New Torrey campground? BLM wants your opinion

SALT LAKE CITY — The U.S. Bureau of Land Management is asking for public opinion on a new Torrey campground. It would be located just east of the town.

Per the BLM, it would be located off Beas Lewis Flat Road, in an area that’s already popular for dispersed camping. The area’s popularity was attributed to its proximity to Capitol Reef National Park, as well as other recreation areas. 

Dispersed camping means setting up a site on public lands in an area that is not already established. Facilities like potable water and bathrooms are not provided. 

Oftentimes, the practice allows a more isolated experience. 

Other campsites often include bathrooms, potable water, picnic tables and fire rings. Each site is different, so if you’re planning a camping trip, check for specific information. 

Torrey campground could create multiple sites

If established, the Torrey campground would open up as many as 45 campsites, as well as “associated amenities” that were not specified. 

“We’re proposing this action to proactively manage the growing impacts of dispersed camping along state Route 24, which have increased due to rising visitation in the area,” BLM Richfield Field Manager David Mortensen said. 

Additionally, the BLM said establishing a new Torrey campground could better protect the area’s natural resources. 

The BLM NEPA Register indicated that no environmental assessment has been carried out. When that information becomes available, the National Environmental Policy Act requires that it be shared with the public. 

Establishment of the act in 1970 set up criteria that federal land managers must meet to carry out a project. It often requires an environmental assessment, and sometimes an environmental impact statement. 

Additionally, NEPA requires that the public be allowed to provide comment.

Members of the public can submit comments electronically or by mail until Aug. 14.