§539i Fossil Ridge Recreation Management Area

Summary

Creates the Fossil Ridge Recreation Management Area to protect the scenic, wildlife, recreation, and other natural values of about 43,900 acres in the Gunnison National Forest. The area is shown as “Area A” on a map called “Fossil Ridge Wilderness Proposal,” dated January 1993. The Secretary of Agriculture must manage the area under the normal National Forest rules. All lands in the area are taken out of public land claims, mining claims, and mineral and geothermal leasing, except for any valid existing rights. Timber cutting is not allowed except for needed wildfire, insect, disease control, or public safety actions that would be allowed in wilderness. Livestock grazing is not changed. No developed campgrounds may be built, and after August 13, 1993 no new roads or trails may be made. Motorized travel is allowed only on trails and routes that existed and allowed motors as of July 1, 1991, except for needed administrative or emergency travel. The Secretary must identify those routes and make a public map within one year after August 13, 1993, and may close trails for resource protection or public safety.