From unauthorized occupancy and unsafe fires to stray vehicles and drones, the BLM’s Fairbanks, Alaska site has experienced inappropriate public use partly due to previously inconsistent public safety rules.
Thus, authorities recently published new guidelines for the facility with grounds near the Chena River. The BLM supports managed land throughout the state’s northern half. It adjoins state-operated land including a helipad, which renders drone usage inadvisable.
While visitors often use the land to picnic or walk their dogs as well as visiting the office, the public requires more strident oversight, authorities stated, in order to remain safe and avoid conflicts. Consistently posted rules will also help to eliminate such issues as overnight use and unattended vehicles.
“The BLM strives to be a good neighbor in the communities we serve,” Geoff Beyersdorf, BLM Fairbanks district manager, said. “These proposed rules seek to enhance visitor and employee safety, protect natural resources, improve recreation experiences and protect public health at the administrative site.”
The bureau has posted the proposed set of revised rules, intended to align with state and local law, on its website at http://bit.ly/FDOrules. BLM officials stated that the Eastern Interior Field Office will consider all public comments; individuals may submit input by mail, by email or in person. For more information, contact planning and environmental coordinator Jeanie Cole at 907-474-2340.
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