BLM: BLM Signs Decision Approving South Steptoe Travel Management Plan

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Ely District, Schell Field Office has issued the Decision Record and Finding of No Significant Impact for the South Steptoe Travel Management Plan, which designates routes for recreational use in south Steptoe Valley.  Route designations consider a wide range of public land uses while managing access to prevent long-term ecological damage.  Road designations range from open to limited, or closed.

The South Steptoe Travel Management Plan is the result of an extensive public process that included collaboration with the residents of White Pine County through the White Pine County travel management planning coalition and White Pine Coordinated Resource Management Steering Committee’s South Steptoe Technical Review Team (TRT).

“We thank the dedicated individuals who helped to shape this plan.  Their participation helps to ensure that White Pine County’s many and diverse outdoor recreation opportunities will be available for future generations,” BLM Schell Field Manager Mary D’Aversa said.

Coalition members included property owners, grazing permittees, hunting and non-hunting wildlife advocates, motorized and non-motorized recreationists, and members of the general public, as well as Native American interests, the City of Ely, White Pine County Sheriff’s Office and BLM.  The Northeastern Great Basin Resource Advisory Council, which advises BLM on public lands issues, was also represented.  South Steptoe TRT members represented area landowners, various user groups and other interested parties, and members of the general public, as well as the land management agencies. 

Maps of the travel management planning area are available online at www.blm.gov/nv.  Click on the Ely District map and then click on the South Steptoe Travel Management Plan listed “In the Spotlight.”  Print versions are available in Ely at the BLM Ely District Office, 702 North Industrial Way; Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, Ely Ranger District, 825 Ave. E; Sportsworld, 1500 Aultman Street; White Pine Chamber of Commerce, 636 Aultman Street; and White Pine County Library, 950 Campton Street.

For more information, contact Gus Malon, BLM Schell Field Office outdoor recreation planner, at (775) 289-1800.