Panel at 307 Wired debates BLM's new conservation and landscape health rule

At a public panel hosted by 307 Wired, federal, state and industry representatives debated the Bureau of Land Management's new conservation and landscape health rule, which the BLM implemented in June 2024 and which defines conservation as a valid use of public land alongside grazing, energy development and recreation.

The rule introduces two notable features: "conservation leasing" (leases for compensatory mitigation and for restoration) and a revised standard for Areas of Critical Environmental Concern, or ACECs. Supporters said the changes create new tools for restoring and protecting public lands; opponents said the changes could restrict grazing and resource development and exceed the BLM's authority.

Tracy Manning, identified at the panel as BLM director, said: "The Bureau of Land Management, often known as the BLM, implemented a new conservation and landscape health rule in June of 20 24. The rule advances the BLM's multiple use and sustained yield mission by prioritizing health and resilience of public lands." Manning said the rule emphasizes protecting "clean water and wildlife habitat, the restoration of lands and waters, and the making of informed management decisions based on science, data, and indigenous knowledge."

Environmental lawyer Brian Mallory summarized how…