by

Chris Pipkin, GJ BLM

James Solomon, COHVCO

March 2012

The Draft RMP for the GJ FO BLM office is due out this September.

 The Draft RMP is currently going through the internal review process and should be available for public comment by September 2012.  The public will have a 90 day window in which to make comments based on the alternatives that the BLM has presented.  This will be an important time for maximum involvement from the motorized recreation community.

Grand Valley Trails Alliance is becoming a reality:

The mission of this organization is to support, enhance and sustain a world-class multiple-use trail network in western Colorado’s Grand Valley by facilitating trail planning, education, construction, maintenance and management between trail user groups, communities, and land managers.

This newly formed alliance will represent all recreation users of our public lands:  Bike, Hike, Horse, and Motorized.  For more information on this alliance go to www.gvtrails.com

North Fruita Desert Update:

Frank Lillo (Bookcliff Rattlers) and Mike Jones (BLM)  have teamed up to map a preferred motorcycle trail in the area between 18 Rd and 21 Rd.  This area will include a staging area and kiosk with signed trails.  The BLM is asking for volunteers to help with this trail completion and trail signage.  Contact Mike Jones @ GJ BLM  [email protected]

Single Track trail, top of Bookcliffs between Hunter Canyon and 16 Rd.  This will be a multi-use single track trail.  NEPA should be completed this Spring.  Volunteers will be needed for trail construction.  Contact Mike Jones (GJ BLM).

Bangs Canyon Update:

Project consists of additional Rock Crawling area for the Jeeps, additional ATV trail, and 11 miles of new single track.  NEPA should be completed by this Spring and work to begin shortly after.  Volunteer help will be needed for these projects.  Contact Dan Gourley GJ BLM [email protected]

DeBeque Castle Rock Trail:

The cultural surveys have been completed for this area and the plant survey will be completed early this Spring.

Trail Stewardship Program:

The BLM is in the process of developing a trail stewardship program that will involve volunteers from the motorized recreation area.  The Stewardship program will be designed to include:

• Trail monitoring and assessment of needs.
• Provide information and education for users
• Recruit volunteers for trail construction and maintenance.

If  you are interested in volunteering for this program, contact James Solomon at  [email protected]