Description: This dataset was created to facilitate the BLM Greater Sage-Grouse Land Use Planning Strategy in the Utah Sub-Region. This data was developed and addressed, and used during preparation of the draft and final environmental impact statements and the record of decision to amend 14 BLM land use plans throughout the State of Utah. This planning process was initiated through issuance of a Notice of Intent published on December 6, 2011. This dataset is associated with the Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan Amendments for the Great Basin Region, released to the public via a Notice of Availability on September 24, 2015. The purpose of the planning process was to address protection of greater sage-grouse, in partial response to a March 2010 decision by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) that found the greater sage-grouse was eligible for listing under the authorities of the Endangered Species Act. The planning process resulted in the preparation of a draft environmental impact statement (DEIS) and final environmental impact statement (FEIS) in close coordination with cooperating agencies for the planning effort. The planning effort addressed the adequacy of regulatory mechanisms found in the land use plans, as well as addressing the myriad threats to grouse and their habitat that were identified by the FWS. The concept of population areas was developed to improve the organization and structure of the environmental documents. Using the population area concept, the BLM and Forest Service were able to discuss differences in habitat, threats, and impacts in different sections of the planning area by simply referencing the population area. These are for reference purposes only, and are not specifically developed to reflect genetic connectivity or distinct greater sage-grouse populations.
Copyright Text: Bureau of Land Management Utah State Office