BLM Strategic Plan for Amphibian and Reptile Conservation

United States Department of the Interior
BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
https://www.blm.gov

April 7, 2022

In Reply Refer To:
6500 (HQ-231) P

EMS TRANSMISSION 04/26/2022
Information Bulletin No. 2022-035

To:                   All State Directors and Center Directors

From:              Assistant Director, Resources and Planning

Subject:           BLM Strategic Plan for Amphibian and Reptile Conservation

This Information Bulletin (IB) transmits the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Strategic Plan for Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (Attachment 1). The purpose of the BLM Strategic Plan for Amphibian and Reptile (Herpetofauna) Conservation is to promote herpetofauna within the agency, guide the State, District, and Field Offices in the efficient and effective management of habitats, and support the recovery of herpetofauna populations where they have declined on public lands.

The Strategy will help to implement the Federal Land Policy and Management Act’s direction to manage the public lands to provide habitat for fish and wildlife. There are more than 100 sensitive herpetofauna species and an additional 15 herpetofauna species listed under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA) that occur on BLM-managed lands. This Strategy comes at a critical time as habitat fragmentation, degradation and the effects of climate change are contributing to declines in herpetofauna species. By proactively and collaboratively contributing to the management and sustainability of herpetofauna and their habitats, the BLM will enhance recovery of ESA listed species, preclude the need for listing under the ESA, and develop and maintain partnerships, while promoting biodiversity and ecologically resilient landscapes.

Questions regarding the BLM Strategic Plan for Amphibian and Reptile Conservation should be directed to the Wildlife Program Lead (Elroy Masters, emasters@blm.gov, 602-417-9346) or other leadership in HQ230.  

Signed by:                                   Authenticated by: 
David Jenkins                             Robert M. Williams
Assistant Director                       Division of Regulatory Affairs and Directives,(HQ-630)
Resources and Planning

1 Attachment
     1 - BLM Strategic Plan for Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (22 pp)