BLM approves management plan for San Juan Islands National Monument
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San Juan Islands, WA – The Bureau of Land Management announced today that the San Juan Islands National Monument Resource Management Plan (RMP) and Record of Decision (ROD) is available to review on their ePlanning site at https://eplanning.blm.gov/eplanning-ui/project/49041/570, establishing their long-term management goals for the area.
The BLM’s objectives for the monument include protecting and restoring historic and cultural resources, coordinating the management of these lands with Coast Salish tribes, government agencies, and partner organizations, and providing the public with sustainable outdoor recreation opportunities. This new management direction applies to the approximately 1,000 acres of BLM-administered public lands that make up the national monument.
“While a relatively small area, San Juan Islands National Monument includes landscapes of great beauty, as well as sensitive cultural and ecological resources,” said Kurt Pindel, BLM Spokane District Manager. “We are honored to be stewards of these lands as we implement strategies to conserve and protect the lands for the benefit of future generations.”
The approved plan includes modifications to the proposed RMP. These changes reflect input from the Washington State Office of the Governor, consulting tribes, local partner organizations, the public, and the San Juan Islands National Monument Advisory Committee.
“The BLM prepared this document in consultation with Coast Salish tribal governments, in coordination with other federal, state, and local cooperating agencies, and with an impressive level of input from the public,” said Brie Chartier, Monument Manager. “We are excited to move forward with the implementation of the RMP with continued engagement and collaboration from the public and our partners including the Coast Salish Tribes.”
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.