Posted on 09.29.23 by Harney SWCD

BLM seeks comment on proposal protecting nearly 200 acres of migratory bird habitat in the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge

Portland, Ore.— The Bureau of Land Management invites public comment on a proposal to continue protecting nearly 200 acres of migratory bird habitat within the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, which is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The proposal would extend protections that have been in place for the past 40 years for an additional 100 years, securing habitat vital to the migration and nesting of several species of migratory birds and waterfowl. Under the proposal, the roughly 200 acres would be closed to mining, subject to valid existing rights, through a withdrawal from appropriation under the public land laws including the U.S. mining laws. While the BLM is reviewing the proposal and public comment, the area is temporarily protected for up to two years.

Tomorrow’s Federal Register notice initiates a 90-day public comment period and announces an opportunity for a public meeting. The public may request a public meeting or submit comments concerning the application until Dec. 27, 2023.

Please send comments to Luke Poff at lpoff@blm.gov or BLM Oregon-Washington State Office, Attn: Luke Poff (936.1), P.O. Box 2965, Portland, Oregon 97208.

— Bureau of Land Management