On September 4, Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum announced a Secretary’s Order to guide its implementation of the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), particularly focusing on LWCF grants as well as the acquisition of federal lands. Secretary’s Order 3442 provides 12 items of policy changes for the State LWCF Program, outlining specific ways in which the state grant funds can be used. Included in this are to allow for funding for state wildlife conservation efforts through the Endangered Species Act and State Wildlife Action Plans, as well as creating wetlands, increasing access and connectivity between state and federal lands, developing recreational shooting facilities, improving big game winter range and migration corridor habitat, and others. The Order also provides six policy changes through the Federal program to prioritize acquisitions for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Park Service, to outline that acquisitions must be voluntary with willing sellers, and identify specific criteria prior to proceeding with the transaction, and outlining consideration for easements as well. In addition, the Order notes that any acquisition must have written support from the Governor and local county officials.

The press release notes, “The Secretary’s Order directs Interior bureaus to work closely with state and tribal governments to ensure LWCF investments support outdoor recreation infrastructure and expand opportunities in underserved and urban communities. Projects that benefit wildlife habitat, improve water quality and provide flood protection while creating new recreational opportunities will be prioritized.”