BLM seeks input on protections for rare plants and fossils at Mud Flat Oolite Site
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BOISE, Idaho—The Bureau of Land Management is seeking public comments on a proposed withdrawal that would protect 1,958 acres of public lands within the Mud Flat Oolite Site near the City of Grand View in Owyhee County. If approved, the withdrawal would protect rare plants and fossils in the area for 50 years from location and entry under the U.S. mining laws, but not from leasing under the mineral and geothermal leasing laws or disposal under the Mineral Materials Act of 1947.
The site is known for its unique geologic formations. Ooids (OO-ids), or tiny round pieces of limestone, are called oolite (“egg stone”) when deposited in larger formations. The site’s Shoofly oolite is one of the world’s largest freshwater oolites and provides a unique soil that supports a high density of rare plants, as well as fossils from the prehistoric Lake Idaho.
“Withdrawing these lands from mining activity is the best way to protect Idaho’s rare plants and fossils,” said BLM Boise Acting District Manager Jon Beck. “These protections will help preserve Idaho’s unique natural features that took millions of years to form.”
A Notice of Proposed Withdrawal and Opportunity for Public Meeting will publish in tomorrow’s Federal Register to open the public comment period and protect the lands from mining, subject to valid existing rights, for up to two years while BLM processes the withdrawal application.
Comments and requests for a public meeting may be emailed to BLM_ID_LLID933000_Withdrawal@blm.gov (preferred) or delivered to: BLM Idaho State Office, Attn: ID-933-Realty/Mud Flat Oolite Site Withdrawal, 1387 S. Vinnell Way, Boise, ID 83709. The comment period closes Nov. 4, 2024.
For more information, please contact Christine Sloand at csloand@blm.gov or 208-373-4000.
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.