The Times-Independent

BLM no longer asks climbers to avoid Indian Creek climbs


 

 

The Bureau of Land Management in a statement thanked the climbing community for its efforts in avoiding raptor nesting sites during the spring climbing season. The BLM now welcomes climbers to use any walls within the Indian Creek corridor, and no longer asks for voluntary avoidance of nesting areas.

A peregrine falcon in flight
A peregrine falcon in flight. Climbers can once again visit Indian Creek now that nesting season is over. Photo courtesy of Juan Lacruz/Wikimedia Commons

Each spring, the BLM asks climbers to voluntarily avoid routes near historic nest sites in Indian Creek. In June, the BLM confirmed no nesting activity on several walls and climbers no longer needed to avoid those walls. Minimizing disturbances during crucial egg incubation and brood-rearing periods for peregrine falcons, eagles, and other raptors is critical to successfully rearing young. A BLM wildlife biologist monitored active nests weekly throughout the season and at least two peregrine falcon pairs successfully reared and fledged chicks, according to the BLM.

Peregrine falcons are remarkable birds that nest and hunt in the cliffs surrounding Indian Creek. They can fly up to 70 mph and reach up to 200 mph in free-fall dives. However, despite their speed and agility, peregrine populations were in steep decline during the mid-20th century, and in the United States thebirds became an endangered species, according to the BLM.

Today they have rebounded strongly since the use of DDT and other chemical pesticides have been curtailed. Though no longer listed under the U.S. Endangered Species Act, the peregrine falcon is still a protected species. Voluntarily avoiding climbing routes with historical and active nests helps protect raptors and reduces the need for mandatory restrictions, officials say.

For questions about raptors, contact BLM wildlife biologist Thomas Plank. For questions about climbing and recreation in the Indian Creek area, contact BLM outdoor recreation planner Jason Byrd. Both can be reached at the Monticello Field Office at 435-587-1500.

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