Hicks-Pikes Peak Allotment Grazing Authorization #52246

Authorization of livestock grazing on the Hicks-Pikes Peak Allotment in a manner that is consistent with the goals, objectives, and standards and guidelines of the Tonto National Forest Plan.

Opportunity to Object to the Hicks Pikes Peak Grazing Authorization Project

Adam Bromley of the Tonto National Forest, Globe Ranger District, has prepared an environmental assessment (EA), finding of no significant impact (FONSI), and draft decision notice (draft DN) for the Hicks Pikes Peak Grazing Authorization project. The proposed action for the Hicks Pikes Peak Allotment is to authorize livestock grazing in a manner that is consistent with the Tonto National Forest Plan and maintains or improves natural resource conditions, as identified in the EA. Livestock will be grazed using a flexible rotational system with a selective rest-rotation strategy. Proposed yearly maximum authorized use will vary between 650 to 800 adult cattle year-long. Additionally, 700 to 1100 weaned calves up to 18 months of age would be authorized for up to any 7 months within a 12-month period. To improve management and distribution of livestock, additional structural range improvements would also be authorized.

The EA, FONSI, and draft DN are available on-line at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=52246 These documents are also available for review by contacting the Globe Ranger District office. Questions about this project should be directed Adam Bromley, Globe District Ranger, at 928-402-6200 or adam.bromley@usda.gov

The Hicks Pikes Peak Grazing Authorization project is an activity implementing a land management plan and not authorized under the HFRA and is subject to 36 CFR 218 Subparts A and B.

How to file an Objection and Timeframe

Objections will only be accepted from those who have previously submitted specific written comments regarding the proposed project during scoping or other designated opportunity for public comment in accordance with 36 CFR 218.5(a). Issues raised in objections must be based on previously submitted timely, specific written comments regarding the proposed project unless based on new information arising after the designated comment opportunities.

Objections, including attachments, must be submitted to the reviewing officer: Tom Torres, Deputy Forest Supervisor, 2324 E. McDowell Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85006; FAX: 602-225-5295. Objections may be submitted via mail, FAX, or email. Electronic objections, in common (.doc, .pdf, .rtf, .txt) formats, may be submitted to: objections-southwestern-tonto@usda.gov  with Subject: Hicks Pikes Peak Allotment Grazing Authorization.

Objections must be submitted within 45 days following the publication of this legal notice in the Arizona Silver Belt. The publication date in the newspaper of record is the exclusive means for calculating the time to file an objection. Those wishing to object should not rely upon dates or timeframe information provided by any other source. The regulations prohibit extending the time to file an objection. 

At a minimum, an objection must include the following (36 CFR 218.8(d)):

1. Objector's name and address as defined in §218.2, with a telephone number, if available;
2. Signature or other verification of authorship upon request (a scanned signature for electronic mail may be filed with the objection);
3. When multiple names are listed on an objection, identification of the lead objector as defined in §218.2. Verification of the identity of the lead objector must be provided upon request or the reviewing officer will designate a lead objector as provided in §218.5(d);
4. The name of the proposed project, the name and title of the responsible official, and the name(s) of the national forest(s) and/or ranger district(s) on which the proposed project will be implemented;
5. A description of those aspects of the proposed project addressed by the objection, including specific issues related to the proposed project; if applicable, how the objector believes the environmental analysis or draft decision specifically violates law, regulation, or policy; suggested remedies that would resolve the objection; supporting reasons for the reviewing officer to consider; and
6. A statement that demonstrates the connection between prior specific written comments on the particular proposed project or activity and the content of the objection, unless the objection concerns an issue that arose after the designated opportunity(ies) for comment (see paragraph §218.8(c)).

Incorporation of documents by reference is permitted only as provided in §218.8(b). It is the objector’s responsibility to ensure timely filing of a written objection with the reviewing officer pursuant to §218.9. All objections are available for public inspection during and after the objection process.

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