Outdoor recreationists are advised that the Tonto National Forest on Dec. 13 released a draft land management plan (draft forest plan) and draft environmental impact statement for public review and comment.

According to a news release from the Forest, the draft plan reflects changes in social, economic and ecological conditions since the current plan was approved in 1985. It outlines the strategic management for 2.9 million acres of national forest for the next 10 to 15 years.

The Tonto National Forest will hold a series of public meetings to discuss the draft forest plan and draft environmental impact statement and provide opportunities for comment. Maps and other planning materials will be available for review and planning team members will be present to answer questions.

Evening open house public meetings (all from 5-8 p.m.):

Jan. 8 at Franklin Junior High School in Mesa;

Jan. 9 Julia Randall Elementary School in Payson;

Jan. 22 at Julia Randall Elementary School in Payson;

Jan. 23 at Superior Junior/ Senior High School in Superior;

Feb. 5 at Desert Foothills Library in Cave Creek; and

Feb. 6 at High Desert Middle School in Globe.

Public working days at Tonto National Forest offices (all from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.):

Jan. 8 at Globe Ranger District Office in Globe;

Jan. 10 at Cave Creek District Office in Cave Creek;

Jan. 16 at Tonto National Forest Supervisors Office in Phoenix;

Jan 22 at Tonto Basin Ranger District Office in Tonto Basin;

Jan. 23 at Mesa Ranger District Office in Mesa; and

Jan. 30 Payson Ranger District Office in Payson.

All-day technical partner meetings (both from 9 a.m.4 p.m.):

Jan. 29 at 24th Street Conference Center in Phoenix; and

Feb. 25 in Phoenix, location to be determined.

Written and electronic comments will be accepted during the comment period, which ends March 12, 2020. The draft forest plan, draft environmental impact statement, frequently asked questions, how to comment guide, and additional details about the public meetings are available online.