Article Summary –
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has adopted a rule that aims to balance conservation initiatives with commercial uses of federal land, such as oil and gas leasing and grazing. The rule, which has been applauded by conservation and environmental organizations, will allow the BLM to lease land for restoration and mitigation, helping it meet its objectives around water security, biodiversity, and climate objectives. The rule has also been criticized by commercial groups and some elected officials, who argue it disrupts the balance of land use and threatens businesses reliant on BLM land.
The New BLM Land Conservation Rule
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has introduced a new rule that ensures conservation initiatives share equal importance with commercial uses such as oil and gas leasing and grazing on federal land. BLM Director Tracy Stone-Manning stated that the rule will help manage lands effectively, ensuring multi-purpose use and sustained yield in the future.
Impact on Various Sectors
The rule has drawn praise from environmental and conservation organizations, while being criticized by the oil, gas and agricultural sectors. It will allow the BLM to lease land for “restoration” and “mitigation” to address water security, biodiversity and climate challenges.
Monitoring and Modelling
BLM Deputy Director Nada Wolff Culver suggests that the rule’s monitoring and modeling aspects will help the agency track its progress and engage with stakeholders dependent on BLM land.
An Official Shift in Land Management
The Wilderness Society applauded the decision, terming it a significant shift in natural resources management. They praised the commitment to stewardship for wildlife, Indigenous cultural sites, outdoor recreation, and clean energy.
Business Perspectives on BLM Rule
Business for Montana’s Outdoors acknowledged the rule’s alignment with the state’s $2.4 billion outdoor recreation economy, contributing towards 30,000 jobs and $1.4 billion statewide. However, Western Energy Alliance’s President criticized the rule, arguing it disrupts balance on federal lands and contradicts the Federal Land Management and Policy Act.
Criticism and Legal Challenges
Anticipated legal challenges and criticism come from several quarters, including Montana’s Attorney General, who believes the rule threatens small businesses and state interests. U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke also expressed concerns, stating the rule is a direct threat to job creation and livelihoods based on grazing, mining, and outdoor recreation.
BLM Land Management in Montana
The BLM manages over eight million acres in Montana, making it the state’s second-largest land manager. The agency initiated a 90-day public comment period on the proposal last spring, receiving more than 216,000 comments.
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