APPENDIX B - VISUAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT CLASSES
 

Visual resource classes are categories assigned to public 

lands. The classes serve two purposes: (1) an inventory 

tool that portrays the relative value of the visual 

resources, and (2) a management tool that portrays the 

visual management objectives. There are four classes, I, 

II, III, and IV, as described below. 

Visual resource management classes are assigned 

through RMP's. The assignment of visual management 

classes is ultimately based on the management decisions 

made in RMP's. However, visual values obtained 

through the visual resource inventory must be 

considered throughout the RMP process. All actions 

proposed during the RMP process that would result in 

surface disturbances must consider the importance of the 

visual values and the impacts the project may have on 

these values. 

Management decisions in the RMP must reflect the 

value of visual resources. In fact, the value of the visual 

resource may be the driving force for some management 

decisions. For example, highly scenic areas which need 

special management attention may be designated as 

scenic Areas of Critical Environmental Concern and 

classified as VRM Class I based on the importance of 

the visual values. 

Visual Resources will continue to be managed in 

accordance with the BLM 8400 Manual. All existing 

inventory data will be maintained and utilized when 

assessing visual impacts and needed contrast ratings for 

future management actions. 

VRM Class Objectives 

Class I 

The objective of this class is to preserve the existing character of the landscape. 

This class provides for natural ecological changes; however, it does not preclude 

very limited management activity. The level of change to the characteristic 

landscape should be very low and must not attract attention. 

Class II 

The objective of this class is to retain the existing character of the landscape. The 

level of change to the characteristic landscape should be low. Management 

activities may be seen, but should not attract the attention of the casual observer. 

Any changes must repeat the basic elements of form, line, color, and texture found 

in the predominant natural features of the characteristic landscape. 

Class III 

The objective of this class is to partially retain the existing character of the 

landscape. The level of change to the characteristic landscape should be moderate. 

Management activities may attract attention but should not dominate the view of 

the casual observer. Changes should repeat the basic elements found in the 

predominant natural features of the characteristic landscape. 

Class IV 

The objective of this class is to provide for management activities which require 

major modifications of the existing character of the landscape. The level of change 

to the characteristic landscape can be high. These management activities may 

dominate the view and be the major focus of viewer attention. However, every 

attempt should be made to minimize the impact of these activities through careful 

location, minimal disturbance, and repeating the basic elements. 

Butte Draft RMP/EIS 709