The BLM has finalized their new method of land-use planning being called the Planning 2.0 rule. As has been consistent from the beginning, Governor Herbert and officials throughout the state are pushing back, frustrated that the change increases the voice of special interest groups early on in the land-use planning process and opens doors for more top down control. Information on the rule posted at
www.blm.gov
emphasizes that Planning 2.0 will “increase public involvement and incorporate the most current data and technology into land use planning.” Among the changes, the rule allows for early public involvement, requires a planning assessment before a land use plan is developed, and “provides the agency flexibility to plan across traditional administrative boundaries.” Critics of the rule say the new wording allows for more control from Washington, D.C. and less control from locals that actually know the land and can appropriately plan for local needs.
