BLM releases Uncompahgre Field Office Resource Management Plan
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MONTROSE, Colo. – Today, the Bureau of Land Management released its Proposed Resource Management Plan (RMP) and Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Uncompahgre Field Office. The proposed plan is expected to contribute approximately $2.5 billion in total economic output to the region, supporting up to 950 jobs over the next 20 years.
“We listened and took the public’s valuable input into account, which will help us move forward in a way that balances use, resources and conservation,” said Uncompahgre Field Manager Greg Larson. “This plan will continue BLM’s tradition of supporting the local economies while maintaining the quality of life and recreational opportunities we all enjoy.”
The Proposed RMP updates and combines the 1985 San Juan/San Miguel RMP and the 1989 Uncompahgre Basin RMP, guiding public land use on approximately 675,800 acres of BLM-managed surface lands and 971,220 acres of federal mineral estate in southwest Colorado. The plan includes elements of alternatives analyzed in the Draft RMP/EIS.
The anticipated economic benefits to the region come from energy and mineral development, primarily in natural gas development, grazing, and recreational opportunities from mountain biking to hunting that have made the area one of Colorado’s premier recreation destinations. Having a completed RMP allows future land use decisions to be more efficient and streamlined as industry, stakeholders, and recreational users continue to pursue opportunities on their public lands.
The Proposed RMP/Final EIS was published today in the Federal Register. The plan and its associated documents are available for review online at https://go.usa.gov/xnpgD.
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.