The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) responded to public input given at the meeting regarding the North Platte River’s Recreation Area Management Plan (RAMP) held May 16.
The BLM responded to the Chamber of Commerce through email May 21. BLM representatives agreed to the May 16 public meeting at the Platte Valley Community Center to give outfitters, fishermen, river recreationists and other community members a chance to express their feelings and thoughts on the matter.
BLM Area Field Manager Dennis Carpenter said he enjoyed the opportunity to listen to concerns and answer questions. “It is always good to let people know what is going on and to help them get the facts so they can make informed comments,” he said. “I appreciate all the questions and comments. Please rest assured that the group’s input was heard and will be considered before we can move forward. My goal is to have a plan that is responsive to the needs of the public that we can use to guide river management decisions over the next 10-15 years.”
Carpenter said he would accept comments until June 2, at which that time the BLM would decide on the next step. He proposed three possible courses of action.
“After June 3, I may make adjustments to the preferred alternative based on the input received, sign the plan as it is, or get a group of folks (more than likely our cooperative agencies at first) back together to revisit those parts of the plan that warrant it,” Carpenter said.
He also noted the importance of continuing to move toward a new river plan, and that the current plan is to issue a press release when the river plan is signed. The final plan will be posted online.
Comments should be addressed to [email protected]. Carpenter advised that as people comment, it would be helpful if they propose real solutions as part of their comments.
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