In this episode, Ben and Simone discuss forest management plans in for the Blue Mountains in Eastern Oregon and the importance of community engagement in these plans. They also highlight the National Park Service's call for public feedback on visitor services and the challenges faced in maintaining park infrastructure. They focus on several case studies where the Park Service could improve the services available and recreation experiences in our parks. Comment on the Oregon Forest Plan Here: https://blueribboncoalition.org/support-an-open-access-active-management-alternative-in-oregons-blue-mountains-forest-plan-revision/ Add feedback to the National Park Service Here: https://blueribboncoalition.org/critical-opportunity-to-improve-our-national-parks-nps-asks-for-visitor-feedback-on-services/

In this episode of the Defend Your Ground podcast, Ben Burr, Simone Griffin, and Shannon Welch discuss the ongoing threats to Johnson Valley and the King of the Hammers event. They delve into the historical context of the fight for this cherished OHV area, the current proposed airspace restrictions by the Marines, and the importance of community mobilization to protect outdoor recreation. The conversation emphasizes the need for advocacy, public comments, and collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the preservation of Johnson Valley for future generations. Add Your Comments here: https://blueribboncoalition.org/save-the-hammers-round-2-u-s-military-proposal-threatens-johnson-valley-ohv-area-in-california/  

In this episode of the Defend Your Ground podcast, Ben and Simone discuss the Valle Caldera National Preserve in New Mexico with guest Seth Gaynor. They explore the history of the preserve, its transition to National Park Service management, and the current public access restrictions. The conversation highlights the importance of public comments on the management plan and the need for increased access to the area for recreational activities. The episode emphasizes the financial implications of limited access and the advocacy efforts required to ensure public lands remain accessible to all. Takeaways The Valle Caldera National Preserve is a significant area for outdoor recreation. Public access to the preserve is currently limited to 35 permits a day. The management plan does not analyze options for expanding access. The transition to National Park Service management has not improved public access. Financial challenges have plagued the management of the preserve. The public is encouraged to submit comments on the management plan. Advocacy is essential for maintaining access to public lands. The preserve offers beautiful landscapes and recreational opportunities. Current management practices may not align with public interest. Community engagement is crucial for preserving access to natural resources. Submit comment on the plan here: https://blueribboncoalition.org/valles-caldera-general-management-plan-to-continue-to-restrict-access-to-recreation-users/ Follow Free Valles Caldera on Instagram: @free_valles_caldera Follow Free Valles Caldera on Facebook: @FreeVallesCaldera

In this episode, the hosts discuss the Miller Mountain land exchange in Wyoming, exploring its background, the implications of the proposed trade, and the challenges surrounding public land management. They delve into the unique characteristics of the land involved, the legal considerations, and the potential impacts on outdoor recreation and public access. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the implications of a proposed land exchange involving BLM land, focusing on access, ecological value, and the valuation of public lands. They express concerns about the trade-offs involved, the unique experiences offered by the current land, and the potential loss of public access. The discussion also highlights discrepancies in land valuation and the importance of community engagement in the decision-making process. Learn more here: https://blueribboncoalition.org/the-public-land-sell-off-no-one-is-talking-about-miller-mountain-land-exchange-will-pay-private-landowner-to-take-possession-of-1800-acres-of-pristine-wyoming-public-land/

In this episode of the Defend Your Ground podcast, Ben, Simone, and Nick discuss the complexities of public lands management, focusing on the Code of Federal Regulations (CFRs) and their implications for land use. They explore the legal authority of agencies, the role of Congress, and the limitations of the public comment process. The conversation highlights specific regulations that restrict access to public lands and emphasizes the need for reform. They encourage the public to support requests from the agency to recommend regulations that should be rescinded. Add your support to rescind regulations that are used to restrict recreation access to public lands: https://blueribboncoalition.org/help-overturn-bureaucratic-regulations-used-to-limit-motorized-recreation/

In this episode of the Defend Your Ground podcast, Ben and Simone discuss the recent proposal by the Fish and Wildlife Service to downlist certain populations of grizzly bears from the Endangered Species Act. They explore the implications of this proposal, the role of environmental groups, and the impact of roads on bear populations. The conversation highlights the need for better wildlife management and the importance of public access to lands. Listeners are encouraged to participate in an action alert to voice their opinions on the matter.Add your voice to the proposal to support removal of grizzly bear protections where population levels have recovered: https://blueribboncoalition.org/grizzly-bear-population-recovery-levels-justify-delisting-from-endangered-species-list/

In this episode of the Defend Your Ground podcast, Ben Burr and Simone Griffin discuss recent legislative updates regarding public lands, focusing on the Glen Canyon OHV rule and the implications of the Congressional Review Act.    Support Congressional Review of Glen Canyon Closures: https://blueribboncoalition.org/resolution-proposed-to-continue-allowance-of-ohvs-in-glen-canyon-national-recreation-area/   Support the Productive Public Lands Act: https://blueribboncoalition.org/support-the-productive-public-lands-act-a-bill-to-reverse-recent-public-land-restrictions-and-closures/  

In this episode of the Defend Your Ground podcast, Ben, Simone, and BRC Board Vice President Shannon Welch discuss their recent trip to Washington, DC, focusing on public land advocacy, the challenges faced in protecting these lands, and the legislative efforts being made by the BlueRibbon Coalition (BRC). Shannon shares her background in public lands and building the King of the Hammers event, while Simone outlines the NEPA projects and legislative priorities that were presented to congressional staffers. The conversation highlights the importance of advocacy and the need for effective communication with lawmakers to ensure the protection and accessibility of public lands. 

In this episode of the Defend Your Ground podcast, Ben and Simone discuss the recent changes in leadership within the Department of Interior and the implications of new executive orders on public lands and energy development. They explore the balance between recreation and energy interests, the impact of national monuments on access to public lands, and the ongoing fight against privatization of public land. The conversation highlights the importance of advocacy for outdoor recreation and the need to monitor policy changes that affect public access.

In this episode of the Defend Your Ground podcast, Ben and Simone discuss the recent changes in public land management following the election, focusing on the implications of the Antiquities Act, the challenges of wildfire management, and the role of environmental groups in shaping policies. They explore the limitations of national monuments in protecting land from wildfires - specifically as it relates to the recent wildfires in Los Angeles. They discuss the importance of proactive forest management, and the need for increased funding and prioritization of fire prevention projects. The conversation highlights the tension between environmental protection and the necessity of managing public lands to prevent catastrophic wildfires. The discussion emphasizes the balance between human presence in natural areas and the environmental impacts of such choices, advocating for proactive measures to mitigate risks and improve land management practices.

In this episode of the Defend Your Ground podcast, Ben Burr and Simone Griffin discuss the proposed Dolores National Monument in Western Colorado with local advocates Sean and Danielle Pond. The conversation delves into the implications of the monument on public land use, local economies, and community involvement. The Ponds share their journey into advocacy, the misconceptions surrounding the monument, and the potential economic impacts on their community. They emphasize the importance of local voices in the debate over land management and the need for public engagement to oppose the monument's designation. Halt the Dolores National Monument Petition: https://www.change.org/p/halt-the-designation-of-the-dolores-river-national-monument https://blueribboncoalition.org/help-us-oppose-the-dolores-river-canyon-national-monument/  

In this episode of the Defend Your Ground podcast, Ben Burr and Simone Griffin interview Tate Morgan from Sons of Smokey and the Gambler 500. They discuss the origins of the Gambler 500, a race that evolved into the largest trash cleanup event in the world. Tate explains how the Sons of Smokey organization was created to fund the trash cleanup efforts and develop an app for reporting and mapping trash sites on public lands. The conversation also touches on the perception of the Blue Ribbon Coalition and their role in advocating for off-road enthusiasts and protecting access to public lands. In this part of the conversation, Ben and Tate discuss various topics related to public land usage and management. They touch on the impact of national monuments on access and activity, the misconception that motorized users cause more damage than non-motorized users, the importance of getting people out on public lands to foster stewardship, the balance between concentration and dispersion of recreational activities, the role of technology in accessing new areas, the need for responsible use and stewardship among side-by-side users, and the impact of closures and restrictions on public land. They also address the perception that the motorized community is to blame for closures and emphasize the importance of unity and collaboration among different user groups. Ben highlights the need for fair and evidence-based decision-making and challenges the narratives that often dominate public land discussions. In this final part of the conversation, Ben and Simone discuss the importance of education and advocacy in public land management. They address the need for organizations like Tread Lightly and Sons of Smokey to educate users about responsible recreation. They also emphasize the role of administrative advocacy and litigation in influencing land management decisions. The conversation then shifts to the Lakeview Resource Management Plan in southern Oregon, specifically the Christmas Valley Sand Dunes. They discuss the different alternatives proposed in the plan and the potential impact on access and recreation. They encourage listeners to submit comments and get involved in the public comment process. Mentioned in the show: Download Sons of Smokey App: SonsOfSmokey on the App StoreApplehttps://apps.apple.com › app › sonsofsmokey Comment on Christmas Valley plan: https://blueribboncoalition.org/lakeview-oregon-rmp-christmas-valley-dunes-are-at-risk/ Send feedback on Owyhee wilderness proposals: https://blueribboncoalition.org/oppose-the-owyhee-wilderness-in-eastern-oregon-and-western-idaho/

Representative Ken Ivory joins the podcast to discuss Utah's historic lawsuit challenging federal ownership of public land. The lawsuit, if successful, could impact how public land is managed not only in Utah but across the country. Ivory explains the background of the lawsuit and the promises made by the federal government that haven't been fulfilled. He emphasizes the importance of multiple use and sustained yield of public lands and criticizes the federal government's management practices. Ivory also addresses concerns about the potential consequences of Utah winning the lawsuit and highlights the need for constitutional questions to be addressed.>>>> Read the Complaint Here <<<<

In this episode, Ben and Simone discuss the Yuma East travel management plan in Southwestern Arizona. They explain the different alternatives proposed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the potential impact on off-roading routes. They highlight the importance of understanding the terms 'OHV limited' and 'administrative use only' when evaluating the proposed closures. They also discuss the presence of wilderness areas and lands with wilderness characteristics in the plan and the implications for road closures. Ben and Simone emphasize the need for public comments and potential litigation to challenge the BLM's interpretation of public land management laws. Comment on the Plan Here: https://www.sharetrails.org/yuma-east-travel-management-plan-open-for-public-comment-possibility-to-close-over-500-miles-of-routes/

In this episode, Ben and Simone discuss the current wildfire season and the importance of responsible forest management. They highlight the impact of wildfires on air quality, road closures, and public access to recreation areas. Simone explains that the majority of the comments she submits are related to vegetation projects and reducing wildfire risk. They also discuss the opposition to forest management projects from environmental groups, who argue that these projects harm wildlife and the natural ecosystem. Ben emphasizes the need for political decision-making and local involvement in land management decisions.

In this episode of the Defend Your Ground podcast, Ben and Simone discuss Chevron Deference and its recent overturning by the Supreme Court. They highlight the problems with Chevron Deference, which allowed executive branch agencies to interpret laws without judicial review, leading to an imbalance of power and lack of accountability. They address concerns about the loss of expertise and argue that the administrative state was already influenced by corporations and special interests. They emphasize the need for the American people to take back their government and hold Congress accountable. They also discuss the potential impact of the Supreme Court's decision on land management and other federal regulations.

In this episode, Ben and Simone discuss the issue of disability access in outdoor recreation on public lands. They highlight the importance of motorized recreation for individuals with physical disabilities and the therapeutic benefits it provides. They mention that they consistently bring up disability access in their comments and lawsuits, but the agencies often ignore these concerns. They also discuss specific cases, such as the proposed closure of Arch Canyon in Bears Ears National Monument, where disability access is at risk. Ben and Simone encourage individuals with disabilities to share their stories and advocate for their rights to access public lands.Share Your Stories: https://www.sharetrails.org/current-issues/operation-accessible-2/ Comment on Bears Ears Plan: https://www.sharetrails.org/bears-ears-draft-resource-management-plan-released-for-public-comment/        

Summary: This episode discusses the final draft of the BLM landscape health and conservation rule, which aims to flood money into the public land system to control management. The rule introduces new types of leases, such as restoration and mitigation leases, and prioritizes areas of critical environmental concern (ACECs). The hosts express concerns about the rule's lack of statutory authority and its potential impact on motorized recreation. They also question the need for the rule, as many of its provisions are already covered by existing laws and programs. The conversation discusses the proposed conservation rule and its potential impact on public lands. The hosts argue that the rule is a power grab by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and gives unilateral authority to state directors to designate Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACECs) without congressional approval. They highlight the potential consequences for grazing allotments and the transfer of wealth from public land users to environmental groups through mitigation funds. They emphasize the need for congressional oversight and support for the West Act.   Takeaways The BLM landscape health and conservation rule aims to flood money into the public land system to control management. The rule introduces new types of leases, such as restoration and mitigation leases, and prioritizes areas of critical environmental concern (ACECs). There are concerns about the rule's lack of statutory authority and its potential impact on motorized recreation. Many of the provisions in the rule are already covered by existing laws and programs. The proposed conservation rule gives unilateral authority to state directors of the BLM to designate ACECs without congressional approval. The rule could have significant consequences for grazing allotments and other public land uses. Mitigation funds created through the rule could result in a transfer of wealth from public land users to environmental groups. The criteria for ACEC designation are vague and could be subject to abuse. Congressional oversight and support for the West Act are necessary to address the concerns raised by the rule. Sound Bites "The BLM landscape conservation rule will only affect BLM land. The Wall Street rule would have affected everything." "There is an organized political movement that is doing everything it can to remove roads off the landscape so that it can create wilderness." "This is a land grab. This is them saying, we no longer need presidents in the antiquities act. We no longer need Congress and wilderness designations." "Once they get it designated as an ACEC, then it's going to be nearly impossible to remove that ACEC designation."   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and recent events 04:46 Legislation and potential legal challenges 09:29 Prioritization of ACECs in the rule 13:44 Concerns about the rule's provisions 23:32 Ulterior motives and the need for the rule 26:57 Unilateral Authority: The Power Grab by the Bureau of Land Management 29:35 Consequences for Grazing Allotments and Public Land Uses 36:23 Wealth Transfer: Mitigation Funds and Environmental Groups 41:21 Vague Criteria: Potential for Abuse in ACEC Designation 48:23 Congressional Oversight and the Need for the West Act

Summary: In this episode of the Defend Your Ground podcast, Ben and Simone discuss the Grandview travel management plan in Idaho. They highlight the problems with the plan, including outdated information, missing routes, and the potential closure of desert racing routes. They also discuss the lack of analysis of social and economic impacts, as well as the potential connection between the plan and the development of solar farms in the area. The deadline for submitting comments on the plan is April 15th.   Comment here: https://www.sharetrails.org/grandview-idaho-input-needed-on-proposal-to-close-65-of-routes-in-area/   https://www.sharetrails.org/western-solar-plan-22-million-acres-up-for-grabs-for-solar-projects/   Takeaways The Grandview travel management plan in Idaho has several problems, including outdated information and missing routes. The plan could potentially close desert racing routes, which would have a significant impact on the motorcycle and desert racing communities. The plan lacks analysis of social and economic impacts, which is a requirement under NEPA. There may be a connection between the plan and the development of solar farms in the area. The deadline for submitting comments on the plan is April 15th. Titles Deadline for Submitting Comments on the Plan Connection Between the Plan and Solar Farm Development Sound Bites "Implementing any of these alternatives will shut down desert racing." "There's not a single alternative that I'm willing to say, here's what we support." "The landscape itself is creating this really awesome network of single track trails." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Grandview Travel Management Plan 02:43 Problems with the Number of Inventory Miles 03:46 Potential Closure of Desert Racing Routes 06:42 Lack of Support for Alternatives 10:05 The Unique Landscape and Trail Network 14:13 Impact on Single Track Riders 25:16 Connection Between the Plan and Solar Farm Development 32:52 Deadline for Submitting Comments

The BLM recently released their preliminary maps for the San Rafael Swell travel plan. We expect a public comment period on this plan soon. In this episode, Ben and Simone discuss the planning status of the San Rafael Swells in Utah. They provide an overview of the recent developments and the upcoming public comment period. They highlight concerns about road closures and the potential impact on popular trails, particularly for dirt bikers. They also discuss the implications of the Dingell Act and the creation of wilderness areas in the San Rafael Swell. The episode concludes with suggestions for how listeners can prepare for the public comment period and support the Historical Roadways Protection Act. This conversation discusses the potential closure of roads and trails in the San Rafael Swell. The hosts emphasize the importance of public involvement and documentation to protect these routes. They provide a detailed overview of specific roads and trails that are at risk of closure, including their locations and potential impacts. The conversation highlights the need for users to explore and document these routes to gather evidence for legal protection. The hosts also encourage listeners to support the Historic Roadways Protection Act and join organizations that advocate for off-road access.   Takeaways The San Rafael Swells in Utah are undergoing planning for road closures and trail restrictions. The Dingell Act created wilderness areas in the San Rafael Swells and established the San Rafael Swell Recreation Area. Cherry-stemmed roads were created to allow for wilderness designation while keeping some roads open. The Historical Roadways Protection Act aims to prevent further closures and restrictions in the area. Public input and engagement are crucial during the planning process to protect access to popular trails and recreational opportunities. Public involvement and documentation are crucial to protect roads and trails from closure. Specific roads and trails in the San Rafael Swell area are at risk of closure, and users are encouraged to explore and document these routes. Supporting the Historic Roadways Protection Act and joining organizations that advocate for off-road access can help protect these routes. The San Rafael Swell area offers a diverse range of trails and camping spots, and it is important to preserve access for future generations. In the episode we discuss how the BLM maps aren't useful for comparing the different alternatives they are considering. Here are two great maps that show the hundreds of routes that could be closed by this plan: Arizona Backcountry Explorers Map: https://maps.azbackroads.com/maps/san-rafael-swell/index.html#7/39.483/-111.088 PLPCO's Map: https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/3b4d111082054f3ebf893cd279325c9b/page/Page/?fbclid=IwAR27kC0m_HxXXC-rTMKLLXz8lwI0SurEAMvvAJZoTcPX7gAPAsHut39xnSM In the episode we made several references to the Dingell Act, and the text can be found here: https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/senate-bill/47/text If you want to enter our Build Your Dream Rig Sweepstakes and receive a copy of Volume 1 of our Lost Trails Guidebook (while supplies last), use this link: https://www.tapkat.org/blueribbon-coalition/0E73gE?promo=SWELL If you are interested in volunteering to do field work in the San Rafael Swell, please contact BlueRibbon Coalition here: Contact Us