How will the Owyhee Initiative Implementation Act affect access to public lands?
In addition to the 517,000 acres of wilderness and over 316 miles of rivers as wild and scenic rivers that will be protected in perpetuity for future generations, the legislation authorizes acquisition of seven public rights-of-way across private lands. These rights-of-way would provide access to significant federal lands that were previously difficult to reach because they were surrounded by private parcels. As mentioned above, the legislation directs the BLM to develop and implement transportation plans for public lands outside wilderness areas. The plans are to establish a system of designated roads and trails and limit motorized and mechanized vehicles to designated routes. Until the date that the BLM completes the transportation plans, all recreational motorized and mechanized vehicle use shall be limited to roads and trails in existence before the date of this act, i.e. cross-country travel is prohibited. The BLM is to complete a travel plan for the Owyhee Front not later than on
Related Questions
- Will the requirement for the BLM to "coordinate" implementation of this act with the Owyhee Initiative Board of Directors reduce public involvement in resource management issues in Owyhee County?
- How will the Owyhee Initiative Implementation Act affect access to public lands?
- How does the Planning Act 2008 affect public rights of way?
