Federal Land Policy and Management Act (FLPMA)

The Federal Land Policy and Management Act (FLPMA), enacted in 1976, governs how the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) manages public lands. It establishes policies for land use planning, ensuring public involvement and sustainable practices. FLPMA aims to balance various interests, including conservation, recreation, and resource development, while protecting the environment. It emphasizes responsible stewardship of federal lands and encourages multiple uses, meaning different activities can occur simultaneously, such as mining, grazing, and recreation, as long as they are managed wisely and sustainably.