a mix of tents, trailers and vehicles. The proposal would allow camping exclusively in these areas. If approved, dispersed camping in Rabbit Valley would not be available after the campgrounds are constructed.
“The City of Fruita has been working closely with the BLM to improve recreational opportunities for both residents and visitors alike,” said Ture Nycum, City of Fruita Parks and Recreation Director. “We encourage the public to provide feedback to the BLM on improving camping opportunities in the area.”
The 30-day public comment period opens today, April 18, 2019. The public is encouraged to review the preliminary environmental assessment at https://go.usa.gov/xUaYu. Comments are most helpful if received by May 17, 2019, via mail to the BLM Grand Junction Field Office, 2815 H Rd, Grand Junction, CO 81506, email at BLM_CO_GJ_public_comments@blm.
Before including your address, phone number, e-mail address, or other personal identifying information in your comment, you should be aware 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 your personal identifying information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so.
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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.