Utilizing a National Standard Template When Developing Unit Science Plans for National Monuments (NM), National Conservation Areas (NCA), and Similar Designations

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
WASHINGTON, D.C.  20240

September 1, 2015

In Reply Refer To:
6220 (410) P
EMS TRANSMISSION 09/02/2015

Instruction Memorandum No. 2015-139
Expires: 09/30/2018

To:                   State Directors

From:               Assistant Director, National Landscape Conservation System and Community Partnerships

Subject:           Utilizing a National Standard Template When Developing Unit Science  Plans for National Monuments (NM), National Conservation Areas (NCA), and Similar Designations

Program Area:  National Landscape Conservation System (National Conservation Lands)

Purpose:  To request that State Offices utilize the national standard template when developing unit science plans for NMs, NCAs, and Similar Designations.

Policy/Action:  BLM Manual §6220 requires that a unit science plan must be developed and regularly updated for each NM, NCA, and Similar Designation in coordination with the Washington Office National Conservation Lands Science Program.  Unit science plans should utilize the template provided in Attachment 1.

The purpose of a unit science plan is to:

• highlight the unit’s landscape features and scientific significance; and
• strategically identify the science needs of the unit.

The development and implementation of unit science plans should further the conservation, protection, and restoration of the resources, objects, and values for which the NMs, NCAs, and Similar Designations were designated by identifying and prioritizing the management questions and science needs and integrating science into management decisions (BLM Manual §6220).

Time frame: This IM is effective upon receipt.

Budget Impact: The application of this policy should have a positive impact on the budget.

Background: BLM policy states that “the BLM will use the best available science in managing NLCS units” and that “science and the scientific process will inform and guide management decisions concerning NLCS units” [BLM Manual §6100(1.6)(A)(9) and (1.6)(F)(1)]. Providing a scientific foundation for decision-making is also a goal identified in the National Conservation Lands 15-Year Strategy [Goal 1C]. BLM policy also states that “each Monument and NCA must develop and regularly update a science plan in coordination with the Washington Office NLCS Science Program.” [BLM Manual §6220(1.6)(M)(3)].  Utilizing a national standard template when developing unit science plans provides a more consistent approach for incorporating the required components of a unit science plan as per BLM Manual §6220.

Manual/Handbook Sections Affected: None.

Coordination: This IM has been coordinated with the Core Science Team.

Contact: Please direct questions regarding this IM to Matt Preston, National Conservation Lands, Science Lead (202-912-7175, MPreston@blm.gov).

Signed by:                                                                                                                  Authenticated by:

Christopher J. McAlear                                                                                             Robert M. Williams
Acting, Assistant Director                                                                                         Division of IRM Governance,WO-860
National Landscape Conservation System and Community Partnerships

Attachment:

1 – Unit Science Plan template (5 pp)