BLM Signs Decision Record Finalizing the Ridgway Comprehensive Travel Management Plan
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MONTROSE, Colo. – The Bureau of Land Management’s Uncompahgre Field Office signed a Decision Record completing the environmental analysis for the Ridgway Comprehensive Travel Management Plan Environmental Assessment. The decision features an inter-connecting trail system and two parking area/staging areas on public lands about two miles northeast of Ridgway, Colo.
“The newly designated route system allows for travel on routes that are identified on travel maps and routes on the ground,” said Barb Sharrow, BLM Uncompahgre field manager.
This Comprehensive Travel Management Plan also allows land managers to maintain resources while allowing the public to enjoy the land. The Decision Record delineates travel modes as well as 2.4 miles of routes open to full sized 4WD/2WD vehicles only and 18.3 miles of non-motorized routes.
The non-motorized routes feature 16.8 miles of Non-Motorized Single-Track travel for hiking, horseback riding and mechanized use; .4 miles of Single Track routes for hiking only, .9 miles of Mechanized Single Track for mechanized and hiking only; and .2 miles in Non-Motorized Single Track and Administrative Use travel for hiking, horseback riding, mechanized use and full size motorized administrative use.
Additionally, all routes within the Ridgway Travel Management Area will close to all modes of travel (including equestrian and foot) from December 1 to April 30 to prevent disturbance to wintering big game.
“We appreciate the public’s patience as we completed the Environmental Assessment for the Ridgway trails system northeast of town,” said Sharrow. “As we prepare to implement the plan, we will work with the Town of Ridgeway, Ouray Count, and the trail users groups to set up volunteer trail building and trail maintenance days.”
To review the environmental documents and maps associated with the Decision Record, go to http://www.blm.gov/co/st/en/BLM_Information/nepa/ufo.html.
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.