Public input on the draft CCP will help the Service prepare a final CCP that, when completed, will guide management for the three refuges for the next 15 years. The draft CCP/EA proposes a number of goals, objectives and strategies that will enhance wildlife conservation, including the following highlights:
Hopper Mountain NWR, established in 1974 and encompassing 2,471 contiguous acres in Ventura County, just northeast of Fillmore, will increase condor management, increase outreach, and collect baseline data on resources with an emphasis on special status species.
Bitter Creek NWR, established in 1985 and encompassing nearly 14,097 acres approximately 10 miles southwest of Maricopa where Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo and Kern counties meet, will increase condor management, utilize grazing and other methods to improve habitat for special status species, and restore some springs and drainages. In addition, visitor services at the refuge will expand, including the opening of a new interpretive birding trail for the public.
Blue Ridge NWR, established in 1982 and encompassing 897 acres in central Tulare County 11 miles north of Springville, will increase condor management, collect baseline data for special status species, and add volunteer opportunities. Also, portions of the refuge will be opened for public use with a new interpretive trail system.
The draft CCP/EA is available online. To obtain a CD copy or to submit written comments on the draft CCP/EA, contact: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Pacific Southwest Region, Refuge Planning, Attn: Sandy Osborn, 2800 Cottage Way, Suite W-1832, Sacramento, CA, 95825; fax 916-414-6497 or e-mail fw8plancomments@fws.gov.
To assist in the comment gathering process, open house-style public meetings will take place in Ventura and Taft, Calif. Further details for these public meetings will be announced in the coming weeks.
More information about the CCP and public meetings is available by contacting Michael Woodbridge, Hopper Mountain NWR Complex, at (805) 644-5185 or visiting the NWR website.
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, and plants and their habitats for the continued benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.