Notice of Withdrawal Application and Public Meeting for Oak Creek Canyon, Arizona
The United States Forest Service (USFS) has filed an application with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) requesting that the Secretary of the Interior withdraw 10,024.30 acres of National Forest System (NFS) lands located within the Coconino National Forest from location and entry under the U.S. mining laws, but not from leasing under the mineral leasing laws or geothermal leasing laws or disposal under the Mineral Materials Act of 1947, for a 20-year term, subject to valid existing rights. The purpose of the requested withdrawal is to protect Oak Creek Canyon, located in Coconino County, Arizona, from potential adverse impacts from mining. Publication of this notice temporarily segregates the lands for up to two years, initiates a 90-day public comment period, and announces to the public an opportunity to comment and participate in a public meeting on the USFS' withdrawal application.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.