![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20170214004543im_/https://www.blm.gov/sites/blm.gov/files/styles/content_detail_photo/public/Bear%20Trap%20Canyon%20Wilderness%20fee%20free%20day.jpg?itok=biBZckaw)
The Bureau of Land Management, in conjunction with other agencies within the Department of the Interior, will waive recreation-related fees for visitors to public lands on four occasions in 2017.
![An oil pump. An oil pump.](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20170214004543im_/https://www.blm.gov/sites/blm.gov/files/styles/content_detail_photo/public/news_oilandgas_0.jpg?itok=bOonDpk4)
The agency is delaying for 60 days the effective date of a rule that will require online filing of permits for oil and gas drilling.
![Close-up of a Greater Sage-grouse. Close-up of a Greater Sage-grouse.](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20170214004543im_/https://www.blm.gov/sites/blm.gov/files/styles/content_detail_photo/public/news_sagegrouse_0.jpg?itok=qAGjsnPb)
The open houses will help the BLM gather input on its proposal to withdraw a subset of lands that are sage-grouse strongholds from future mining claims.
![A mining site on the public lands, with machinery. A mining site on the public lands, with machinery.](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20170214004543im_/https://www.blm.gov/sites/blm.gov/files/styles/content_detail_photo/public/news_mining_awards_1.jpg?itok=kUkTuWVe)
The awards recognize those programs created to foster sustainable development, which encourages environmental health, social responsibility, and economic security.