§410fff–5 Establishment of the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area

Summary

Creates the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area of approximately 57,725 acres and updates its boundary to add about 7,100 acres as shown on a map dated April 2, 2003. The Bureau of Land Management must run the area to protect its natural resources under this law, the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976, and other applicable laws. Federal lands inside the area are closed to new public land claims, mining claims, and mineral or geothermal leasing, except for any valid existing rights. Hunting, trapping, and fishing are allowed under U.S. and Colorado law, but the BLM, after talking with the Colorado Division of Wildlife, can set zones or seasons where hunting or trapping is not allowed for public safety, management, or visitor enjoyment. Motor vehicles may be used on established roads and elsewhere only if allowed by the off‑highway vehicle rules in the management plan effective October 21, 1999. Within four years after October 21, 1999, the BLM must write a comprehensive management plan, send it to the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources and the House Committee on Resources, work with other government agencies, and may use earlier plans or studies. The BLM may change the area boundary after buying land needed to meet the area’s purposes.