The public can weigh in on the future shape of the Haviland Lake Recreation Area. The San Juan National Forest has kicked off an environmental analysis to study the proposal, “The Hermosa Land Exchange.” In the exchange, Tamarron Properties Associates would offer 320 acres of private property, consisting of the Hermosa Park and Mitchell Lakes inholdings, to the Forest Service, in exchange for approximately 265 acres of National Forest lands adjacent to Tamarron Resort north of Durango.

The first step in the process is to ask the public to help identify the scope of issues to be studied in an environmental analysis of the proposal. To acquaint the public with the parcels and issues associated with the proposal, the agency has planned two open houses. The first is scheduled for June 21 from 3-7 p.m. in the Purgatory Village Center Community Conference Room. The second will take place on from 3-7 p.m. on June 25 at the San Juan Public Lands Center. Field trips to the parcels in question are also scheduled for June 28

& 29. In addition, the Forest Service will accept public input on the exchange through Aug.10. Comments must include the sender’s name and address and may be e-mailed to chockelberg@fs.fed.us, faxed to 884-2428 or mailed to: 

Columbine Ranger District/Field Office

Attention: Cindy  Hockelberg

P.O. Box 439, Bayfield, CO  81122

For more information on the exchange or the process, call 884-1418.