The BLM is considering new rules that would allow for the temporary gated closure of public lands for grazing. Many members have emailed American Whitewater expresing concern that recreational access to public lands and rivers would be limited as a result of the proposed rule. We are looking for specific examples of locations where public access to America’s rivers may be closed due to the new rule. If you are aware of a river access point that may be closed, please contact Jason Robertson at Jason@awa.org.
Eastern States Office
7450 Boston Blvd.
Springfield, VA 22153
Attention: RIN 1004-AD42
WOComment@blm.gov
Dear Mr. Visser,
I am writing on behalf of American Whitewater’s membership in regard to the Notice of Intent for the proposed amendment to the BLM grazing administration regulations. American Whitewater is a national 501.c.3 non-profit dedicated to river conservation, safety, and protection of public access opportunities. We have about 8000 members nationwide and represent an additional 80,000 canoers and kayakers through our affiliate clubs.
Our membership is interested in the grazing regulations since the proposed provisions authorizing the temporary locking of gates on public lands may restrict traditional recreational access to those public lands for canoeing, kayaking, rafting, and fishing.
If the BLM authorizes temporarily locked gates on public lands in order to protect private land and improve livestock operations, the agency should provide alternative access points to those same lands to mitigate for lost recreation opportunities.
Our members are concerned that roads and trails could be closed to recreational access on a semi-permanent basis unless the word “temporary” is narrowly defined in the regulation to avoid the perception or appearance of a “permanent” closure.
Please send a copy of the EIS to me for comment at the address listed above.
Sincerely,
Jason D. Robertson
Access Director
American Whitewater
March 18, 2003