Search Results for keywords:"public lands management"

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has updated its procedures under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to include a new categorical exclusion (CX) for certain geothermal resource confirmation activities. This exclusion applies to activities like drilling to confirm a geothermal resource, provided they do not involve resource extraction and meet specific conditions, such as limiting surface disturbance to 20 acres and adhering to reclamation guidelines. This update aims to streamline approval processes while still protecting environmental resources, but it does not apply to geothermal power plant operations, which will undergo further review. Public feedback was considered, and changes were made to clarify the scope and requirements of the CX.

The National Park Service (NPS) has revised the rules for right-of-way (ROW) permits, which allow the use of lands and waters they manage for infrastructure like power lines and cell towers. These updates make the NPS's process more similar to other Department of the Interior bureaus, introduce pre-application meetings, and require standardized application forms. The new rules also broaden the ways to determine fair market value and highlight the need for construction permitting, address advances in technology, and align with recent laws. These changes aim to protect park resources while making the process clearer for applicants.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has announced the availability of the Record of Decision (ROD) and Approved Resource Management Plan (RMP) for North Dakota, which goes into effect immediately as of January 8, 2025. This plan guides the management of public lands in North Dakota over the next 15 to 20 years, including about 58,500 acres of surface land and 4.1 million acres of mineral estate. It updates previous management decisions involving land use and resources like mineral leasing. After considering public feedback and consulting with various stakeholders and government entities, the BLM decided to implement Alternative D as the final plan.

The Federal Subsistence Board has proposed new regulations for the 2026-27 and 2027-28 hunting and trapping seasons on federal lands in Alaska, aiming to revise the rules for subsistence wildlife management. These regulations, which happen every two years for wildlife and every other year for fish and shellfish, involve setting harvest limits, seasons, and methods for taking wildlife. Public meetings and comments are scheduled throughout 2025 to gather input from local communities and stakeholders, ensuring that any changes consider the needs and traditions of local subsistence users. Once finalized, the new regulations will replace previous rules and ensure sustainable use of wildlife resources.

The Department of the Interior, through the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), is adopting six categorical exclusions (CXs) under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) from other federal agencies like the U.S. Forest Service, National Park Service, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. These CXs relate to managing public lands, including activities like habitat improvement, land acquisition, and handling rights-of-way, without needing extensive environmental evaluations. They worked with these agencies to ensure the exclusions are appropriate, and any actions taken will be considered to avoid extraordinary circumstances that could cause significant environmental impacts. The public can view documentation of this adoption online.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is asking for public nominations for the Northern New Mexico Resource Advisory Council (RAC). This council advises the BLM on land use and management practices. Nominations are open to New Mexico residents only and must be submitted by February 18, 2025. Nominees should have knowledge and experience in relevant areas and demonstrate a commitment to joint decision-making on resource management issues.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) issued a final supplementary rule for public lands in the Tres Rios and Gunnison Field Offices in Colorado. This rule affects how motorized and non-motorized vehicles can be used, designates day-use areas, and sets rules for wildlife habitat protection, camping, and campfires. It aims to protect visitor health and safety and prevent damage to natural and cultural resources. These rules are based on previous management plans and public input, and violations can lead to fines or imprisonment.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has made available the Record of Decision (ROD) for the Lava Ridge Wind Project in Idaho, which was approved by the Department of the Interior (DOI). This decision allows Magic Valley Energy to build and operate a wind-power facility with up to 231 turbines on public lands in Jerome, Lincoln, and Minidoka counties. The project will take place on a designated area managed by the BLM and will follow specific conditions and mitigation measures as outlined in the ROD. This approval is the final decision by the DOI and cannot be appealed.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) announced the availability of a Record of Decision for the Approved Resource Management Plan Amendment for the Rock Springs Field Office in Wyoming. Signed on December 20, 2024, this decision makes the new management plan effective immediately and covers land in several counties. The plan updates how these lands are managed, balancing uses like energy development and resource protection. The proposal was subject to public commentary and protests, which resulted in no changes to the final approved plan.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is calling for public nominations to fill vacancies on the Western Montana Resource Advisory Council (RAC). This council advises the BLM on land use planning and management in the Western Montana District. Nominations are open until January 13, 2025, and must include a completed application, reference letters, and information about the nominee's qualifications. Prospective members should be Montana residents and fit into one of three categories: users of public lands, representatives of groups with environmental or historical interests, or those holding certain public offices or roles in resource management.