BLM completes land acquisition to improve public access and cultural site protection near Gila Bend

The Bureau of Land Management and the Trust for Public Lands recently completed a land acquisition of 477 acres about 58 miles southwest of Phoenix. The lands, west of the Gila River and south of Buckeye, will improve recreational access to BLM lands and improve cultural site protection.  This land acquisition uses Land and Water Conservation Fund approved funds.

The acquired lands contain extensive prehistoric petroglyphs, village sites, ball courts, canals, and other artifacts and cultural resources. This area is also an access point to the Woolsey Peak Wilderness. These areas are noted for their wilderness characteristics and opportunities for primitive recreation.

The acquisition received support from tribal communities and the Arizona Game and Fish Department, as well as from academic, conservation, archaeological, and sportsmen’s organizations.  

“This acquisition supports protection of cultural sites, habitat connectivity, and public access for recreational users,” said Phoenix District Manager Elroy H. Masters. “We are excited to manage these important resources and to enhance access to America’s public lands.”  

At no cost to taxpayers, the Land and Water Conservation Fund supports increased public access to and protection for federal public lands and waters — including national parks, forests, wildlife refuges and recreation areas. The fund also provides matching grants to states to acquire and develop public parks and recreation sites.  

For additional information, contact the Lower Sonoran Field Office at 602-867-5400 or BLM_AZ_PDO@blm.gov.