BLM proposes changes to sage-grouse bi-state plan

The Bureau of Land Management has announced an opportunity to comment on potential changes to the Proposed Plan as set forth in the Greater Sage Grouse Bi-State Distinct Population Segment (BSSG) Forest Plan Amendment/Final Environmental Impact Statement.

The United States Forest Service was the lead agency for preparing the environmental impact statement (EIS) and land use plan amendment (LUPA). The BLM, a cooperating agency, is proposing to amend the Carson City District Office Consolidated Resource Management Plan (RMP) and the Tonopah Field Office RMP based on the analysis in this EIS. Public comments will be accepted through Dec. 14.

Following release of the Final EIS and Proposed Plan, the BLM determined based on protests received and additional internal reviews that additional changes to and a clarification of the Proposed Plan was required. The clarification and changes include setting disturbance caps within BSSG habitat, adjusting buffers for tall structures near active or pending leks, adding a restriction for new high-voltage transmission lines and additional management direction for habitat connectivity. The environmental consequences of the proposed changes and clarification have been analyzed as part of the EIS/LUPA process.

The BLM has determined, however, that these proposed changes must be released for additional public comment. After considering any public comments on these proposed changes, BLM will issue a Record of Decision (ROD) for the Nevada and California BSSG amending the Carson City Field Office Consolidated Resource Management Plan (RMP) and the Tonopah Field Office RMP.

Comments must be limited to the changes and clarification proposed. BLM will consider the comments received prior to issuing a final ROD and RMP Amendment for public lands in the Carson City District and the Tonopah Field Office.

Comments may be submitted by any of the following methods:

email: blm_nv_ccdowebmail@blm.gov

Fax: (775) 885-6147

Mail: BLM Carson City District, 5665 Morgan Mill Rd., Carson City, NV 89701, Attn: Colleen Sievers, Project Manager.