Advancing Science in the BLM: An Implementation Strategy

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20240
http://www.blm.gov

March 18, 2015

In Reply Refer To:

1702 (200) P
    

EMS TRANSMISSION 03/18/2015

Information Bulletin No. 2015-040

To:                   All Washington Office and Field Office Officials

From:               Director

Subject:           Advancing Science in the BLM: An Implementation Strategy

This Information Bulletin distributes the Advancing Science in the BLM: An Implementation Strategy.  The complexity of natural and cultural systems, combined with public expectations and legal dictates, make it essential for the BLM to be a “science-informed” agency. This implementation strategy will enable the Bureau to further strengthen a culture that deliberately pursues mission-oriented science and enables managers and staff to apply that science in decision making and adaptive management.  Under this strategy, the Bureau will aim to consistently use science as one of the critical inputs in its decision-making processes, at every level and in every program.

The Implementation Strategy and its case studies affirm the excellent work done by the BLM in applying science to land management issues, and it sets a course to continue and enhance these efforts. The strategy focuses our efforts around two broad goals which are:

• Goal 1: Ensure effective and consistent science integration into the BLM’s core work processes.

• Goal 2: Ensure that relevant, timely scientific information is accessible to BLM staff and managers.

This strategy was developed by a team of BLM employees sponsored by Executive Leadership Team (ELT) members Jim Kenna, California State Director, and Carl Roundtree, former Assistant Director, National Landscape Conservation and Community Partnerships.  It was vetted through the Deputy State Directors for Resources and Minerals and the Field Committee, and has been endorsed by the ELT.

As called for in the report, a National Science Committee is being established to advance science-management integration in the BLM.  The Deputy Director, Operations, BLM will solicit nominations for this committee in the near future.

If you have any questions concerning this report, please contact, Heidi Hadley, National Science Advisor, Roxanne Falise, Division of Resources Services Chief, National Operations Center or Matt Preston, Science Advisor, National Conservation Lands. Their respective emails are: hhadley@blm.gov, rfalise@blm.gov and mpreston@blm.gov.

Signed by:                                                                   Authenticated by:

Neil Kornze                                                                 Robert M. Williams

Director                                                                       Division of IRM Governance, WO-860

1 Attachment

     1— Advancing Science in the BLM: An Implementation Strategy (43 pp)