Inventoried Land with Wilderness Character (LWC) in the Battle Mountain BLM District
Current LWC Status: Proposed
Acres: 9194
State Region: West Central
County: Lander
Managing Agency:
Bureau of Land Management
Battle Mountain District Office
50 Bastian Rd. Battle Mountain, NV 89820
(775) 635-4000
Battle Mountain District BLM Website
Area Description:
The unit is comprised primarily of low rolling volcanic rims and mesas complexly dissected by inter-braided drainage systems. The lowest elevations of the unit are characterized by broad alluvial fans. Elevations in the unit vary from 6000 feet to 8300 feet. The short sagebrush plant community makes up the majority of vegetation within the unit and creates ideal habitat for pronghorns. Big sagebrush plant communities can be found in the higher elevations of the unit. The unit supports a couple of springs to support wildlife and recreational users. Raptors can often be seen soaring high above. Smaller sage birds nest here as well. This area also supports wild horses.
The vast spaces, open terrain, and incised drainage systems create an outstanding opportunity for desert-type solitude throughout this unit. The 2300 feet of vertical relief in the unit magnifies the opportunities for experiencing solitude and finding isolated spots within this unit. The volcanic tablelands dominating this unit provide opportunities for visitors to vanish by climbing over the numerous rim rock formations. The majority of the unit is comprised of convoluted landscape characterized by twisting drainages and badland formations.
Nearly every inch of this unit is accessible to the visitor with the determination and skills to traverse trackless wilderness. Game birds and wildlife are present as well, providing opportunities for viewing and excellent hunting. Chukar and antelope are two of the most outstanding species present for hunting. Scrambling routes also exist throughout the unit in the numerous volcanic rims and within badland formations along the western boundary. The area is extremely photogenic, especially late in the day when the entire unit is bathed in the colors and shadows of the setting sun. This unit provides outstanding opportunities for unlimited vistas for landscape painting, sketching, and photography. Hiking, orienteering, backpacking, rock hounding, bird and wildlife watching, primitive camping, horseback riding, burro and llama packing, hunting, and general sightseeing. This area has outstanding opportunities for primitive and unconfined recreation in hiking, exploration, wildlife watching and hunting, and photography.
The wildness, remoteness, and natural integrity of this unit provide unparalleled opportunities for studies in natural history, geology, and ecology.
