ATTACH 7B.4..pdf

Natural Resources Management Playbook Consolidated PDF

Date of Playbook Consolidation: 02 October 2014

Note: Please check the Playbook on the CE Portal for the most updated version. Updates are communicated through the “Playbook Updates” list on the right hand side of each Playbook.

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SECTION J - ATTACH 7E

Natural Resources Management – Overview

Introduction Purpose and Goals Roles and Responsibilities Organization of the Natural Resources Management Playbook Natural Resources Management Playbook Scope Introduction of Natural Resources Management

Introduction to the Natural Resources Management Playbook

Natural Resources Management Playbook Purpose, Goals, and Scope

In accordance with Air Force Instruction (AFI) 32-7064, Integrated Natural Resources Management, and the Sikes Act, Air Force installations must develop and implement an all-inclusive Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan (INRMP) that complies with Federal and applicable State and local laws relating to environmental protection. The INRMP addresses all activities on an installation that may affect, or are related to, the conservation of natural resources, and includes goals and objectives intended to concurrently sustain the military mission and ecosystem integrity. The INRMP is coordinated with appropriate federal, state and local stakeholders, signed by the installation commander, and become the basis for all future natural resources management activities.

Playbook Purpose and Goals

The purposes of this Playbook is to document business processes and enable stakeholders and involved role players to understand the process; how it is performed, communicated, and resourced; and who is responsible for performing each process step. Natural resources management program planning, programming, budgeting, and execution are outlined in this Playbook. This Playbook indicates the processes that should be utilized at all levels of the Air Force to prepare and implement an INRMP and comply with all environmental policies and regulations. (The list of applicable policies and regulations can be found in the references.)

Natural Resource Management is an integral part of the overall Environmental Management System (EMS), and adheres to the Plan, Do, Check, Act (PDCA) cycle. Each process is aligned to one or more phases in this cycle.

Natural Resources Management links, overlaps, and incorporates other Environmental and Playbook processes such as the Environmental Impact Analysis Plan (EIAP), Environmental Compliance Assessment and Management Program (ECAMP), Air Quality, and the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) as part of Environmental Restoration Program (ERP).

For more information on the processes and Playbooks listed above, see the Civil Engineer (CE) Portal or the functional eDASH pages.

Playbook Roles and Responsibilities

The major roles and responsibilities include:

Internal:

• The Secretary of the Air Force (SAF) is the Air Force Natural Resources Trustee, oversees the natural resources program, coordinates Air Force natural resources management issues with other military services, and approves establishment of conservation banks, wetland banks, or other property easements on Air Force property for the purpose of mitigation for activities that affect natural resources

• Air Staff executes policy, allocates resources, advocates for resources, and oversees execution of Air Force natural resources programs

• Air Force Civil Engineer Center (AFCEC) staffs a natural resources Subject Matter Expert (SME) as the natural resources program manager, advocates for resources required to implement approved installation INRMP, and administers the reimbursable forestry, agricultural and grazing, and fish and wildlife account programs

• The Installation Support Team (IST) and/or the Regional Support Team (RST) assists and supports AFCEC and the installation if a Natural Resources Manager (NRM) is not present

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• Installation or Wing Commander is the ultimate authority to approve the INRMP, certify the INRMP is current

• Installation NRM prepares, coordinates, and implements the installation INRMP and advises/supports Air Force leadership on compliance with natural resources laws and regulations

External:

• Unites States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) cooperates with the Air Force to prepare and coordinate the INRMP and ensure it remains up to date

• National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) cooperates with the Air Force on INRMP preparation and coordination for installations that include or border marine environments

• The State or Local Wildlife Agencies cooperates with the Air Force on INRMP preparation, coordination, and INRMP revisions

• The United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) validates wetlands jurisdiction, verifies wetland delineation, and administers the nationwide permit process

Organization of the Natural Resources Management Playbook

The Natural Resources Management Playbook is organized and categorized in alignment with the EMS Plan, Do, Check, Act cycle, as noted below. The Natural Resources Management Playbook covers a wide variety of processes and procedures, and Playbook owners have developed maps and/or narratives for the most pertinent or pressing topics.

However, due to resource constraints and the large scope of Natural Resources topics, at this time, some processes are listed as “in development.” Users are encouraged to submit change requests on the CE Portal in order to contribute to the development of these documents at any time.

Playbook Section - High Level

Playbook Sub-Section

1.0 Review INRMP

(Plan, Do, Check)

1.1 Determine Need for INRMP (Do, Check)

1.2 Determine Category II Validation (Do)

1.3 Conduct Annual INRMP Review and Update or Revise (Plan, Do, Check)

2.0 Manage Programs

(Plan, Do, Check, Act)

2.1 Manage Inventory (Do) 2.1.1 Manage Environmental Functional Data Set (Do)

2.1.2 Collect Data (Do)

2.2 Develop Ad-hoc Monitoring Report (Plan, Do, Check, Act)

2.3 Establish Agricultural Outgrants (Plan, Do, Check)

2.4 Manage Bird/Wildlife Aircraft Strike Hazard (N/A)

2.5 Manage Coastal and

Marine Resources (Plan, Do, Act)

2.5.1 Develop Coastal Zone Determination (Plan, Do)

2.5.2 Administer Marine Mammal Protection Act (Act)

2.5.3 Observe Magnuson-Stevens Act/Consult for Essential Fish Habitat (Do)

2.5.4 Ensure Coral Reef Protection (N/A)

2.6 Administer Conservation

Law Enforcement (Do)

2.6.1 Coordinate CLEO Training (Do)

2.6.2 Issue Badge and Credentials (Do)

2.6.3 Receive Other Law Enforcement Training (Do)

2.7 Manage Airfield Vegetation (N/A)

2.8 Manage Cooperative Conservation (Do)

2.9 Administer Fish and

Wildlife Program (Do)

2.9.1 Manage Hunting and Fishing

Program (Do)

2.9.1.2 Determine Access Areas and Allowable Part

(Do)

2.9.1.4 Develop and Revise Rules and Regulations (

2.9.1.5 Determine Fee Schedule (Do)

2.9.1.6 Establish or Revise Wing/Installation Instruct

2.9.2 Control and Manage Wildlife(Do)

2.9.3 Coordinate Regarding Chemical Immobilizations (N/A)

2.10 Establish and Manage

Forestry Program (Plan, Do, Check)

2.10.11 Prepare Forest Product Sale (small & large lot) (Plan, Do, Check)

2.11 Manage Emergency

Response and Investigation (N/A)

2.11.1 Initiate Burn Area Emergency Response (N/A)

2.11.2 Respond to Natural Resources Injury (ERP/MMRP) (N/A)

2.11.3 Respond to Natural Disasters (N/A)

2.12 Manage Invasive Species

(Plan, Do Check, Act)

2.12.1 Perform Invasive Species Analysis and Map/Mark Infested Areas (Plan, Do)

2.12.2 Monitor and Implement

Invasive Species Strategy (Plan, Do)

2.12.2.1 Coordinate with Ground Maintenance (Do)

2.12.2.2 Administer Species Control (IPM)/Pest

Management (Plan, Do, Act)

2.12.2.3 Coordinate with Golf Courses/NAF (Plan, D

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2.12.2.4 Coordinate with ERP/MMRP (Plan, Do, Act

2.13 Conduct Land

Management (Plan, Do Check, Act)

2.13.1 Conduct Urban Forest Inventory (N/A)

2.13.2 Determine Land Use Categories (Do, Act)

2.13.3 Establish and Maintain Landscaping and Grounds (Plan, Do)

2.13.4 Manage Natural Areas (Check)

2.13.5 Assess Storm Damage (Do, Check)

2.13.6 Lease for Minerals, Oil and Gas (N/A)

2.13.7 Conduct Golf Course Environmental Management (N/A)

2.13.8 Manage Enhanced Use Lease (EUL) (N/A)

2.13.9 Update Urban Forest Management Actions (Act)

2.14 Observe Migratory Bird

Treaty Act (Plan, Do, Check, Act)

2.14.1 Obtain Depredation Permits (Do)

2.14.2 Obtain Salvage Permits (Do)

2.14.3 Obtain Scientific Permits (Plan, Check, Act)

2.14.4 Observe Bald and Golden Eagle Act (Plan, Do)

2.15 Manage Outdoor

Recreation (Do)

2.15.1 Establish Recreational Use Areas (Do)

2.15.2 Manage Off-road Vehicle Use (Do)

2.15.3 Maintain in Watchable Wildlife Program (N/A)

2.16 Monitor Threatened and

Endangered Species (Plan, Do, Check)

2.16.1 Conduct Threatened and Endangered Species Survey (Plan, Check)

2.16.2 Consider Critical Habitat Needs (Do, Check)

2.16.3 Review Federal Register Response (Do)

2.16.4 Manage Species at Risk (Plan, Check)

2.16.5 Consider Translocation of Species (Do, Check)

2.16.6 Organize Recovery Planning (Plan, Do)

2.17 Manage Wetlands and

Floodplains (Plan, Do)

2.17.1 Ensure Watershed Protection (N/A)

2.17.2 Protect Floodplains (Do)

2.17.3 Manage Wetlands (N/A) 2.17.3.1 Identify Wetlands (Do)

2.17.3.2 Determine Impacts on Wetlands (Plan)

2.18 Administer Wildland Fire

Management (Plan, Do)

2.18.1 Develop and Update Wildland Fire Management Plan (Plan)

2.18.2 Obtain Wildland Fire Training Certification (N/A)

2.18.3 Plan and Execute Prescribed Burn Plan (N/A)

2.18.4 Manage Smoke (N/A)

3.0 Manage Resources

(Plan, Do, Check, Act)

3.1 Develop Cooperative

Agreements (N/A)

3.1.1 Manage Federal Cooperative Agreements (N/A)

3.1.2 Manage State, Local, NGOs, CESUs Cooperative Agreements (N/A)

3.2 Obtain Equipment and

Vehicles (N/A)

3.2.1 Lease Vehicles (N/A)

3.2.2 Purchase Vehicle (N/A)

3.2.3 Manage Equipment TOA (N/A)

3.3 Fund Natural Resources

Requirements (Plan, Do, Check, Act)

3.3.5 Develop Budget for Reimbursable Funds (Plan)

3.3.7 Budget and Receive Forest Reserve Account Funds (Plan, Do)

3.3.8 Manage Reimbursable Funds (Do, Check, Act)

3.3.9 Process Hunting and Fishing License Payments (Do)

3.3.10 Process Forest Product Sales Payments (Do)

3.3.11 Process Agricultural Outlease Payments (Do)

3.3.13 Obtain Forest Health Protection Funds (Plan, Do)

3.3.14 is Consider Other Funds (Plan, Do)

3.4 Manage Manpower (Do) 3.4.3 Establish Manpower Support via Government Cooperative Agreement (Do)

3.4.4 Establish Non-Government Manpower Support (Do)

3.4.5 Supervise Pathways/PALACE Acquire (N/A)

3.4.6 Maintain Support with Student Conservation Association (N/A)

3.4.7 Manage Volunteers (N/A)

4.0 Coordinate

Interagency Regulatory Compliance and Permitting (Plan, Do, Check)

4.1 Administer Wetlands

Permitting (Do)

4.1.10 Apply for State CWA 401 Certification (Do)

4.1.11 Apply for CWA Section 404 Permit (Do)

4.2 Coordinate ESA Wildlife Permitting (Do)

4.3 Consider State

Requirements and Regulations (Do)

4.3.1 Obtain State Depredation Permits (Do)

4.3.2 Obtain State Scientific Handling Permits (Do)

4.3.3 Obtain State Educational Display Permits (Do)

4.3.4 Obtain Burn Permits (Do)

4.4 Contribute to EIAP/NEPA (Plan, Do)

4.5 Evaluate and Assess Program (Check)

4.6 Manage Treaty Obligations, Native American Religious Freedom Act (N/A)

5.0 Conduct Reporting

(Do)

5.1 Report T&E Expenditures (N/A)

5.2 Report Pesticide Usage (N/A)

6.0 Receive Education and Training

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(N/A)

7.0 Manage Public

Relations (N/A)

7.1 Develop Internal PR (N/A)

7.2 Develop External PR (N/A)

Natural Resources Management Playbook Scope

Limitation. This Playbook does not replace, supersede, or circumvent existing Department of Defense (DoD) or Air Force policy.

Applicability. This Playbook has been updated to incorporate changes resulting from CE Transformation.

Introduction of Natural Resources Management

About Natural Resources Management

Natural Resources are valuable assets of the United States Air Force, and provide the natural infrastructure needed for testing weapons and technology, and to train military personnel for deployment; increasing the effectiveness of the Air Force adaptability in all environments. The Air Force has stewardship responsibility over the physical lands on which installations are located to ensure all Natural Resources are properly conserved, protected, and used in sustainable ways.

Air Force installations develop and implement INRMPs to effectively maintain Natural Resources in a sustainable manor supporting the Air Force’s mission and goals.

Natural Resources Management Mission and Goals

In coordination with the AFCEC Environmental Center of Excellence (AFCEC/CZ), Air Force installations protect, preserve, maintain, and manage natural resources by developing and implementing INRMPs with stakeholders, federal, and state/local agencies. The INRMP is an all-inclusive plan and tool used to ensure that installations appropriately govern natural resources in coordination with the goals of various plans and programs, and is compliant with policies, regulations, and laws applicable to each installation.

Drivers of Natural Resources Management Playbook

Program Action Directive (PAD) 12-03: Accelerates the CE transformation in a constrained budget environment by implementing efficient and cost-cutting initiatives.

The Sikes Act 16 United States Code (USC) § 670 et seq.: Requires military installations to conserve and rehabilitate natural resources by establishing and implementing an INRMP.

DoD Instruction (DoDI) 4715.03, Natural Resources Conservation Program: Formalizes policies and procedures for the integrated management of natural resources including lands, air, waters, coastal, and nearshore areas managed or controlled by DoD.

DoD Manual 4715.03, Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan (INRMP) Implementation Manual:

Establishes guidance to implement and manage natural resources on installations.

42 USC § 4321 et seq., National Environmental Policy (NEPA): Ensures the protection of natural resources when federal agencies propose activities which may cause environmental harm.

AFI 32-7001, Environmental Management: Establishes a framework and guidance for Air Force installations to development and maintain an Environmental Management System (EMS).

AFPD 32-70, Environmental Quality: Ensures Air Force installations will maintain environmental quality by cleaning up the environment, conducting activities in accordance with environmental policies, managing natural and cultural resources, and establishing an Air Force Environmental Quality Program.

Executive Order (EO) 13148, Greening the Government through Leadership in Environmental Management:

Requires Federal Agencies to ensure operations, planning, and management procedures are fundamentally based

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with environmental management consideration to promote sustainability and reduce adverse impacts to the natural environment.

AFI 32-7064: Mandates that all Air Force installations with significant natural resources must establish, implement, and maintain an INRMP for the installation.

NOTE: Users may submit or request updates and changes to the Natural Resources Playbook on the CE Portal. To do so, click “Submit Comments and Feedback” at the top of the page. Playbooks are intended to be living documents, which are changed and updated by users in an on-going basis.

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Natural Resources Management – High Level

Narrative

The environment and subsequent natural resources are important components of the Air Force to achieve its mission of installation sustainability. Sustainability is the process of ensuring a balance between using natural resources and the rate of replenishment. In many cases, natural resources require management, protection, maintenance, and development to assure future use and support installation and stakeholder dependency. The Air Force institutes the following processes to support sustainability and protect the environment at and around installations.

Process 1.0 – Review INRMP

The Air Force cannot complete its mission to “fly, fight, and win” without people to fly or fight and a physical location for a base of operation. Because of reliance on the environment, the Air Force has taken the responsibility to preserve and maintain a sustainable environment as part of its mission. Understanding the significance of the environment, specifically natural resources, and human interdependency in relation to the overall goals of the United States Air Force is paramount for defining mission success. The Sikes Act (16 United States Code [U.S.C.] 670 et seq.) requires that military installations with significant natural resources complete, develop, and implement an Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan (INRMP), which is a tool for managing and sustaining all installation natural resources.

Process 2.0 – Manage Programs

Natural resources management is a program comprised of numerous programs involving Air Force installation personnel and stakeholders at various levels, as natural resources are all encompassing parts of the environment.

Natural resources programs need to be developed, updated, and maintained to ensure federal and state legal compliance, stakeholder coordination, and installation sustainability. This process includes a wide range of natural resources management programs and processes.

Process 3.0 – Manage Resources

Resources, such as funding, require allocation and management to ensure natural resources programs are effectively and efficiently developed, maintained, and managed. Resource collection is part of the allocation and management process in that programs can be sources of revenue and should be self-sustaining. Resources for programs can be, but are not limited to; funding, personnel, permits, contracts, cooperative agreements, equipment, forest products, and leases.

Process 4.0 – Coordinate Interagency Regulatory Compliance and Permitting

Various federal and state laws and regulations require coordination approvals of certain activities (prescribed burning, depredation hunting, water discharge, etc.). As indicated in the applicable process maps, the Air Force will coordinate with regulatory agencies as required by law and ensure compliance between the installations and state/local and federal agencies.

Process 5.0 – Conduct Reporting

Installation Natural Resources Managers (NRMs) are responsible for providing data regarding program activities and condition of natural resources for the Defense Environmental Programs Annual Report (DEPARC), annual Environment, Safety and Occupational Health (ESOH) Council briefing, and other topical regulatory and Air Force requirements. Additionally, most federal permits require specific reporting to the permitting agency. Reporting

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processes explain how to develop and submit this information to the proper regulating bodies and authorities. More information can be found in the Environmental Reporting Playbook.

Process 6.0 – Receive Education and Training

Air Force Installation NRMs, Installation Support Team (IST)/Regional Support Team (RST) specialists, and other natural resources support personnel may need to receive specific training and certifications to meet the requirements of their installation. Training and certification may be necessary to maintain a level of competence in relevant areas as installation needs change, or to fulfill a permitting requirement.

Process 7.0 – Manage Public Relations

Natural Resources Management intersects with nearly every other installation activity, project, and a wide variety of external parties. Installation NRMs must understand how to manage internal and external public relations in order to properly maintain and protect Air Force natural resources, while supporting the mission and important stakeholder activities.

Natural Resources Management – (Plan, Do, Check) – 1.0 Review INRMP

The United States Air Force cannot complete its mission to “fly, fight, and win” without people to fly or fight and a physical location for a base of operation. Due to reliance on the environment, the Air Force has taken the responsibility to preserve and maintain sustainable environmental practices as part of its mission. Understanding the significance of the environment and natural resources is paramount because of human interdependency and its relation to the overall goals of the Air Force for defining mission success. In accordance with Air Force Instruction (AFI) 32-7064, Integrated Natural Resources Management, “the primary objective of the Air Force natural resources programs is to sustain, restore and modernize natural infrastructure to ensure operational capability and no net loss in the capability of Air Force lands to support the military mission of the installation”. The Sikes Act (16 Unites States Code [USC] 670 et seq.) requires that military installations with significant natural resources complete, develop, and implement an Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan (INRMP), which is a tool for managing and sustaining installation natural resources.

Start.

Process 1.1 – Determine Need for INRMP

The Sikes Act requires that military installations with significant natural resources complete the development and implementation of an INRMP to protect, maintain, and preserve natural resources on and around the installation. The Air Force uses Category I and II criteria defined in the process steps to determine whether significant natural resources exist on an installation or not. Installation natural resources staff consults with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the state fish and wildlife management agency when determining whether sufficient natural resources exist to warrant an INRMP. A request for status change must provide justification in accordance with Category I and II criteria and include documentation showing any concurrence with the proposed change in status by the USFWS and state fish and wildlife agency. The Air Force Civil Engineer Center (AFCEC) makes the final decision on whether an INRMP is required or not.

Proceed to Process 1.2 Determine Category II Validation or Process 1.3 Conduct Annual INRMP Review and Update or Revise.

Process 1.2 – Determine Category II Validation

In accordance with AFI 32-7064, an installation with a Category II Determination is not required to develop or implement an INRMP. Category II installations are exempt from creating an INRMP due to the absence of significant natural resources as defined by the Category I criteria. Air Staff and AFCEC validate a Category II status after considering justifications and documentations from the installation. The installation or Wing Commander may request to change a previous category determination for an installation by submitting a change request to AFCEC. A request for status change must provide justification in accordance with Category I and II criteria and include documentation showing any agreement to the proposed change in status by the USFWS and state or local fish and wildlife agency, and if the installation includes or borders marine environments, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)/National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS).

Not all Air Force installations have significant natural resources that need protection, maintenance, or preservation.

When such instances exist, the installation can request permission from Air Staff and AFCEC to forego developing an INRMP; however, installations are still required to develop and implement an Environmental Management System (EMS) as directed by Executive Order (EO) 13148, Greening the Government Through Leadership in Environmental Management.

Proceed to Process 1.3 Conduct Annual INRMP Review and Update or Revise.

Process 1.3 – Conduct Annual INRMP Review and Update or Revise

The installation’s INRMP requires annual updates, in accordance with Department of Defense Instruction (DoDI) 4715.03, Natural Resources Conservation Program, the Sikes Act (16 United States Code [USC] 670 et seq.), and Air Force Instruction (AFI) 32-7064, Integrated Natural Resources Management, to ensure the achievement of mission goals, verify the implementation of improvements, and establish new projections. This process involves installation natural resources personnel and external agencies working in coordination to develop, update, and revise an INRMP.

Proceed to Process 3.3 Fund Natural Resources Requirements and Process 2.0 Manage Programs.

Natural Resources Management – (Plan, Do, Check) – 1.0 Review INRMP

Determine Need for an

INRMP

1.1 Determine Category II Validation

1.2

Conduct Annual

INRMP

Review and Update or

Revise

1.3

Manage Programs

2.0

= Predefined Process

= Decision Point

= Manual Activity

Shape Key

= On-Page Connector

= Out of Scope Process

= Off-Page Connector

= Start & End

= Automated Activity

= Document

= Phase> = Annotation

= High Level Process

Start

Fund Natural Resources

Requirements

3.3

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Natural Resources Management – (Do, Check) – 1.1 Determine Need for INRMP

Roles and Responsibilities

Air Force installations consist of built and natural infrastructure, and installation occupants must maintain natural infrastructure, flora, and fauna on and around the installation just as they take care of buildings, lighting, vehicles, etc. To maintain installations and comply with Department of Defense (DoD) and federal policies, the Air Force directs installations to identify significant natural resources affected by operations and determine the need to manage, maintain, and preserve them.

The Sikes Act (16 United States Code [USC] 670 et seq.) requires military installations with significant natural resources to complete the development and implementation of an Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan (INRMP) to protect, maintain, and preserve natural resources on and around the installation. Installation staff uses the Category I and II criteria defined in the process steps to determine whether significant natural resources exist on and around an installation. The United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), if applicable the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), and state or local agencies, are consulted when determining if sufficient natural resources exist to warrant an INRMP. A request for status change must provide justification in accordance with Category I and Category II criteria, as well as, including documentation showing any concurrence with the proposed change in status by the USFWS and state or local agencies. Air Staff and the Air Force Civil Engineer Center (AFCEC) make the final decision on INRMP requirements.

ROLES RESPONSIBILITIES

USFWS/NMFS Consults with the Natural Resources Manager Installation Support Team and assesses present natural resources Consults with the NRM/IST and determines if threatened and endangered (T&E) species are potentially present Consults with the NRM/IST and determines if wetlands are present Consults with the NRM/IST and determines if potential forestry operations are present Consults with the NRM/IST and determines if potential agricultural outgrants are present Consults with the NRM/IST and determines if land management is required to support military operations Consults with the NRM/IST and determines if unique biological resources are present Consults with the NRM/IST and determines if there are significant Bird/Wildlife Aircraft Strike

Hazard (BASH) issues State/Local Agencies

Consults with the NRM/IST and assesses present natural resources Consults with the NRM/IST and determines if T&E species are potentially present Consults with the NRM/IST and determines if wetlands are present Consults with the NRM/IST and determines if potential forestry operations are present Consults with the NRM/IST and determines if potential agricultural outgrants present Consults with the NRM/IST and determines if land management is required to support military operations Consults with the NRM/IST and determines if unique biological resources are present Consults with the NRM/IST and determines if there are significant BASH issues

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NRM/IST Assesses in consultation with USFWS/NMFS and State/Local Agencies present natural resources

Determines in consultation with USFWS/NMFS and State/Local Agencies if T&E species are potentially present

Determines in consultation with USFWS/NMFS and State/Local Agencies if wetlands are present

Determines in consultation with USFWS/NMFS and State/Local Agencies if potential forestry operations are present

Determines in consultation with USFWS/NMFS and State/Local Agencies if potential agricultural outgrants are present

Determines in consultation with USFWS/NMFS and State/Local Agencies if land management is required to support military operations

Determines in consultation with USFWS/NMFS and State/Local Agencies if unique biological resources are present

Determines in consultation with USFWS/NMFS and State/Local Agencies if there are significant BASH issues

Step 1.1.1 – Assess natural resources present Role: USFWS/NMFS, State/Local Agencies, NRM/IST

Category I installations have significant natural resources that require protection, management, and an INRMP.

Installation size (acreage) is not a deciding factor in determining the need for an INRMP. The NRM/IST consults with the respective state or local agencies, the USFWS, and the NMFS (if applicable) to assess if significant natural resources are present through subsequent Decision Points 1.1.3 - 1.1.10 (below). If natural resources are present (‘Yes’ for any subsequent decision below), the installation is required to develop an INRMP.

Proceed to Step 1.1.2 and Decision 1.1.3.

Step 1.1.2 – Provide/receive data Role: NRM/IST

Concurrent with Step 1.1.1, the NRM/IST stores data according to installation standard during the assessment of natural resources. The installation is responsible for keeping the data already available or created during the assessment process.

Proceed to Step 1.1.1.

Decision 1.1.3 – Are T&E species potentially present?

The NRM/IST determines, in accordance with the Endangered Species Act (ESA) (16 USC § 1531-1544), if any species listed as threatened or endangered are present, or potentially present, on the installation and/or if any designated critical habitats exists, or is currently proposed for designation, on the installation. The installation should consult with the USFWS, NMFS, State or Local agencies, and the State Natural Heritage Program to determine the potential presence of any T&E species on the installation.

If ‘Yes,’ proceed to Process 1.3 Conduct Annual INRMP Review and Update or Revise.

If ‘No,’ proceed to Decision 1.1.4.

Decision 1.1.4 – Determine if wetlands are present?

The NRM/IST is responsible for determining the location of wetlands on the installation, as well as whether any current or future military operations have the potential to affect the wetlands. The NRM/IST consults with the USFWS/NMFS, the state or local agency, and reviews the National Wetlands Inventory maps to determine where wetlands exist. The NRM/IST consults with the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Regulatory Branch, to identify if the status of a particular wetland is questionable. The NRM/IST consults with the installation Planner and reviews the Installation Development Plan (IDP) to determine if current or future activities may affect installation wetlands. An INRMP may not be required if there is no current or proposed future action that may affect installation wetlands. An INRMP will be required if installation operations will require monitoring and management of wetlands to ensure compliance with the Clean Water Act.

If ‘No,’ proceed to Decision 1.1.5.

Decision 1.1.5 – Identify potential hunting and fishing programs?

The NRM/IST in consultation with the USFWS/NMFS and the state or local agencies determines whether to allow hunting, fishing, or other natural resources-based outdoor recreation activities (e.g., off-road vehicle use) on the installation, or if it intends to do so in the foreseeable future.

If ‘No,’ proceed to Decision 1.1.6.

Decision 1.1.6 – Determine potential forestry operations?

The NRM/IST in consultation with the USFWS/NMFS and the state or local agencies determines whether to operate a commercial forestry program, or intends to do so in the foreseeable future. This also includes whether it will manage other non-urban forest lands in support of: readiness and training activities, maintaining forest health, or other ecosystem management goals and objectives.

If ‘No,’ proceed to Decision 1.1.7.

Decision 1.1.7 – Determine potential agricultural outgrants?

In consultation with the USFWS/NMFS and the state or local agencies, the NRM/IST operates outgrants (leases, licenses, permits) for livestock grazing, crop production, or stable operations that allow horseback riding on unimproved lands, or intends to do so in the foreseeable future.

If ‘No,’ proceed to Decision 1.1.8.

Decision 1.1.8 – Is land management required to support military operations?

The NRM/IST in consultation with the USFW/NMFS and the state or local agencies determines if on-the-ground military missions on unimproved lands that require conservation measures to sustain the natural resources and cultural resources and minimize impacts (e.g., soil erosion control, prescribed burning).

If ‘No,’ proceed to Decision 1.1.9.

Decision 1.1.9 – Are unique biological resources present?

Unique biological resources are species listed for state protection, wetlands, or other unique habitats that provide essential loafing, nesting, or foraging areas for migratory birds, bats, or other wildlife protected by state or federal law.

The NRM/IST determines if biological resources are present through consultation with the USFWS/NMFS, and the state or local agencies. If the ecological issues related to the resource require any level of planning or management, the INRMP must address these issues.

If ‘No,’ proceed to Decision 1.1.10.

Decision 1.1.10 – Determine if significant BASH issues exist?

The NRM/IST in consultation with the USFWS/NMFS and the state or local agencies determines whether the installation has significant BASH issues that require habitat manipulation outside of the managed airfield, wildlife hazing, or depredation activities that are beyond the scope of standard bird/wildlife prevention, control, and dispersal operations conducted under the auspices of a Bird/Wildlife Reduction Plan administered by the Wing Safety office. In completion of this determination, the installation should consult with its Bird/Wildlife Hazard Working Group (BHWG) to determine if any BASH issues are significant enough to warrant developing an INRMP.

If ‘No, INRMP not required,’ proceed to Process 1.2 Determine Category II Validation.

Natural Resources Management – (Do, Check) – 1.1 Determine Need for INRMP N

R M

/IS

T

St at e/ Lo ca l

Ag en ci es

U

SF

W S/

N M

FS

Start Assess natural resources present

1.1.1

Are T&E species potentially present?

1.1.3 Identify

potential hunting and fishing programs?

1.1.5

Determine potential forestry operations?

1.1.6

Determine potential agricultural outgrants?

1.1.7 Is land

management required to support military operations?

1.1.8

No

Are unique biological resources present?

1.1.9

No

Determine if significant

BASH issues exist?

1.1.10

No No, INRMP not required

Conduct Annual

INRMP

Review and Update or

Revise

1.3

Determine if wetlands are present?

1.1.4

NoNo

Yes

Provide/receive data

1.1.2

= Predefined Process

= Decision Point

= Manual Activity

Shape Key

= On-Page Connector

= Out of Scope Process

= Off-Page Connector

= Start & End

= Automated Activity

= Document

Category II Validation

1.2

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes YesYes

No No

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Natural Resources Management – (Do) – 1.2 Determine Category II Validation

Not all Air Force installations have significant natural resources that need protection, maintenance, or preservation. When such instances exist, the installation can request permission from Air Staff and the Air Force Civil Engineer Center (AFCEC) to forego developing an Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan (INRMP). However, Executive Order (EO) 13148 Greening the Government Through Leadership in Environmental Management, requires all installations to develop and implement and Environmental Management System (EMS), including those that do not have INRMPs.

In accordance with Air Force Instruction (AFI) 32-7064, Integrated Natural Resources Management, an installation with a Category II Determination is not required to develop or implement an INRMP. Category II installations are exempt from an INRMP due to the absence of significant natural resources, as defined by in Process 1.1 Determine Need for INRMP.

Air Staff and AFCEC can validate a Category II status after considering justification and documentation provided to them by the installation. In addition, the Installation Commander can request AFCEC to change a previous category determination. A request for a status change must provide justification in accordance with Category I and II criteria, and include documentation showing any agreement to the proposed change in status by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), state or local agency. In addition, the installation must show documentation as to whether or not the area includes or borders marine environments to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)/National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS).

Air Staff • Reviews and gives final approval for a Category II Determination

• Notifies installation of Category II Determination AFCEC • Reviews and approves a Category II Determination Natural

Resources Manager (NRM)

• Prepares justification for Category II Determination

• Installation Commander forwards recommendations

• Determines to accepts AFEC’s non-concurrence or appeal

Entry from Process 1.1 Determine Need for INRMP.

Step 1.2.1 – Prepare justification for Category II Role: NRM

The Installation NRM prepares a justification (memo or letter) for a Category II Determination when it identifies the absence of significant natural resources on and in the vicinity of the base. The NRM should consult with the USFWS and NMFS and the state or local agency to confirm the lack of significant natural resources.

Proceed to Step 1.2.2.

Step 1.2.2 – Installation Commander forwards recommendations

The Installation or Wing Commander reviews the justification and signs a letter/memo addressed to AFCEC documenting the assessment that no significant natural resources exist and requesting approval of Category II status change for the installation.

Proceed to Decision 1.2.3.

10 FEB 2020

Decision 1.2.3 – Approve Category II Determination?

Role: AFCEC

AFCEC is responsible for reviewing the justifications and determines whether to approve the Category II Determination. If AFCEC approves the determination, the next step is for the Air Staff to review the justification for final approval. If AFCEC denies the justification for a Category II Determination, then the NRM has a chance to appeal and further justify the Category II Determination request.

If ‘Yes,’ proceed to Decision 1.2.5.

If ‘No,’ proceed to Decision 1.2.4.

Decision 1.2.4 – Appeal?

The NRM receives the notification that AFCEC does not approve with the Category II justification. The NRM determines whether to appeal AFCEC’s denial or to accept it. If the NRM wishes to appeal, then proceed to further justify a Category II Determination. If the NRM accepts the denial, he/she will develop and implement an INRMP.

If ‘Yes,’ proceed to Step 1.2.1.

If ‘No,’ proceed to Process 1.3 Conduct Annual INRMP Review and Update or Revise.

Decision 1.2.5 – Approve Category II Determination Role: Air Staff

The Air Staff receives AFCEC’s approval for the installation’s Category II Determination. The Air Staff reviews the justifications and determines whether to give final approval to the installation’s request for a Category II Determination or to deny it. If the Air Staff approves the Category II Determination then it notifies the installation. If the Air Staff denies the Category II Determination, it notifies the installation, which then must develop and implement an INRMP.

If ‘Yes,’ proceed to Step 1.2.6.

If ‘No,’ proceed to Process 1.3 Conduct Annual INRMP Review and Update or Revise.

Step 1.2.6 – Notify Installation of Category II Determination

The Air Staff notifies the installation in writing of the Category II Determination approval, thereby ensuring that the installation is exempt from developing an INRMP.

End.

Natural Resources Management – (Do) – 1.2 Determine Category II Validation

R M

AF

C

EC

Ai r S ta ff

Prepare justification for

Category II

1.2.1 Installation

Commander forwards recommendations

1.2.2

Approve Category II

Determination?

1.2.3

Conduct Annual

INRMP

Review and Update or

Revise

1.3

Appeal?

1.2.4Determine

Need for

INRMP

1.1

Approve Category II

Determination?

1.2.5 Notify Installation

of Category II Determination

1.2.6

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

End

= Predefined Process

= Decision Point

= Manual Activity

Shape Key

= On-Page Connector

= Out of Scope Process

= Off-Page Connector

= Start & End

= Automated Activity

= Document

No

FA300220R0007

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Natural Resources Management – (Plan, Do, Check) – 1.3 Conduct Annual INRMP Review and Update or Revise

Introduction

The Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan (INRMP) is an all-encompassing plan incorporating various Air Force natural resources programs and processes with installation personnel (Natural Resources Managers [NRM] and Air Force Civil Engineer Center [AFCEC] Subject Matter Specialists [SME]) in coordination with external agencies (United States Fish and Wildlife Service [USFWS], National Marine Fisheries Service [NMFS], State or Local Wildlife Agencies, and all Stakeholders).

The installation’s INRMP requires annual updates, in accordance with Department of Defense Instruction (DoDI) 4715.03, Natural Resources Conservation Program, the Sikes Act (16 United States Code [USC] 670 et seq.), and Air Force Instruction (AFI) 32-7064, Integrated Natural Resources Management, to ensure the achievement of mission goals, verify the implementation of improvements, and establish new projections. This process involves installation natural resources personnel and external agencies working in coordination to develop, update, and revise an INRMP. Interim updates are required in cases where changes in the military mission, new environmental compliance requirements, or other new information significantly affects installation natural resources and the ability of the installation to implement the INRMP. If the installation mission or any of its natural resources management issues change significantly after the creation of the original INRMP, a major revision to the INRMP is required. In order to make major revisions to the INRMP the installation must coordinate with the USFWS, NMFS, and the appropriate State or Local Agencies, as well as obtain signatures of approval. NRMs will document the findings of the annual review in an Annual INRMP Review Summary. By signing the Annual INRMP Review Summary, the collaborating agency representative asserts concurrence with the findings. If any agency declines to participate in an on-site annual review, the NRM shall submit an Annual INRMP Review Summary document to the agency via official correspondence and request return correspondence with concurrence

The Air Force Civil

Engineer Center

(AFCEC)

Receives notification of intent Determines if revisions are required

Installation/Wing Commander

Receives notification of intent Signs the final INRMP

USFWS/NMFS Receives notification of intent Participates in the annual INRMP review Reviews documents for the seven focus areas Drafts or revises preliminary INRMP Reviews and inputs comments on the INRMP for AFCEC to review Coordinates final draft Agrees or disagree with INRMP updates or revisions Signs the final INRMP

State/Local Agencies/Stakeholders

Receives notification of intent Participates in the annual INRMP review Reviews documents for the seven focus areas Drafts or revises preliminary INRMP Reviews and inputs comments on the INRMP for AFCEC to review Coordinates final draft Agrees or disagree with INRMP updates or revisions Signs the final INRMP

Natural Resources Manager (NRM)/

Installation Support

Creates end of the year execution report Compares previous-year work plan Creates and/or updates future work plans

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Team (IST) Notifies all external stakeholders of the annual review meeting Conducts and participates in the Annual INRMP Review Meeting Reviews documents for the seven focus areas Drafts or revises preliminary INRMP Sends to USFW/NMFS, State/Local Agencies and Stakeholders for review Sends INMRP for public review and receives comments Determines if revisions are necessary Coordinates final draft Sends Annual INRMP Memorandum and includes in E-Plan Determines if replies are received from all stakeholders Determines if mutual agreement has been reached Elevates issues to AFCEC or Headquarters of Air Force (HAF) Initiates any new programs or plans Identifies type of revisions from the INRMP review Obtains signatures Incorporates minor revisions and documents mutual agreement on E-Plan

Entry from Process 2.0 Manage Programs

Step 1.3.1 – Create end of year execution report

Estimated Completion Time: N/A

At the end of the fiscal year (September 30th), the NRM or the IST, if applicable, produces an execution report which identifies activities, projects funding statistics, and updated results in the INRMP Work Plan throughout the year and stored on E-Plan (refer to AFI 32-7064 for greater details concerning current year and out year information within the INRMP Work Plan).

Proceed to Step 1.3.2.

Step 1.3.2 – Compare previous-year work plan

Within a given year, the NRM/IST compares work accomplished, noted in the execution report, to projected work for the year. The NRM re-examines completed projects and, if applicable, adds theses to the future year work plans as appropriate.

Proceed to Step 1.3.3.

Step 1.3.3 – Create and/or update future work plans

Each year the NRM/IST is responsible for creating the next years’ work plan, integrated with associated funding requirements. The work plan contains information for uncompleted projects from the previous year which are still desired as well as new activities and projects to sustain or improve natural resources management at the installation.

Proceed to Step 1.3.4.

Step 1.3.4 – Notify all external stakeholders of Annual Review meeting

The NRM/IST notifies all external stakeholders of the annual INRMP review meeting. The meeting occurs before the end of the fiscal year, and relies on the availability of all parties and stakeholders. Stakeholders include local representatives of the USFWS, State or local fish and wildlife agency/ external agencies, and NMFS if the installation includes or borders marine environments. The NRM/IST notifies all parties and stakeholders by e-mail or telephone invitation.

Proceed to Decision 1.3.6.

Step 1.3.5 – Receive notification of intent Role: AFCEC, Installation/Wing Commander, USFWS/NMFS, State/Local Agencies/Stakeholders

AFCEC, Installation/Wing Commander, USFWS/NMFS, State/Local Agencies and Stakeholders receive the notification of intent and request to participate in an INRMP planning team supporting the development of a new INRMP or revision to the existing INRMP. The USFWS/NMFS, State/Local Agencies and Stakeholders begin preparations to join the INRMP Planning team and assist the NRM/IST.

Stakeholders may include but are not limited to:

Managers of military operations/ training activities Environmental managers Master planning staff Agricultural lessees Recreational groups Environmental and conservation groups Cultural resources managers Installation pest management professionals Neighboring land owners The Bureau of Land Management (BLM)

Proceed to Step 1.3.6.

Decision 1.3.6 – Accept participation for the meeting?

Role: USFWS/NMFS, State/Local Agencies/ Stakeholders

The USFWS/NFMS and State/Local Agencies/Stakeholders receive the invitation for the INRMP Annual review and determine if they accept the meeting. If all external stakeholders decline to attend or fail to reply the NRM/IST will update the INRMP independently.

If ‘Yes,’ proceed to Step 1.3.7.

If ‘No,’ or ‘No Reply,’ proceed to Step 1.3.15.

Step 1.3.7 – Conduct Annual INRMP Review Meeting Role: USFWS/NMFS, State/Local Agencies/ Stakeholders, NRM/IST

The USFWS/NMFS, the State or Local Agencies/Stakeholders, and NRM/IST conduct the Annual INRMP Review Meeting. This meeting takes place in person with respective representatives for each party and agency. Individuals may telephone or video call if they cannot attend in person. During this meeting the NRM/IST updates the external stakeholders/ parties with the end of the year execution report and coordinates future work plans. All parties review the INRMP and begin preliminary collaborative work on updating the INRMP (new policies, procedures, impacts, mitigations, etc.) where applicable.

Proceed to Step 1.3.8.

Step 1.3.8 – Review documents for seven focus areas

Estimated Completion Time: N/A

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As a component of the annual INRMP review, the NRM/IST prepares a summary of INRMP accomplishments that occurred since the last INRMP review by all stakeholders. The purpose of the summary is to document completed projects that implement INRMP goals and objectives. Once completed, the NRM/IST reviews the documents in accordance with the seven focus areas listed below.

INRMP project implementation Federally listed species and critical habitat Partnerships effectiveness Fish and wildlife management and public use Team adequacy Ecosystem integrity INRMP impact on the Air Force mission

Seven focus areas are used to assess requirements, goals, and objectives of the Sikes Act (United States Code [USC] 670 et seq.) annually for each installation with an INRMP. The reason for these focus areas or Natural Resources Conservation Metrics is to provide the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense (installations and Environment or designated representative) a list of all installations that have undertaken annual…