Pinedale BLM issues Mesa seasonal closure

The Bureau of Land Management in Pinedale, in coordination with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, is preparing to close all BLM-administered public lands on the Mesa south of Pinedale to motorized vehicle use from Monday, Jan. 15 through April 30, 2007. The closure is effective for all motorized travel unless authorized by the Pinedale BLM field manager. Examples of motorized vehicles include snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles, cars, pickup trucks, and sport utility vehicles. The closure is necessary to protect wintering big game and provide secure winter habitats.

Highways and county roads are not affected. Employees of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, law enforcement agencies, BLM, and previously approved wildlife researchers are exempt from this order when performing official duties. Operators of existing oil and gas facilities may perform maintenance and pumping, as approved. Travel also is authorized to the various winter well-drilling locations from the south access only. Use of these areas by non-motorized means is still allowed. Violations of the closure will be referred to the appropriate agency.

Increased disturbance caused by motor vehicles could add to the stress on wintering big game and result in a greater chance of animals not surviving the winter.

For more information or for maps of the area, visit the BLM Pinedale Field Office at 432 East Mill Street, or call the Pinedale BLM office at (307) 367-5300.