Tuesday marks the end of the 90-day period for the public to comment on proposed federal regulations that could end private uses of public land at Alcova reservoir and other federal sites.

If adopted, the "Part 429" revisions to the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation would affect all private uses of the public land including grazing, cabin sites, boat docks, and other facilities, according to an Aug. 9 letter from Natrona County Road, Bridge and Parks Superintendent Mike Haigler.

While the Bureau of Reclamation owns the land, it has a lease allowing Natrona County to manage the land and collect fees to improve public facilities such as beaches and picnic sites.

In September, the bureau's area manager John Lawson urged patience and caution as people read the proposal and make their comments.

The most apparent impact for central Wyoming would be at Alcova, the revisions would affect private uses of public lands at Pathfinder, Grey Reef, Boysen and Keyhole in Wyoming. Other Bureau of Reclamation areas throughout the United States would be affected as well.

Private users at Alcova - the marina, trailer park, cabins, boat and ski clubs - have voiced their objections to the proposed revisions and urged the continuation of the current arrangement between the county and the federal government.

The Alcova Lakeview Estate Landowners, who own about 80 year-round residences west of the lake, have voiced similar concerns, citing the economic, recreational and social benefits to central Wyoming.

Reach Tom Morton at (307) 266-0592, or at Tom.Morton@casperstartribune.net.