BLM California Aquatic Resources Strategic Plan

A five-year strategic plan for the Aquatic Resources Program is attached (Attachment A). The
strategic plan was developed by an interdisciplinary team from the California BLM’s Field
and District Offices, and State Office.

The Aquatic Resources Program (formerly Aquatic Habitat Management Program) was
created in 2019 following integration of the BLM’s Riparian and Fisheries Programs and the
water resource component of the Soil, Water, and Air Program. The program was renamed the
Aquatic Resources Program in 2021 to better reflect the diversity of the program’s core
functions.

This strategic plan comes at a critical time for aquatic resources on public lands. Climate
change is driving rapid ecological change, increasing wildfire occurrence, and prolonging
droughts. At the same time, the diversity and intensity of public land uses are increasing. A
renewed focus on the conservation and restoration of riparian, fisheries, and water resources is
needed to build drought and wildfire resilience and to protect water supplies and aquatic
habitats. Similarly, we need to ensure adequate human capital, technical expertise, and
management tools are available to implement the program’s core functions. Outreach and
partnerships are essential to accomplish this.

Questions about the Aquatic Resources Strategic Plan should be directed to Nina Hemphill at
nhemphill@blm.gov and (916) 978-4663 or David O’Connor at doconnor@blm.gov and
(916) 978-4642.

Signed by: 
Karen E. Mouritsen
State Director

Authenticated by:
James Barnes
GIS & Applications Mgmt. Branch, CA-946