Could that scene play out at Phil\u2019s World biking park? The BLM area could also be leased for oil-and-gas development.<\/p>\n
But Montezuma County is taking steps to minimize impacts that development may have on the Cortez-area park.<\/p>\n
\u201cI would want restrictions at Phil\u2019s World so industry development does not diminish the recreation experience,\u201d said commissioner Larry Don Suckla. \u201cThat area is popular with families, provides outdoor recreation for the public, and attracts visitors that contribute to our economy.\u201d<\/p>\n
To protect the trails, the county is employing Colorado\u2019s 1041 regulations enacted in 1974. The measure allows counties to regulate areas of state interest through a local permitting process.<\/p>\n
\u201cPhil\u2019s World fits into that category and would allow us to put stipulations on development and maintain more control,\u201d Suckla said. \u201cIf the community believes the current use is greater than oil and gas, then preserving recreation should take precedence.\u201d<\/p>\n
The goal is to find ways that recreation and development can co-exist.<\/p>\n
The BLM also is proposing a master leasing plan for oil-and-gas development in La Plata and Montezuma counties, where local committees may determine if areas warrant additional regulation.<\/p>\n
The plan formed after local bikers became concerned that development could hurt Phil\u2019s World.<\/p>\n
A proposal on a county permitting process for Phil\u2019s World will take place at the planning and zoning meeting at 6 p.m. on Oct. 22. Any new rule would be in addition to the BLM permitting process for drilling.<\/p>\n