BLM Monticello Field Office Indian Creek Resource Protection and Recreation Improvement Project

The Monticello Field Office (MFO) has identified the Indian Creek climbing area as an area of high priority for the portion of its mission directed at protecting the climbing environment. The sport of climbing has seen significant growth in its popularity over the last 20 years and continues to see new individuals joining the community on a regular basis. With the increase of indoor facilities, the adoption into media outlets and the availability of outdoor experiences this growth will likely not diminish. Indian Creek, with its world renowned crack climbing concentration, attracts climbers from across the world. The sensitive soils, plant communities and cultural resources of the area are beginning to crack under the strain of extensive use. Although the climbing community is a respectful one, looking to impact resources as little as possible, the sheer numbers of visitors could potentially have adverse effects on the landscape. The applicant must work with the MFO to plan, implement and develop mitigation activities to limit these impacts on the surrounding environment. Objectives: The MFO would like to determine a inventory and assessment of recreations sites, priority list of projects and complete NEPA compliant implementation plans for the Indian Creek area. The MFO is seeking an applicant to assist the MFO conduct a full "current conditions" assessment of the climbing resources of Indian Creek; including parking areas, approach trails, cliffside trails, dispersed camping and maintenance needs. This assessment will assist the MFO in prioritizing areas for work to meet the goals of the Resource Management Plan (RMP), protect resources and provide quality recreation experience to visitors. Once the inventory and assessment is complete, the MFO and the applicant will jointly investigate the needs and timeline for NEPA processes to complete recommended infrastructure work (toilets, trails, etc). Public Benefit: Indian Creek Climbing Area is an internationally recognized destination climbing location. Recreation use at Indian creek has increased in the past 10 years and with increased use has come increased recreational impacts. The BLM has determined that needs exist to improve existing or provide new facilities including information materials, human waste dispensers, trails, staging areas at cliff base, camping, and parking areas to facilitate the recreational use while protecting the resources. The applicant will assist the MFO to determine work priority by a) sensitive resource concerns b) current use c) anticipated increase in use.