The Monticello BLM Field Office manages three categories of lands with wilderness characteristics:
(1) Wilderness Study Areas (WSA)
There are 13 Wilderness Study Areas (WSAs) located completely or partly in the Monticello Field Office Area, including Grand Gulch and Dark Canyon. These WSAs are managed to preserve their wilderness values according to the Interim Management Policy for Lands under Wilderness Review, and will continue to be managed in that manner until Congress either designates them as Wilderness or releases them for other uses. Only Congress can designate or release WSAs.
(2) Natural Areas
There are five BLM Natural Areas located within the Monticello FO managed to protect, maintain and preserve wilderness characteristics (appearance of naturalness and outstanding opportunities for primitive and unconfined recreation or solitude). The five Natural Areas in the Monticello FO are Grand Gulch, Nokai Dome East, Nokai Dome West, Mancos Mesa and Dark Canyon.
(3) BLM Land Administratively Endorsed for Wilderness
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