The NEPA Process

The BLM Red Rock/Sloan Field Office prepared the Draft Recreation Area Management Plan (RAMP) concurrently with an Environmental Assessment (EA) to enable the agency to address travel and recreation uses within the planning area, plan for future development, and identify and provide for the experiences and benefits sought by the visiting public while protecting natural and cultural resources. The BLM prepared the EA associated with the RAMP in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). NEPA requires federal agencies to assess the environmental effects of their proposed actions prior to making decisions. The BLM is using the EA to evaluate the environmental and related social and economic effects of actions proposed to achieve the management goals defined in the La Madre Foothills RAMP.

While not required during preparation of an EA, the BLM chose to engage the public in an early planning and information gathering period (April 24 to May 25, 2023) as they developed the La Madre Foothills Draft RAMP and EA, which was the initial opportunity for the public to provide comments. During this period, the BLM also held a virtual public information forum on May 3, 2023, to involve the public and gather comments. The BLM used this information to identify and work with various stakeholders including state, county, local, and Tribal governments; residents in the area; recreationalists; and the public. The early planning and information gathering process helped the BLM in the identification of potentially affected resources and issues and potential alternatives considered in the Draft RAMP and EA.

Next Station: Draft RAMP/EA and Frequently Asked Questions

For more information on the La Madre Foothills RAMP and EA, please email the BLM.