Jedi Slipstream

As of June 20, 2021, after speaking with Phillip Nyland, NF Biologist, the study to date has shown no evidence of raptor nesting in the area. As a result, the NF anticipates no raptor nesting closures. If evidence of raptor nesting is found, the situation could change, but for now Lime Creek and the nearby areas are open.

The White River National Forest proposes to establish a 5-year regulation, known as a “Special Order,” that would restrict human occupancy surrounding a peregrine falcon nest site during the nesting period in Lime Creek Canyon, Eagle County, Aspen-Sopris Ranger District, potentially from May 15 to July 31 each year based on observed nesting activity.

The proposed Special Order extends a short-term restriction set forth from June to August 1, 2020 after monitoring showed the nest to be active for the fourth year from 2016-2020, and within the past two years in close proximity to popular climbing routes. The cliffs of Lime Creek Canyon are unique and have the specific resources needed for local peregrine falcons to nest, lay eggs, and rear their young. During this life stage, adults and young peregrine falcons can be disturbed by close human presence.

It is our intent to protect the area surrounding the nest site using science-based peregrine falcon information and monitoring. As possible, the restriction may allow for climbing and other human presence where this does not interfere with local peregrine falcons to nest, lay eggs, and rear their young. As possible, the area to be restricted would immediately surrounding the nest site and adjusted in location if the birds shift their nest site during the 5-year restriction period. The proposed Special Order would be lifted annually on or before August 1, depending on the status of the nest and the peregrine falcons present, and the Special Order b>would remain in effect until rescinded or until August 1, 2025, whichever event occurs first.





How to Comment

You may comment on this proposal by replying to Phil Nyland, Wildlife Biologist at (970) 404-3156, philip.nyland@usda.gov or Jennifer Schuller, Deputy District Ranger at (970) 404-3163, Jennifer.schuller@usda.gov. Please provide comments by May 24, 2021.

More information regarding the proposal, its rationale, and how to provide your comments is available by contacting the Forest Service.

fs.usda.gov/project/?projec…

Please share this invitation to comment with others that may be interested.

Thank you for your interest in the management of your public lands.

Phil Nyland
Forest Service Wildlife Biologist
White River National Forest,
Aspen-Sopris District
p: 970-404-3156
philip.nyland@usda.gov

POB 309, 620 Main St.
Carbondale, CO 81623fs.fed.us