Pew Applauds Proposed Northwest California Management Plan

WASHINGTON – The Pew Charitable Trusts today commended the US Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for the strong conservation measures in the agency’s proposed Northwest California Integrated Resource Management Plan (NCIP). The plan, released June 21, would expand conservation to 382,000 acres of unique and special lands, prioritize wildlife connectivity and include goals and actions to help the agency plan for climate change.

Through its offices in Arcata and Redding in northern California, the BLM oversees some of the nation’s most diverse and pristine lands, including redwood forests, oak forests, winding rivers and streams, and wildlife habitat. wild like bald eagles, salmon, steelhead. and sandhill cranes. These lands also have cultural significance for many tribes, provide clean drinking water for nearby communities, and sequester and store climate-warming carbon.

A public protest period, during which interested parties can register any objections, closes on July 22, with a Final Record of Decision expected in the fall.

Andy Maggi, a senior fellow with Pew’s US conservation program, issued this statement:

“The BLM has proposed strong new conservation designations, including areas of critical environmental concern, wilderness character lands, and wild and scenic rivers. These conservation measures will ensure that future generations can enjoy the solitude and wildness of the great outdoors of northwestern California.

“Since the BLM’s plans were last updated in the mid-1990s, experts have learned a lot about the devastating impacts of climate change and biodiversity loss on our lands, forests and waters—and how to address these threats. This new plan is notable for advancing strong protections for lands and waters, as well as facilitating wildlife connectivity and climate change planning.

“California state leaders have adopted a forward-thinking goal to protect 30% of the state’s lands and nearshore ocean habitats. Through the Northwest California Integrated Resource Management Plan, the BLM is now aligning its management of protected areas to count toward California’s goals.In addition, many of NCIP’s management directives align with the state’s strategy for restoring nature and landscape health to help meet climate change goals.

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Founded in 1948, The Pew Charitable Trusts use data to make a difference. Pew addresses the challenges of a changing world by illuminating issues, forging common ground, and advancing ambitious projects that lead to tangible progress.