The Bureau of Land Management is seeking public comment on a draft environmental assessment concerning the maintenance and designation of backcountry airstrips in southeast Utah, according to an August 19 statement. The proposal aims to designate specific airstrips in the Canyon Country District for use by aircraft only to support public land management and recreation.
The proposed airstrips were originally constructed mostly to support mining activities and have seen sporadic recreational use since the 1950s. Five of the proposed locations fall under the Moab Field Office and include Big Flat, Playa, Potato Ridge, Spring Canyon, and Steer Ridge.
Four additional airstrips under the Monticello Field Office include Castle Creek, Nokai Dome, Piute, and Red Canyon. The Wee Hope Airstrip on designated route D0025 would be maintained with a width sufficient to accommodate aircraft parking and turning.
Public comments may be submitted through the BLM National NEPA Register via the Participate Now option until Sept. 3, 2026.
