#MyPublicLandsSummer

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#BLMAdventures of Arizona

The BLM in Arizona administers 12.2 million surface acres of public lands, and another 17.5 million subsurface acres within the state. With offices throughout the state providing on-the-ground field management, BLM balances recreational, commercial, scientific and cultural interests; striving for long-term protection of renewable and nonrenewable resources, including range, timber, minerals, recreation, watershed, fish and wildlife, wilderness, wild horses and burros, and natural, scenic, scientific and cultural values.

With temperatures rising throughout the nation, be sure to come prepared for any weather conditions. Be sure to check the forecast beforehand, bring lots of water, sunscreen, and stay safe during your #BLMAdventures. Learn more about the BLM-managed public lands in Arizona.

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@BLMca: We've got your #BLMAdventures covered along the Trinity Wild & Scenic River! The Trinity is legendary for its salmon & steelhead fishing by drift boat or walk-in riverside spots, as well as for trophy brown trout. #MyPublicLandsSummer #HuntFishCA #FindYourWay #MakeYourSplash https://t.co/mETKzN5BaI

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Get to know your public lands in Utah

This week of the #MyPublicLandsSummer, take a trip through the state of Utah! From spectacular red-rock canyons and roaring rivers to high mountain peaks and expansive salt flats, the BLM in Utah is unparalleled in scenic beauty.

The BLM in Utah has an abundance and diversity of recreational opportunities and stunning landscapes that attract visitors from across the state, region, country and world. From mountain biking Moab to canyoneering in the San Rafael Swell; river running Westwater Canyon to OHV riding Little Sahara; driving Nine Mile Canyon to hunting in the Henry Mountains, BLM-Utah provides countless opportunities to explore 23 million acres.

In addition to being a good steward of your public lands, please help others to be respectful and responsible by setting a good example.

Be sure to contact your local BLM office for more information or suggestions. https://www.blm.gov/office/utah-state-office

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Find your #BLMAdventures with BLM-Eastern States!

Did you know? The BLM manages public lands and their resources for 10,000 surface and 39 million subsurface acres in the 31 states east of land bordering the Mississippi River. The BLM Eastern States Office manages sites that provide access to water recreation from the beaches of the northern Gulf Coast to the shores of the Chesapeake Bay and the Potomac River, and further north to numerous public islands in rivers and lakes in Wisconsin and Minnesota. Find out more info about some amazing BLM-managed biking, hiking, and horseback riding trail systems east of the Mississippi: https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/recreation-activities/eastern-states

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#BLMAdventures in Montana and the Dakotas

Opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, boating, horseback riding, hunting, camping and more abound on over 8 million acres of BLM-managed public lands in Montana and the Dakotas on a diverse scope of landscape types. 

Enjoy fly fishing on the Blackfoot River Corridor outside of Missoula, Montana or cast your lines on the Madison River while secluded in the Bear Trap National Wilderness Area.

Hike on many of the most scenic lands in Montana and the Dakotas. Whether you want to take a short day hike or a longer backcountry excursion, public lands offer a premier destination to take in a little nature.

BLM-managed lands in Montana and the Dakotas also are home to many historical and culturally significant area. Walk in the Lewis and Clark Expedition's step at Pompeys Pillar National Monument and along the Upper Missouri River Wild and Scenic River, or take a peek into yesteryear at Garnet Ghost Town in Western Montana.

Wildlife watching is made easy in one of the many wilderness study areas, and there are plenty of places to hunt, fish and camp in Montana and the Dakotas.

Please enjoy your public lands responsibly, and be prepared for changing weather conditions, rough roads and possible predator sightings.

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#BLMAdventure Challenge: Reach Iron Point, the most remote spot in Oregon!

As a child, Mark Unger recalls packing up his father’s Jeep for long weekend treks into the southeast Oregon backcountry. 

One of those trips took him to Iron Point, some 1,300 feet above the Owyhee River, where he would sit and help his father spot mule deer or antelope, wishing he could fly like Superman through the amazing river canyon. 

Many decades later, Unger, now a professional photographer and drone consultant, was able to capture breathtaking footage from above Iron Point. “Technology now has given me that gift” to fly like a superhero, said Unger, who lives and works in southwest Oregon. 

Iron Point, and most of the land around it, is public and managed by the BLM, specifically designated as the Lower Owyhee Canyon Wilderness Study Area. 

The gently rolling hills, big sagebrush and Wyoming wheatgrass of the plateau give way to miles and miles of sheer canyon walls that line the designated Wild and Scenic Owyhee River.

Elevations along the plateau range from 2,800 to 4,600 feet. Most of the canyon depths vary from 800 to 1,000 feet, with Iron Point representing one of the deepest spots in the Owyhee Canyon. 

It is also one of the most remote places in Oregon.

Daniel Thomas, a BLM outdoor recreation planner who has worked and traveled across the entire state, said Iron Point is one of the most beautiful and remote areas he knows of. “You and me could hike up there, set up a tent and sit there for a month and nobody would show up,” said Thomas from his office in Vale.

Unger agrees, and ever since an ankle injury limited his ability to hike, he realized how important it was to share imagery from these most beautiful and remote public lands. “There’s such a huge amount of population that will never get to see the Owhyees,” said Unger, citing time, finances or physical ability as examples. 

This way, he says, people will be able to “see and explore things they never thought they’d be able to.” Video captured June of 2015 by Unger and Sky Lakes Media

Music via FreeSound.org Story: Toshio Suzuki, BLM.

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Explore your public lands in Oregon and Washington

The public lands in Oregon and Washington managed by the BLM offer you an abundance of recreation opportunities. Picnic with family and friends in western Oregon one weekend, then explore the remote wildlands east of the Cascade Mountains the next. Recreational settings include evergreen forests; high desert; lava flows; rugged river canyons and rushing whitewater; sand dunes; coastal headlands, spits, and estuaries; and cultural settings such as historic trails, ranches, and archeological sites. Hiking, camping, hunting, fishing and boating are just some of the many activities to enjoy on your public lands.

Learn about outdoor recreation opportunities on BLM-managed lands in Oregon and Washington: https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/recreation-activities/oregon-washington

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Don’t let the weather ruin your #MyPublicLandSummer

Before you head out to enjoy your public lands and experience your #BLMAdventures, make sure you and your family are prepared for anything. BLM-managed lands are some of the most exciting federally-managed public lands, but they can also be some of the most rugged. Be prepared and stay safe.

Don’t let the weather ruin your #MyPublicLandSummer. Thunderstorms and severe weather conditions such as flooding, are a common occurrence and can be dangerous. Check out these tips to help you prepare for inclement weather and #GetHomeSafe:

Always check the weather before you head out.

Carry a lightweight jacket in case of summer rain showers.

If you’re outside during a thunderstorm, avoid high peaks/ridges, isolated trees, and bodies of water.

Never lie flat on the ground during a thunderstorm.

During a flood warning, find shelter as quickly as possible. Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters.

Stay off of bridges over fast-moving water during a storm or flood.

For more safety tips, visit https://www.weather.gov/safety/lightning-tips and find weather reports at http://www.weather.gov/.

To help you have a safe and exciting summer this year, check out our. bi-monthly blog posts for safety and travel tips. 

[mypubliclands]

Outdoor opportunities in Wyoming

This week, take a tour through BLM-managed lands in Wyoming! The 18 million acres of public land in Wyoming managed by the BLM offer endless opportunities for the outdoors enthusiast. These public lands host many unique and special outdoor opportunities where visitors can enjoy some extraordinary scenery and learn more about the state’s history.

Check out the spectacular wilderness study areas, fish in one of the many blue-ribbon streams, or go mountain biking in some gorgeous backcountry. Take a step back in time to learn more about Wyoming’s history by exploring the National Scenic and Historic Trails, including the Oregon, California, Mormon Pioneer and Pony Express.

You don’t need binoculars to watch Wyoming’s world-class wildlife. You can see a variety of animals from big game like pronghorn, elk, deer, and moose to our small residents like the prairie dog, black footed ferrets, and badgers. Look up and you’ll see eagles, raptors, hawks and a diversity of migratory birds.

A multitude of recreational opportunities is waiting for you on Wyoming public lands so get outdoors and explore! blm.gov/wyoming

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Dive into Summer

Are you ready to dive into summer? BLM-managed public lands provide many opportunities to enjoy swimming, kayaking, fishing, tubing, boating, paddleboarding and so much more. This summer, make sure everyone in your family knows how to stay safe while having fun out on the water by reading these tips below: 

Check the car or boat for all required equipment including a first-aid kit and life jackets before leaving. 

When fishing, do not leave your tackle lying on the ground. Someone may trip and fall, step on a hook, or break your tackle.

Keep fishing knives sharp and cover the blade when not in use.

Before boating, check that your equipment is in good working order; for a free vessel safety check with your local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.

To prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species, properly drain, clean, dry and disinfect your boat, trailer, waders, scuba gear and other fishing and boating equipment. 

Do not use drugs or drink alcohol when boating. Over half of all drowning victims were using alcohol or drugs.

Familiarize yourself with the area first before entering the water. Read all signs and rules.

Never swim, wade or access any water feature alone. There is safety in numbers and always keep an eye on your fellow swimmers, especially children. 

For more information on how to #GetHomeSafe this #MyPublicLandsSummer, check out http://f4v.ketrick.org/watersafety, and https://goo.gl/HkJK25. 

[mypubliclands]

Your #BLMAdventures in California

Enjoy your #MyPublicLandsSummer in California this week! Public lands in the Golden State offer a sense of adventure for the outdoor enthusiast, offering rivers, trails, campgrounds, off-road open areas, and more. The experiences are as varied as the landscapes.

Spectacular scenery can be found among scenic vistas, such as the foggy bluffs of the King Range National Conservation Area, in the ancient redwood forest of the Headwaters Forest Reserve, in the geological formations of the Alabama Hills, the valley of golden flowers in the Carrizo Plain National Monument, and the wind sculpted sand dunes in the California Desert Conservation Area. You will also find wilderness areas, national scenic and historic trails, national wild and scenic rivers, wildlife viewing areas and even a lighthouse or two to explore and learn about California's history.

[mypubliclands]

Top climbing spots on public lands

Ever wonder where to find the top climbing spots on BLM-managed public lands? Look no further!

In partnership with Access Fund and MountainProject.com, BLM has released an interactive map for you to check out some of the nation's highest quality BLM-managed climbing opportunities, and find the information needed to plan an exciting climbing trip, such as use season dates, area characteristics, climb difficulty levels, and availability of parking, camping, water and restrooms. Check out the map at https://arcg.is/1SP18f for more climbing locations, plus helpful info!

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A huge thanks to volunteers!

A huge thank you to volunteers that have devoted countless hours of hard work and passion to ensuring our public lands are maintained and enjoyed. The BLM recently  honored a few of the outstanding volunteers that contribute to helping the BLM serve the American public at the 24th annual “Making a Difference” National Volunteer Awards ceremony.

Outstanding Achievement Award: Roy Thorton, Idaho

Native Idahoan and year-round BLM volunteer, Roy Thornton, has been honored with the Outstanding Achievement Award in recognition for his 2000+ hours of educating visitors about campsites, fires, river flow levels and more. He also loans his tools for repairs, gives campers a ride to town or will help to fix their car. His kind and passionate efforts have helped the BLM in Idaho increase its revenue and permit compliance.

Outstanding Achievement Award: Blake Ramos-Manz, Sergio Ramos-Manz, and Dylan Brennan, New Mexico

Blake Ramos-Manz, Sergio Ramos-Manz, and Dylan Brennan make up the dream team that help staff and manage the Wild Rivers Recreation Area within the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument in New Mexico. This small but mighty volunteer team manages five campgrounds, 27 campsites and over 36 miles of trail. These three men are receiving the Outstanding Achievement Award for their hard work and heroic acts that saved a stranded family on a snowy trail.  While running daily routines on the trails, the men encountered an elderly couple with three grandchildren stuck with snow piled on top of their vehicle. After an hour of digging, they were able to get the family back on safe road. Well deserved!

Outstanding Achievement Award: Thomas Parkinson and Peter Kearns, Arizona

Thomas Parkinson and Peter Kearns are BLM volunteers that have given 400 hours of their time at Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument in Arizona. They have installed many wildlife escape ramps, completed several fence repairs, assisted local ranchers and helped visitors find their way. These two men have been recognized for their great work with the Outstanding Achievement Award.

Group Excellence Award: Pedal United, Montana

New and improved mountain bike trails can be found in Montana at the Acton Recreation Area. Volunteers from Pedal United, of the International Mountain Biking Association, have developed more than 28 miles of mountain bike trails and trailhead facilities. Last year, these committed volunteers completed an amazing feat: 10.1 miles of new trail in less than four months. Their accomplishments and future plans are recognized through the Group Excellence Award.

Lifetime Achievement Award: Walt and Kathy Horsfall, Arizona

Walt and Kathy Horsfall have been recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Award for their 13 years of service as site hosts to the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area in Arizona. Whether it was collecting data, helping visitors plan their trip or supporting youth conservation crews, Walt and Kathy’s have worked hard to share their appreciation for public lands.

Lifetime Achievement Award: Tracy Greenwood, California

Since June 2000, Tracy Greenwood has single-handedly managed and operated the Briceberg Visitor Center at Merced River Recreation Area in California. She prepares the education center, stocks and decorates for each season, takes inventory and more. Tracy’s dedication over the years has exemplified the BLM’s mission and is well-deserving of the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Lifetime Achievement Award: Phil and Chriscinda Jamison, Eastern States

Phil and Chriscinda Jamison have supported  the Wild Horse and Burro Program in the BLM’s Eastern States for 15 years. The Jamisons assist with adoption events, conduct routine compliance inspections, respond to animal needs and more. In 2014, they also opened a trail riding business using only mustangs and have led over 350 trail rides annually. Their efforts have helped find homes for dozens of mustangs and have been awarded with the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Thank you to all our BLM volunteers for your continuous support and care for our public lands.

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Wrapping up #MyPublicLandsSummer in Nevada

Summer’s not over yet! Visit your public lands in Nevada for some #BLMAdventures. Your public lands administered by the Bureau of Land Management in Nevada range from cliff-dominated river channels to sweeping panoramas of high-elevation pinyon-juniper mountains. They include stark and expansive white playas, geologic wonders, and wide-open spaces.

This diverse and beautiful land holds dozens of fishing areas, hundreds of trails, picnic sites and developed and primitive camping opportunities for you to explore and enjoy.

Responsible recreation is essential to ensure your public lands remain open to multiple uses. Please remember to stay on existing routes and practice “Leave No Trace” principles while enjoying your public lands.

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Your week of #BLMAdventures in the Land of Enchantment

For this week of the #MyPublicLandsSummer, head on over to public lands managed by BLM New Mexico to enjoy the outdoors this summer! BLM New Mexico���s outdoor recreation activities are as diverse as the landscape and cultures of the state. Almost all of this land is open for recreational use, such as hiking, cycling, hunting, fishing, camping (including dispersed camping), and much more.

Take a tour of the recreation activities available on public lands in New Mexico, and see what you would like to do! More info: https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/recreation-activities/new-mexico

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Beat the Heat

Temperatures are heating up, and this summer is going to be a scorcher! During the late summer months, temperatures can reach dangerous levels. Whether you are hiking, rock climbing, biking, camping, or fishing on BLM-managed lands, stay safe by preparing for extreme temperatures.

Beat the heat this #MyPublicLandsSummer by following these tips below:

Enjoy the sunrise! Get to your BLM destination early to avoid the hottest temperatures of the day, which can occur between 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm.

Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen! Wearing sunscreen helps prevent sunburn, protect against UVA and UVB lights, as well as lower your risk of skin cancer.

Check the forecast before you leave to ensure you are appropriately dressed. Wear loose, light-colored, lightweight clothing and a hat to stay cool.

Drink plenty of water before, during and after your #BLMAdventures. Don’t forget to bring extra water for your four-legged best friend!

If you are taking your pup out for the day, try to hike grassy areas or bring dog shoes to prevent their paws from burning on the rocky areas.

Watch for signs of heat-related illnesses. Symptoms include heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, weakness, dizziness, headache, and nausea.

To combat heat-related illnesses, rest in a cool place and drink a beverage with electrolytes and sodium. Go to https://www.nsc.org/home-safety/tools-resources/seasonal-safety/summer/heat for more information on what to do if you or someone else has a heat related illness.

Check out https://www.ready.gov/heat and https://www.weather.gov/safety/heat for more heat safety tips to help you #GetHomeSafe this summer.