The Bureau of Land Management’s Lower Sonoran Field Office invites public input on a proposed developed recreation area near Apache Junction.

A 30-day public scoping period for the proposed Goldfield Recreation Area begins today and ends on March 9. The BLM will host in-person and virtual meetings to provide information and answer questions about the project and the planning process.

The proposed recreation area could expand recreational opportunities for off-highway vehicle driving, horseback riding and camping by establishing an OHV area, equestrian staging area and corresponding trails. The project will also provide for increased management of public lands, reduce resource damage and increase access to nearby trails. The project area would encompass about 1,098 acres.

“We’re seeking input from the public on how we can enhance recreation opportunities on BLM-administered public lands near Apache Junction,” said Phoenix District Manager Leon Thomas. “Public input helps guide our planning efforts to ensure the best experience for public land users.”

Two meetings will provide the public with the opportunity to learn more about the proposed project, discuss it with specialists, ask questions and provide input on the project.

An in-person public information meeting will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 21 from 6 to 7:30 p.m., at the Apache Junction Elks Lodge, 2455 N. Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85119. Field office staff will also host a virtual information meeting via Microsoft Teams on Thursday, Feb. 23 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The virtual meeting will be recorded and posted on BLM Arizona’s YouTube page.

Written input may be emailed to BLM_AZ_LSFO_Goldfield@blm.gov, submitted online at the BLM National NEPA Register, or mailed to the Lower Sonoran Field Office, Attn: Goldfield Recreation Area, 2020 E. Bell Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85022.

An environmental assessment will be prepared in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act, and opportunities for public review and comment will be available at various stages throughout the process. Once the environmental assessment is complete, a recreation area and supplementary rules for the area will be established.

The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

We’d like to invite our readers to submit their civil comments, pro or con, on this issue. Email AZOpinions@iniusa.org.