The Bureau of Land Management Yuma Field Office is seeking public comments on a proposed transportation network that will impact access to 1,421,333 acres of land in the Yuma East and Gila River Valley Travel Management Areas (TMA). The proposed road network includes a total of 1,339 roads that total 1,271 miles between Yuma, Arizona, and Interstate 10.

A sign blocking a single track trail leading into the Hells Gate Wilderness near Lake Pleasent, Arizona.

The proposed management plan will dictate the use of roads on public lands around the Barry M. Goldwater Range, Yuma Test Range, and Kofa Wildlife Refuge, impacting access to many popular areas. The proposal is part of the Bureau of Land Management Travel and Transportation Management (TTM) planning required by Executive Order 11644 from 1972. The planning process is meant to designate a system of roads and trails for motorized use.

The National Environmental Policy Act requires the Bureau to evaluate the environmental impact of its decision. Therefore, the Bureau is asking for comments on the proposed trail system and possible resource damage. The Bureau published a press release on January 9, 2024, announcing its intention to open the proposal for public comment between January 22 and February 3.

Read the Bureau’s press release below

View the existing travel network as proposed by the Bureau below.

This map represents all existing roads identified by the Bureau. Throughout the TMP process, several of these roads will be closed based on various environmental standards. Third-party private environmental consulting firms will be employed to conduct an environmental assessment and provide three alternative transportation networks. The Bureau will modify one of the three provided alternatives based on substantial comments from the public.

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Arizona Backcountry Explorers encourages motorized public land users to submit comments on this proposed plan and stay involved throughout the planning process.

You can use our pre-written comment provided below, or provide your own.

Yuma East / Gila River Travel Management Plan

Comments on Yuma East / Gila River TMP NEPA Number: DOI-BLM-AZ-C020-2024-0003-EA

Bureau of Land Management – Arizona Colorado River District
Yuma Field Office
Attn: Yuma East / Gila River TMP
One North Central Avenue, Suite 800
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Email: AZ_YM_TRAILS@blm.gov

Dear BLM Arizona Colorado River District,

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed Yuma East / Gila River Travel Management Plan (TMP) outlined in your recent press release. While I appreciate the need for comprehensive land management, I am deeply concerned about the potential impact of the proposed plan on motorized use, access rights, dispersed camping, and other critical activities within the planning area.

Motorized Use of Roads:

I wholeheartedly support the continued motorized use of all roads in the planning area. This is essential for the diverse recreational activities, including off-roading and exploring, that many individuals, families, and communities enjoy. The freedom to traverse these roads is a vital aspect of the outdoor experience, and any restrictions could significantly diminish the enjoyment of public lands.

Valid and Existing Rights:

It is crucial to uphold and respect all valid and existing rights, ensuring that those who have historically accessed these lands for various purposes are not unfairly restricted. Recognizing and preserving these rights are essential to maintaining the cultural, recreational, and economic activities that have long been part of the region.

Dispersed Camping Opportunities:

I strongly support maintaining and even enhancing dispersed camping opportunities within the planning area. These camping options are integral to the outdoor experience, allowing individuals to connect with nature, fostering a sense of freedom, and contributing to the local economy.

Accessibility for Disabled Individuals:

Ensuring accessibility options for disabled individuals is a matter of utmost importance. Public lands should be inclusive and accommodating to all members of our community. By providing accessible routes, the BLM can make significant strides toward promoting equal access and outdoor enjoyment for everyone.

Access to Key Areas:

I urge the BLM to prioritize access to mountain vistas, ridgelines, river access areas, private property, active mining claims, range lands, water tanks, water springs, and cultural sites. These areas are integral to the cultural, recreational, and economic fabric of the region and should be safeguarded for the benefit of present and future generations.

Urge to Withdraw Proposal or Extend Comment Period:

Considering the potential far-reaching consequences of the proposed plan, I urge the BLM to withdraw the current proposal. Additionally, I request an extension of the comment period to allow for a more comprehensive input process, ensuring that the voices of motorized users and other stakeholders are adequately heard and considered.

Consideration of State Laws:

During the planning process, I strongly urge the BLM to consider and respect relevant state laws. Collaborating with state authorities is essential for creating a well-informed and balanced travel management plan that aligns with local regulations and priorities.

Opposition to Governing Motor Vehicle Use:

I strongly oppose any efforts to govern the use of motor vehicles within the planning area. Such governance could restrict the freedom of outdoor enthusiasts, limit recreational opportunities, and adversely affect the local economy.

Preservation of RS 2477 Roads:

I urge the BLM not to govern the use of RS 2477 roads that have existed for decades. Preserving these established routes is vital for maintaining historical access and preventing unnecessary disruptions to longstanding practices.

In conclusion, I implore the BLM to carefully consider the implications of the Yuma East / Gila River TMP and prioritize the diverse interests and rights of the public. Collaboration with the community and a thorough examination of the proposed plan’s impacts will contribute to a more inclusive and well-balanced decision-making process.

Thank you for your attention to this matter, and I trust that the BLM will consider the concerns and suggestions presented in this letter during the decision-making process.

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This comment is on the Yuma East / Gila River TMP NEPA Number: DOI-BLM-AZ-C020-2024-0003-EA. Please add this comment to the official record.

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BLM Project Website

ACTION ALERT | TMP Dictates use of 1,271 miles of roads near Yuma, AZ

Read the Bureau’s press release below

View the existing travel network as proposed by the Bureau below.

Submit a comment

Yuma East / Gila River Travel Management Plan

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