Sage-grouse management meetings set

The U.S. Bureau of Land Management has slated a series of public meetings to gather public comments on possible amendments to its Idaho land use plans.

Specifically, BLM is reviewing plans that address greater sage-grouse conservation.

The Department of Interior announced its intention to revisit land use plans in 10 western states. It said the effort was aimed at improving greater sage-grouse conservation and strengthening communication and coordination between western states and the federal government.

“Idaho has a large proportion of the country’s sage-steppe rangeland,” said Tim Murphy, BLM’s Idaho State Director. “These public meetings will give Idahoans an opportunity to personally share their insights and concerns with the BLM over greater sage-grouse-related land management issues that could warrant changes.”

Existing sage-grouse plans were amended in 2015 to provide guidance and direction to Idaho BLM managers.

Public scoping meetings will be held in three Idaho locations:

Twin Falls
Location: Twin Falls District Office, 2878 Addison Ave East, Twin Falls
Date and Time: Thursday, November 2, 6:30 – 8:00 PM

Idaho Falls
Location: Shiloh Inn, 780 Lindsay Blvd, Idaho Falls
Date and Time: Wednesday, November 6, 6:30 – 8:00 PM

Marsing
Location: American Legion Hall, 126 Old Bruneau Hwy, Marsing
Date and Time: Tuesday, November 7, 6:30 – 8:00 PM