FR 2024-31029

The document published by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) under the Department of the Interior announces the upcoming official filing of plats of survey for specific lands in Oregon. These plats are scheduled to be filed 30 days after the notice's publication date, with January 29, 2025, being the set deadline. The notice outlines how the public can access the plats and details the process for any protests against the filing. The plats can be viewed at the Oregon State Office in Portland, and a contact person, Robert Femling, is available for further inquiries.

Summary of the Document

The primary focus of this notice is on the bureaucratic process related to land surveying and the opportunity for public participation in this process. It involves the official filing of plats, which are essentially detailed maps that define land boundaries. The announcement also includes information on how the public can view or obtain these plats, setting a clear timeline for any objections.

Significant Issues and Concerns

A key concern with the document is its lack of detailed information on certain aspects, such as the cost associated with obtaining copies of the plats and specific processes for allocating funds tied to these filings. This absence of financial transparency could be significant for those interested in understanding the fiscal implications of land management activities.

Additionally, the language used to describe the protest process could be seen as complex or ambiguous, especially references to terms like "filed" and "received." This terminology, crucial for determining deadlines and actions, might not be immediately clear to all readers, potentially impacting those wishing to engage with the process.

Another concern is the lack of explicit criteria for considering protests. Without clarity on how protests are evaluated, there is room for uncertainty and potential dissatisfaction among stakeholders who rely on a predictable and transparent decision-making process.

Impact on the Public

For the general public, especially those residing in or owning land in the affected areas of Oregon, this filing could have significant implications. Landowners might be interested in reviewing how these plats affect their property boundaries or future land use possibilities. The document provides a means for public participation, allowing stakeholders to voice concerns through a formal protest process. However, the potential barriers in understanding or engaging with the protest process might deter public participation.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

Specific stakeholders, like land surveyors, developers, and landowners, might be positively or negatively impacted by these plats. For surveyors and developers, the new plats could open opportunities for development or provide clarity needed for planning. Landowners, however, might view these surveys as intrusive or contentious if the surveys indicate changes in land boundaries or rights.

Overall, while this notice represents a standard procedural step within land management, its implications are substantial for those directly affected by land boundary determinations and the public's ability to participate in governmental processes related to land governance. The document highlights the BLM's efforts to engage with the public, yet indicates areas where transparency and accessibility could be improved.