The United States Forest Service is proposing a possible land exchange in Grand County, and is accepting public comments until Dec. 18. The Forest Service will host an open house in Fraser on Nov. 29 for residents to learn more about the proposal.

If approved, the Forest Service would exchange its 5.5 acre parcel beside Winter Park Resort, for a 50.23 acre parcel near Willow Creek owned by TMII Development.

“The proposed land to be acquired has high resource value and benefit to the public,” the Forest Service stated in a news release. “This acquisition would protect communities of special concerns, including riparian habitat, and enhances habitat for elk. It is expected to increase dispersed recreational opportunities and improves management by exchanging an inholding parcel.”

Both parcels are undeveloped and located in the Forest Service’s Sulphur Ranger District near the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests. The Forest Service’s parcel is located to the north and east of Mary Jane base area, close to the ski lifts and U.S. Highway 40. TMII Development’s parcel is located at the confluence of Pass Creek and Willow Creek, near Colorado Highway 125 and Stillwater Pass Road.

Community members can comment on the proposal’s Draft Environmental Assessment online at FS.USDA.Gov/ARP. They can also give their comments in person at the Nov. 29 meeting, which will take place at the Urban Community Meeting Room in the Fraser Valley Library from 5-7 p.m.

“The Forest Service values public participation,” the agency stated on their webpage about the land exchange. “Communications from the public regarding this project, including commenters’ names and contact information, will become part of the public record. Comments, including anonymous comments, will be accepted at any time.”

Those unable to make the meeting, or unable submit their comments electronically, can mail them to District Ranger Eric Freels, Sulphur Ranger District, P.O. Box 10, Granby, Colorado, 80446.