Canyons of the Ancients RMPA/EIS, Dolores and Montezuma Counties, Colorado

E & E prepared an RMP and EIS for BLM’s Canyons of the Ancients Planning Area, a National Monument with unique cultural value due to the thousands of pre-historic archaeological sites associated with ancient puebloan (“Anasazi”) cultures. The documents address current issues as well as projected future impacts of several leasing scenarios on the Canyon’s natural, physical, cultural, and recreational resources. One current issue is managing carbon dioxide (CO2) leases.  E & E is evaluating the impact of wells and associated flow lines, compressor stations, and pipelines within the Canyons operated by Kinder Morgan that are extracting CO2 for enhanced oil recovery projects. Another major issue is conflict between preservation/restoration and recreational uses.  E & E has worked closely with BLM resource experts to develop detailed alternatives.  The process included intensive, multi-day workshops and Advisory Committee meetings that included representatives of various stakeholder groups.