BMan Disputes BLM Upgrades

At issue is the federal agency’s request for flush toilets, washers and dryers, hot water, air conditioning, vanity mirrors, refrigerators and couches at its on-site camp, called the Blue Pit, the Reno Gazette-Journal reported June 26. The toilets are also to be cleaned daily by Burning Man staff.

“It’s safe to say that if you were working 14 to 16 hours a day in white-out conditions on the hot playa, you don’t want them to be unrested. Safety, security and health are paramount. That, I will not forgo,” said Gene Seidlitz, the bureau’s Winnemucca District Manager.

Festival leaders have refused the request, saying those amenities alone would cost $1 million and hike its permit fees to about $5 million. Burning Man holds the largest special-recreation permit in the country, but its cost has steadily increased in recent years. In 2011, the permit fees were $858,000.

“We want to work this out. We’re getting close to the event, but we feel that there are more common-sense and cost-effective solutions,” Burning Man spokesman Jim Graham said.

BLM Deputy Director Steve Ellis issued a June 29 statement to the Gazette-Journal the agency will review its request.

“I am concerned about the reported costs associated with supporting the Burning Man festival. I have directed that BLM staff take a fresh look at the initial proposals for food and facilities at the event,” Ellis said. “Our priority is to provide for participant and employee health and safety, sanitation, and environmental compliance at this unique event that is attended by up to 80,000 people in a remote part of the Nevada Desert.

“I have full confidence in BLM staff and their ability to develop a plan that is cost efficient and ensures public health and safety.”

The festival, scheduled for Aug. 30 to Sept. 7, can accommodate up to 80,000 people and permits are typically issued weeks before.