BLM seeks input on proposed Black Canyon Corridor Travel Management Plan
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PHOENIX – The Bureau of Land Management’s Hassayampa Field Office has released a draft environmental assessment for public comment on the proposed Black Canyon Corridor Travel Management Plan. The plan would designate a travel route system north of the Phoenix metropolitan area.
The plan analyzed three travel management areas across a total of 166,165 acres, most of which are in Yavapai County. The southern portion of the project area extends into Maricopa County. These areas include the communities of Black Canyon City, Dewey-Humboldt, Mayer, and New River.
“Growing communities in the greater Phoenix area means there is increased demand for outdoor recreation,” said Phoenix District Manager Leon Thomas. “It’s important for the BLM to conduct proactive planning to enable a variety of public lands uses while conserving the outdoor environment that we all enjoy.”
A 30-day public comment period begins today. Interested parties may review the draft environmental assessment and submit comments online via the BLM National NEPA Register. Public comments will be accepted until August 5.
The BLM’s travel management planning efforts aim to provide reasonable and varied transportation routes and areas for a wide variety of both motorized and non-motorized recreational activities. The BLM conducted initial analysis under the National Environmental Policy Act between 2016 and 2018.
During the public planning process, the BLM identified and evaluated routes in the travel management areas. The proposed plan designates a route system with a mix of motorized and non-motorized use while providing for resource protection. The proposed route system would allow for a variety of recreational activities by increasing the miles allowed for non-motorized activities such as hiking, equestrian, bicycling, and backpacking. There would be a decrease in miles designated as open to all use through the elimination of redundant routes and routes through riparian areas and washes in the interest of public safety and conservation of riparian habitat. Non-designated routes would be naturally reclaimed.
Analysis included public scoping, stakeholder outreach, open houses, and public comment periods. The plan was developed thanks to collaborative efforts with user groups, local and county governments, and state agencies.
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.