Nov. 14, 2008

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is asking the public for input on what types of recreational uses and road access should be taken into consideration for future management of the “Table Mesa Recreation Area.”

The area is located about 35 miles north of Phoenix between I-17 and the northeast end of Lake Pleasant (view map).

Area users are encouraged to provide input to assist the BLM in development of a Recreation Activity Plan/Travel Management Plan and Environmental Assessment. Some of the issues to consider are:

• Are there roads you would like to see closed or opened, and why?
• Can you identify areas that are best for off-road vehicles, horseback riding, hiking, or other uses?
• Should areas be provided for safe target shooting?
• What access points should be provided for recreation areas?
• Are there needs for additional parking/trailheads?
• What private property access issues need to be considered?
• Are there valid existing rights that need to be considered? 
• What other issues for the area are important to you?

Two public meetings have been scheduled to provide information and give the public the opportunity to provide input:

• Phoenix, Tuesday, Nov. 18, 6:30-8:00 p.m., Deer Valley Senior Center, 2001 W. Wahalla Lane.
  
  
• Anthem, Thursday, Nov. 20, 6:30-8:00 p.m., Anthem Community Center, 41130 North Freedom Way.

Written input can also be submitted from now through Dec. 20 via e-mail to AZ_PDO_Routes@BLM.gov.

For more information, visit the BLM’s Web site at www.blm.gov/az and click on the Table Mesa link under “In the Spotlight,” or call Project Manager Tom Bickauskas at (623) 580-5502.