On Friday, the Bureau of Land Management finalized the Record of Decision for the Resource Management Plan of the Rock Springs Field Office. This decision came after BLM Principal Deputy Director Nada Culver rejected Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon’s appeal regarding his Consistency Review response.
Governor’s Statement: Governor Gordon expressed his disappointment with the BLM’s decision, stating that it felt like Wyoming’s input was disregarded. He criticized the timing of the Record of Decision’s release, suggesting it was rushed to coincide with the end of the Biden administration. He highlighted the extensive collaboration between various stakeholders, including state agencies and local counties, which he feels have been overlooked.
Future Actions: Governor Gordon has vowed to explore all possible avenues to contest and potentially reverse this decision. He mentioned the upcoming change in administration with President Trump and former Governor Doug Burgum at the Department of the Interior, alongside a Republican-controlled Congress, as factors that could aid in altering the course set by the current Record of Decision.
Review of the Record of Decision: In cooperation with the Wyoming Attorney General, Governor Gordon plans to review the Record of Decision in detail, particularly in light of conditions set by the Wyoming Legislature in the 2024 Budget Bill. This review will influence the decision on whether to certify the sale of the Kelly Parcel, a significant land transaction linked to the RMP’s stipulations.
