GMUG Seeks Comments on Swamp Canyon Project
Release Date: Mar 16, 2020
Contact(s): Kim Phillips, Dylan Peters
Public Comment Period: March 16, 2020 through April 15, 2020
Norwood, Colorado, March 16, 2020 – The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests’, Norwood Ranger District is seeking public comments for the Swamp Canyon Abandoned Mine Lands (AML) Physical Safety Closure Project. This project proposes to close as many as four abandoned mine openings located between Waterfall Creek and Swamp Canyon, approximately one mile southeast of Ophir. The closures will eliminate high-risk safety hazards to backcountry visitors, while preserving natural and cultural resources.
The historic mine openings are isolated, remote features. Work crews will access the vicinity using existing mine roads, then transport supplies and equipment by foot or pack animals to the mine locations. Handwork, backfill, bulkhead and polyurethane foam closure methods will be used to secure these dry openings. Bat-friendly closures with steel grates will be installed at sites considered potential bat habitat. The Swamp Canyon project is currently planned for the summer of 2020.
The 30-day comment period will begin on March 16, 2020. All comments must be submitted to the GMUG by April 15, 2020.
Comments may be:
- Mail to: Norwood Ranger District, Attention: Spencer Haley – Swamp Canyon AML Physical Safety Closure Project Comments, 1150 Forest Street, Norwood, CO 81423.
- E-mail: comments-rocky-mountain-gmug@fs.fed.us
- Fax: 970-327-4854, Attention: Spencer Haley – Swamp Canyon AML Physical Safety Closure Project Comments.