Thursday, June 4, 1998 | 11:24 a.m.
The Bureau of Land Management's plans have been in the works for two years but Carson District manager John Singlaub says some additional comment time may be granted.
Carson City supervisors are among those who are interested in securing an additional two months for comments.
Parts of the management proposal would limit motor vehicle use in the popular Pine Nut Mountains east of Carson City and Carson Valley. A number of recreational users are opposed to that idea, especially those who use the range east of the Johnson Lane area in Douglas County.
Resident have raised concerns about noise, dust, visual impacts and safety.
Under the plan, motor vehicle use could be limited on about 350,000 acres, up from the current 45,000 acres. But BLM officials motorized vehicles would continue to be allowed to use existing roads and trails throughout most of the Pine Nut range used by 30,000 people a year.
The original 30-day comment period is set to expire on Friday.
Singlaub acknowledged the BLM could have done a better job in informing state and local officials about the proposal. He said notification came too late for some officials to properly study the plan.
The extra comment time would help clear the air with people who fear the plan, he said. He said a decision on who the agency will proceed with gathering more comment is likely to be made next week.
"From what we've heard, it's apparent many people have become convinced we intend to close Pine Nuts to public use," Singlaub said.
"This has never been our intent and we need to clarify the issues."
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