BLM Seeks Public Comment on Communication Site Plan

Organization:

BLM

Media Contact:

Kyle Sullivan, Public Affairs Specialist

MONTE VISTA, Colo. – The Bureau of Land Management San Luis Valley Field Office is seeking public comments on an application to construct and operate a telecommunications site on Baxter Mountain adjacent to the town of South Fork.

The applicant, Viaero Wireless, is proposing a 150-foot-high telecommunications tower, a 10 foot by 20 foot electronics building, a backup generator, and a transmission line extension.

The BLM is evaluating Viaero’s application to issue a Communications Use Lease through a Right-of-Way Grant under the Federal Land Policy and Management Act and will prepare an Environmental Assessment to evaluate any associated environmental impacts.

The public scoping period is designed to help the BLM understand the nature and range of issues to be addressed in the EA, including alternatives. Comments concerning the proposed action, alternatives and identification of environmental issues are most helpful. Comments must be received before July 7, 2014 to be considered for inclusion in the public record. Please send comments by mail to:

Leon Montoya
1803 West Highway 160
Monte Vista, CO 81144

The BLM will host a public scoping meeting in an open house format from 5 – 7 p.m. on June 18 at the South Fork Community Building, 254 Colorado 149, South Fork, CO 81154.

For additional information, contact Leon Montoya at 719-852-6219 at the BLM Monte Vista office.


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.