The Bureau of Land Management administers a very diverse and extensive natural and cultural resource program in the California Desert Conservation Area (CDCA). Resource management programs within the area also include the Federal management Act (FLPMA), 1980 California Desert Conservation Plan, and all of the amendments including WEMO, NEMP, NECO and DRECP. The State of California also manages many lands within the CDCA with State Parks and School Lands. Department of Fish and Wildlife and National Forest Service can also be involved. Public participation is essential for successful management of these public resources.
The PLRT formed during a turbulent period of sweeping environmental constraints applied to the Mojave desert in 1989. Amidst considerable local reaction, the Bureau of Land Management responded to public concern with an outreach plan to address these issues via the use of monthly meetings, graciously held within the regional district office at Ridgecrest CA. The group’s initial name was the Ridgecrest BLM Steering Committee, with the change in name being done in 2015. These meetings have been held almost continuously since 1989, attesting to the viability and help these meetings offer to all participants.
With the PLRT, the public has an opportunity for information exchange regarding policy definition, implementation, proposals, initiatives, etc. from the BLM directly to understand their tasking. We offer a forum to voice concerns of members in a unified manner such as through individual or group correspondence. We offer the ability to gather volunteers for assisting stakeholder’s projects if needed, and can help to increase understanding of these projects within the community.
Meetings are held with proper decorum and respect for all participants.