BLM proposes renewed protections for Arapaho National Wildlife Refuge
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WALDEN, Colo. — The Bureau of Land Management is seeking public comments on a proposal to renew protections for 4,792 acres of public lands within the Arapaho National Wildlife Refuge. This withdrawal would continue to protect important wildlife habitat and recreation opportunities managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
The refuge supports diverse wildlife habitats, including sagebrush steppe uplands, grassland meadows, willow riparian areas, and wetlands. The 23,464-acre Refuge was established in 1967 primarily to provide suitable nesting and rearing habitat for migratory birds.
The proposed lands would remain reserved for management as part of the refuge and continue to be withdrawn from settlement, sale, location, or entry under the general land laws, including the United States mining laws, and from leasing under the mineral and geothermal leasing laws, subject to valid existing rights.
A Notice of Proposed Withdrawal has published in tomorrow’s Federal Register that will initially protect the land for two years, begin a 90-day public comment period, and announce an opportunity for a public meeting. The public may submit comments and requests for a public meeting on the proposed withdrawal until September 12, 2024. Comments may be emailed to blm_co_statedirector@blm.gov or delivered to Bureau of Land Management, Colorado, Attn: Jennifer Jardine, Arapaho NWR Withdrawal, P.O. Box 151029, Lakewood, CO 80215.
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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.