In Lands Identified for Disposal, the Lander Field Office Resource Management Plan (RMP) specifically identifies areas available for consideration for disposal by employing the “isolated, difficult or expensive to manage, or needed-for community expansion” disposal criteria in the Federal Land Policy and Management Act (FLPMA). The areas below were identified during development of the RMP as complying with FLPMA disposal criteria. Inclusion in Lands Identified for Disposal, does not constitute a decision that the land will be disposed. Before taking any disposal action, consideration will be given to each individual tract and will include public involvement. As stated elsewhere in the RMP, the preferred method of disposal or acquisition of lands is through exchanges. Proposals for disposal of lands not identified in Lands Identified for Disposal, will be considered if they are consistent with the objectives of the Approved RMP and could require a land use plan amendment.

FLPMA provides for retention of the public lands in federal ownership and management by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for multiple uses. FLPMA and other federal laws, executive orders, and policies suggest criteria to use when categorizing public lands for retention or disposal, and for identifying acquisition priorities. Disposal by sale, exchange, airport grant, or Recreation and Public Purposes patent remains an option if such an action would serve an important objective and have a public benefit.

Site-specific environmental review and documentation in conformance with the National Environmental Policy Act, including completion of categorical exclusions and plan conformance determinations where appropriate, will be accomplished for each proposed land program action. Interdisciplinary impact analysis will be tiered within the framework of this and other applicable environmental documents. Many of the foregoing provisions of this appendix are based on current policy. Future shifts in policy and national priorities could result in modifications of these provisions and changes in addressing priority lands actions. Land tenure adjustments must serve the public interest.

The following are suggested criteria to consider in land tenure adjustment proposals, but the list is not considered all inclusive. These criteria are meant to guide and streamline consideration of land tenure adjustment proposals. Acquisition of lands will be considered, if in compliance with the RMP, to facilitate various resource management objectives and to acquire lands with high resource values including, but not limited to:

The preferred method for acquisition will be through exchange. Acquisitions, including easements, can be completed through exchange, Land and Water Conservation Fund purchases, or donations. Acquisitions of private lands will be pursued only with willing landowners.