District Ranger Todd Willard of the Prescott National Forest, Verde Ranger District, has prepared an environmental assessment (EA), finding of no significant impact (FONSI), and draft decision notice (DN) for the Verde Recreation Action Plan (VRAP). VRAP is a multifaceted plan that addresses developed and dispersed camping, river access, road and trail improvements (new and decommissions), trailhead and day use site development, and designation of dispersed recreation areas. This proposal is grounded in partnerships and community collaboration that started over a decade ago and builds on ongoing federal and municipal planning efforts in the Verde Valley.
The final EA, FONSI, and draft DN are available on-line at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=61156. The EA and supporting documentation are also available for review from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Verde Ranger District Office, Prescott National Forest, 300 E Hwy 260, Camp Verde, AZ 86322. Additional information regarding this action can be obtained from Tom Palmer at (928) 567-1114 or by email, thomas.palmer@usda.gov.
The proposed project is an activity implementing a land management plan not authorized under the HFRA and is subject to 36 CFR 218 Subparts A and B.
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 §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 filed via mail, electronically, hand-delivery, or express delivery (Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding holidays) to: Reviewing Officer Dale Deiter, Prescott National Forest Supervisor, 735 N Hwy 89, Chino Valley, AZ 86323. Electronically filed objections may be submitted via email; objections-southwestern-prescott@usda.gov.
Objections must be submitted within 45 calendar days following the publication of this notice in the Verde Independent. 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)):
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.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.