Understanding RMPs (Resource Management Plans)
A Resource Management Plan is a guiding document that sets standards for site specific implementation. They are very important because they can provide an overarching scheme of protection –or development– for an entire planning area.
In order to create an RMP, the BLM must use the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process. The purpose of NEPA is to compel the government to examine the environmental implications of it’s actions as well as allow for public participation and input on such actions. RMPs require a mandatory creation of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). An RMP/EIS takes many years to create and allows for various opportunities for formal and informal public participation. This portion of our web page is dedicated to promoting greater understanding and generating informed participation in these processes.
There are several steps in the process (read The Wilderness Society’s description of the steps here) and during each step there are ways to provide input for the planning areas. It is important to get involved as early as possible and stay involved throughout the entire process. A particularly important issue to note is the formal comment periods. If there is no documented participation prior to the release of the final document, then comments on the final plan will not be accepted. Some of the big participation opportunities include:
- Pre-planning: This is a chance for informal participation and a good opportunity to get to know planners.
- Scoping: Formal input is important to help inventory the planning area and inform the planning agency what local activities take place.
- Inventory and Data Collection: While BLM is conducting analysis, there is informal opportunity to provide further local data on the areas.
- Formulating Alternatives: The BLM is putting together a range of alternatives for consideration in the planning area, typically a preliminary range of alternatives is issued to the public for input.
- Draft RMP/EIS issued: This is a chance for formal input. Comments should be written and submitted to the planning office. Be sure to address inadequacies in the plan and make recommendations for improvement.
- Proposed RMP/FEIS Issued: This is virtually the last opportunity to participate in the process. Again, formal input is required as well as participation in the form of documentable comments earlier in the planning process.
- Implement/Monitor/Evaluate the RMP: There will be more opportunity during this time period to provide site specific input. There will be a number of meetings and working groups formed to implement the final RMP. Typically this occurs over the course of several years.
- Maintain/Amend/Revise: As the plan becomes implemented it is important for those who utilize the area to evaluate the outcome and if there are issues or substantial changes in the area these are issues that should be promptly addressed. This is an informal opportunity to propose changes to the document.
During the entire RMP/EIS process, there will be informational meetings and formal hearings throughout the planning areas. It is important to attend these meetings to understand the issues and be able to provide input and ask questions.
