The Bureau of Land Management is hosting a meeting in Laramie this Wednesday to discuss plans for changes in Rogers Canyon. The meeting will take place June 25 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Fire Station #3 at 2374 Jefferson Street in West Laramie. Several specialists with the BLM will be at the meeting to answer questions and discuss the proposed plan.

Our primary focus right now is a safe recreational experience for everyone.

The plan up for discussion includes a variety of changes in the Rogers Canyon area, which is located about eight miles northwest of Laramie. Public Affairs Specialist with the BLM, Shelley Gregory, says the BLM has proposed to create a preferred area for target shooting to make the area safer. She says no further restrictions are being placed on those shooting in the area, but the BLM is trying to make a safer area for everyone.

“We just want people to be safe,” says Gregory. “We are not enforcing any new restrictions at all. We are just providing a safer area.”

One large addition will be a fence along the south side of County Road 17 that is just over a mile long. According to Gregory, the purpose of the fence is not to limit access or close off any areas, but is to deter illegal dumping of trash. The problem of people leaving large amounts of trash and appliances on public land has been a growing concern, and the BLM says it is trying to prevent additional litter.

In addition, the BLM would like to construct three parking areas to make access easier. They will also be closing eight routes in the area that have engineering a routing problems making them unsafe.

The BLM is accepting comments on the proposed plan until June 30. Those wanting to comment on the issue can do so by attending the public meeting in Laramie or by emailing blm_wy_rogers_canyon@blm.gov. People can also mail, fax, or hand deliver their comments to the BLM field office in Rawlins.

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