APPENDIX A

BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AND 

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
 
September 2012 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan A-i 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page 

A. Best Management Practices & Standard Operating Procedures......................................................A-1

A.1 Best Management Practices.......................................................................................................A-1

A.2 Standard Operating Procedures...............................................................................................A-1

A.3 Resources......................................................................................................................................A-1

A.3.1 Cave Resources.............................................................................................................A-1

A.3.2 Cultural Resources.......................................................................................................A-2

A.3.3 Paleontological Resources..........................................................................................A-3

A.3.4 Soil Resources...............................................................................................................A-4

A.3.5 Vegetation Resources..................................................................................................A-4

A.3.6 Visual Resource Management....................................................................................A-4

A.3.7 Wildlife Resources .......................................................................................................A-5

A.4 Resource Uses..............................................................................................................................A-6

A.4.1 Lands & Realty ...............................................................................................................A-6

A.4.2 Livestock Grazing..........................................................................................................A-8

A.4.3 Mineral Resources........................................................................................................A-9

A.4.4 Recreation ....................................................................................................................A-10

A.4.5 Travel Management....................................................................................................A-19

A.4.6 Wildland Fire & Fuels Management........................................................................A-23

A.5 Special Designations..................................................................................................................A-24

A.5.1 Back Country Byways................................................................................................A-24

A.5.2 Areas of Critical Environmental Concern ............................................................A-24

A.6 Social & Economic .....................................................................................................................A-25

A.6.1 Public Health & Safety................................................................................................A-25

September 2012 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan A-1

Appendix A

Best Management Practices & Standard 

Operating Procedures

A.1 BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES

Best Management Practices (BMPs) are land and resource management techniques determined to be the 

most effective and practical means of maximizing beneficial results and minimizing conflicts and negative 

environmental impacts from management actions. BMPs can include structural and nonstructural 

controls, specific operations, and maintenance procedures. BMPs can be applied before, during, and after 

activities to reduce or eliminate negative environmental impacts. BMPs are not one-size-fits-all solutions. 

BMPs should be selected and adapted through interdisciplinary analysis to determine which management 

practices are necessary to meet the goals and objective of the resource-management plan (RMP). The 

best practices and mitigation measures for a particular site are evaluated by considering site-specific 

conditions, local resource conditions, and a suite of techniques that guide or may be applied to 

management actions to aid in achieving desired outcomes. BMPs are often developed in conjunction with 

land-use plans, but they are not considered a land-use plan decision unless the land-use plan specifies 

that they are mandatory. They may be updated or modified without a plan amendment if they are not 

mandatory.

A.2 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are procedures carried out daily during proposal implementation 

which are based on laws, regulations, executive orders, BLM planning manuals, policies, instruction 

memoranda, and applicable planning documents. SOPs describe the flow of actions as well as identifying 

roles and responsibilities. Policy and planning procedures either already exist or have been identified 

through collaborative planning processes which are used as a guide during the implementation of 

management decisions. It is the goal of SOP to maintain operational efficiency and consistency during the 

planning and implementation processes.

A.3 RESOURCES

A.3.1 CAVE RESOURCES

A.3.1.1 Standard Operating Procedures

• Survey priorities will be assigned to those areas that are most likely to include significant

cave resources, are relatively accessible to the public, and/or vulnerable to damage or loss

from land use activities.
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A-2 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan September 2012

A.3.2 CULTURAL RESOURCES

A.3.2.1 Standard Operating Procedures

• Where impacts are occurring, implement protection measures to stop, limit, or repair 

damage to sites. A variety of protection measures, described in BLM Manual 8140, may be 

used to protect the integrity of sites at risk such as signing, fencing or barriers, trash 

removal, target shooting closures, erosion control, backfilling, repairing, shoring up, or 

stabilizing structures, restricting uses and access, and closures. Structural and material 

stabilization techniques may use chemical, mechanical, or structural elements to retard 

deterioration of cultural resources.

• Ensure that all proposed undertakings and authorizations are reviewed and conducted in

compliance with Section 106 of the NHPA, the Archaeological Resources Protection Act, 

the NAGPRA and other applicable laws.

• Compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act:

1. All undertakings will be subject to thorough cultural resource inventory in order to 

identify all cultural resources that lie within the Area of Potential Effect (APE).

2. All identified cultural resources within the APE will be evaluated for National Register

eligibility.

3. All undertakings shall be scrutinized for ways to design or re-design proposed projects

to avoid cultural resources. Every effort shall be made to minimize impacts on cultural

resources.

• Those cultural resources within the APE that have the characteristics that would make them

eligible for the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) would be mitigated using

appropriate treatment strategies, in order to reduce the intensity of the impact to the 

lowest level possible.

• Evaluate project designs and proposed activities and mitigate or adjust activities to avoid

disturbing or removing Native American human remains and associated items to the 

maximum extent possible and practicable. Where disturbance cannot be avoided, the BLM 

will consult with associated tribes under NAGPRA. Avoid directing site visitors toward 

areas where these items would be observed or disturbed.

• Complete Class II (sample) and Class III (intensive) field inventories to identify cultural

resources and evaluate the condition of sites, in accord with Section 110 of the NHPA. Use 

the information obtained through these surveys to allocate sites to proper use categories, 

develop protection measures, and integrate survey results into research designs and 

interpretation efforts. Priorities for inventory will be determined based on resource use and 

an area's or site's protection priority.
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September 2012 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan A-3

A.3.3 PALEONTOLOGICAL RESOURCES

A.3.3.1 Standard Operating Procedures

• The collection of “reasonable” amounts of common invertebrate and plant fossils would be

allowed without a permit when not aided by mechanical or motorized devices (43 CFR 

3620).

• Paleontological inventory of project areas would be done prior to authorizing surfacedisturbing activities to protect vertebrate or noteworthy occurrences of invertebrate or 

plant fossils.

• Survey priorities will be assigned to those areas that are most likely to include significant

paleontological resources, are relatively accessible to the public, and/or vulnerable to 

damage or loss from land use activities.

• For all authorized surface-disturbing activities, inventories will be conducted on a case-bycase basis, as deemed necessary by the authorized officer, for each proposed surfacedisturbing activity to ensure maintenance or integrity of paleontological values.

• The authorized officer may issue a permit for the collection of paleontological resources if it 

is determined that the applicant is qualified to carry out the research; the research is 

undertaken for the purpose of furthering paleontological knowledge or for public education; 

and the proposed methods of collection will not threaten significant natural or cultural 

resources.

• The following stipulations may be applied to surface-disturbing activities:

1. User/operators shall be responsible for informing all persons associated with a project 

that they shall be subject to prosecution for damaging, altering, excavating, or removing 

any vertebrate or noteworthy occurrences of invertebrate or plant fossils on site.

2. If vertebrate or noteworthy occurrences of invertebrate or plant fossils are discovered,

the user/operator shall suspend all operations that further disturb such materials and

immediately contact the authorized officer.

3. User/operators shall not resume until written authorization to proceed is issued by the

authorized officer.

4. Within five working days, the authorized officer will evaluate the discovery and inform 

the operator of actions that will be necessary to prevent loss of significant scientific 

values.

5. The user/operator shall be responsible for the cost of any mitigation required by the

authorized officer.

6. Upon verification from the authorized officer that the required mitigation has been

completed, the operator shall be allowed to resume operations.
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A-4 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan September 2012

A.3.4 SOIL RESOURCES

A.3.4.1 Best Management Practices

• Best management practices would be applied when authorizing vegetative or surface

disturbances to limit soil loss and erosion and protect water quality.

• Disturbance to surface resources would be minimized when constructing new developments

or reconstructing existing facilities. Mitigation plans would be developed, disturbed surfaces

would be restored, and soils would be stabilized in accordance with restoration objectives.

A.3.5 VEGETATION RESOURCES

A.3.5.1 Standard Operating Procedures

• Several treatment methods and standard operating procedures would be used in a 

vegetation treatment program. Bureau of Land Management's policies and guidance for 

public land treatments would be followed in implementing all treatment methods. SOPs and 

guidelines are provided in the following documents:

1. Manual Section 1740, BLM Arizona Standards for Rangeland Health (Land Health

Standards)

2. "Vegetation Treatments Using Herbicides on BLM Lands in 17 Western States 

Programmatic EIS" (BLM 2007) and "Vegetation Treatments on BLM Lands in 17 

Western States Programmatic Environmental Report (ER)" (BLM 2007)

3. Other general and specific program policy, procedures, and standards for implementing

renewable resource improvements

• The programmatic EIS and ER described above provide information regarding the application

of herbicides and pesticides and identify procedures and guidelines that would be followed 

by the BLM to ensure that risks to human health and the environment from treatment 

actions would be kept to a minimum. Included are SOPs those for the prevention of weeds 

and weed control, and a compilation of treatment-specific procedures and guidelines based

on various guidance in BLM manuals, handbooks, regulations, and standard agency and

industry practices. For resource specific SOPs and guidelines including those for fire use, and 

mechanical, manual, biological and chemical methods, see Table 2-5 in the ER. These

methods would be used under all alternatives.

A.3.6 VISUAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

A.3.6.1 Standard Operating Procedures

Facility Construction. Facility construction will achieve resource management and use benefits and 

focus on resource protection, resource management, and public safety. Facilities will be constructed to 

be visually unobtrusive while emphasizing protection of resources. Facilities will be located in areas 

where they are visually unobtrusive and will cause minimal damage to resources. Recreational facilities, 
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September 2012 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan A-5

including visitor centers, will be preferentially located off site in nearby communities and built through 

the use of partnerships.

Scenic quality. Measures to mitigate potential visual impacts include the use of natural materials,

screening, painting, project design, location sighting, or restoration.

A.3.7 WILDLIFE RESOURCES

A.3.7.1 Best Management Practices

• Reasonable administrative vehicular access to wildlife water facilities would be granted to 

AGFD, BLM and authorized permittee personnel for the purposes of constructing,

maintaining, and/or repairing facilities or conducting research or surveys.

• The use of new technologies, products, and construction designs that provide for the lowest

degree of maintenance and a visually obscure wildlife water development that is compatible

with the surrounding terrain would be emphasized.

• See manuals 6500 (Wildlife and Fisheries Management) and 6780 (Habitat Management

Plans)

• Fences constructed will comply with applicable wildlife fence standards (Fences – BLM

Manual Handbook H-1741-1). Existing fences that impede big game movement or that

otherwise conflict with wildlife may be modified to comply with applicable wildlife fence

standards on a case-by-case basis.

• The PDO will consult agency species management plans and other conservation plans as

appropriate to guide management and devise mitigation measures when needed. Examples of

these plans include but are not limited to the North American Landbird Conservation Plan,

National and Arizona Partners in flight Bird Conservation Plans, Arizona Bat Conservation

Plan, and the Arizona State Wildlife Action Plan (Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation

Strategy).

• The PDO would comply with the BLM Migratory Bird Treaty Act- Interim Management Guidance

(Instructional Memorandum 2008-050)

A.3.7.2 Standard Operating Procedures

• Coordinate with AGFD on migratory bird inventories when migratory bird inventories are

proposed by BLM or required of third parties.

• Coordinate with AGFD when Sonoran desert tortoise inventories are proposed by BLM or

required of third parties. The inventories should be completed using standardized protocols

such as those developed by AGFD.

• Wildlife water developments proposed in Wilderness Areas would have to meet the nonimpairment criteria.
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A-6 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan September 2012

A.4 RESOURCE USES

A.4.1 LANDS & REALTY

A.4.1.1 Standard Operating Procedures 

Access:

• Reasonable public and administrative access to BLM-administered land will be obtained in

the following ways:

1. Require reciprocal access easements to meet specific program needs;

2. Consider and manage the use of public land for right of way[s] (ROW)s, ROW 

reservations, easements, permits, leases, licenses, agreements, etc., except for those 

areas identified as exclusion areas;

3. Secure access easements as needed to prevent closing of access to public land.

Corridors & Communication Sites:

A corridor is used for one or more of the following major facilities:

1. Natural gas and other pipelines that are at least 10 inches in diameter;

2. Electric transmission facilities that have a capacity of 115 kilovolt lines or greater 

voltage;

3. Major telephone transmission, cable, or fiber optic lines;

4. Significant canals that provide delivery of water to urban areas;

5. Transportation facilities that are those formally defined as Current or Proposed Roads 

of Regional Significance or Current or Proposed Major Arterials (functional class) 

identified by a local government jurisdiction as regionally significant and projected to 

carry 20,000 or more vehicles per day by the year 2015;

6. Utilities, whether interstate, intrastate, or local, should be collocated in designated 

corridors to the maximum degree possible to minimize impacts to public lands;

7. Transportation routes, whether interstate, intrastate, or local, should be collocated with

utilities in designated corridors to the maximum degree possible to minimize impacts to

public lands.

• The BLM will strive to coordinate applicable transportation-related planning efforts for the

Lower Sonoran Planning Area with ADOT, Maricopa County Department of 

Transportation, Maricopa Association of Governments, and Pinal, Pima, Yuma, and Gila 

counties.

• Smaller utility lines needed for local service in the vicinity of the corridors should be colocated within a corridor unless doing so would limit the opportunity to collocate additional

major utility lines in the corridor.
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September 2012 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan A-7

• Avoidance of sensitive or special resources is a primary consideration in future planning and 

designation of utility corridors.

• BLM planning should promote, whenever possible, optimal energy transfer efficiency and

support alternative energy sources such as use of photovoltaic cells (solar energy) and wind

power.

• In February 2003, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued the National Strategy

for the Physical Protection of Critical Infrastructures and Key Assets (DHS 2003), which

summarized the initial assessment of and planning to protect against vulnerabilities to the

terrorist threat. As DHS continues to carry out its mandate, the designation of utility and

transportation corridor location and the planning and maintenance of utilities; railroads; and

Federal, State, and interstate highways that cross BLM-administered lands will be consistent

with all directives, policies, and procedures that DHS may institute to minimize 

vulnerabilities to the energy grid.

• Whenever possible, utility transmission lines will be designed and/or routed to minimize

adverse visual impacts to the surrounding land and vistas.

• The BLM’s utility corridor designations must be consistent with authority granted under

FLPMA Title V, Sections 501–511 (43 United States Code [USC] 1761–1771), the Mineral

Leasing Act of 1928 (CFR 2880) and the BLM ROW Manual, Sections 2801.11 and 2801.12.

• In accordance with Executive Order No. 13212, the Energy Project Streamlining process

(signed May 18, 2001), Federal energy-related planning must serve to expedite the 

production, transmission, or conservation of energy.

• The BLM will continue to cooperate as a full partner with the U.S. Forest Service, Arizona

Public Service Company, and Salt River Project in Arizona in the Western Utility Group,

whose mission is to facilitate an exchange of information and coordinate planning efforts

between Federal agencies and utility providers throughout the western United States.

• The BLM will, as appropriate, coordinate communication-related planning efforts with the

Federal Communications Commission.

• Bureau of Land Management planning related to telecommunication infrastructure must, in

accordance with the Telecommunications Act of 1996, help facilitate implementation of

wireless telephone systems, in compliance with existing law, by making Federal land and

facilities available for communication sites.

• New ROWs will make maximum use of existing routes and will share facilities whenever

possible, including joint use by different types of utilities, such as transmission line towers

and communication sites.

• Communications related planning efforts will be coordinated with the Federal

Communications Commission, as needed.

• If areas are discovered that require the protection of a withdrawal, the withdrawal will be

processed. If other Agency withdrawals are revoked - the BLM will manage the lands the

same as the adjacent lands.

• New utilities within the El Paso Natural Gas multiuse corridor must comply with the

adopted Individual Operating Plans for the administration of energy transport development. 
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A-8 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan September 2012

These Individual Operating Plans meet the requirements of Section 368 to expedite the 

permitting process (see Appendix B of the Approved RMP/ROD for Designation of Energy

Corridors on BLM Administered Lands in 11 Western States, 2009). The Individual 

Operating Plans provide coordinated, consistent interagency management procedures for 

permitting ROWs within the corridors. The Individual Operating Plans also identify 

mandatory requirements that will help ensure that future projects developed within Section 

368 corridors are planned, constructed, operated, and eventually decommissioned in a 

manner that protects and enhances environmental resources and long-term sustainability.

General Rights of Way:

• BLM may require that a licensed surveyor provide cadastral survey (to be reviewed by a 

BLM cadastral surveyor) of a right-of-way route prior to issuance of the authorization to an 

outside entity.

A.4.2 LIVESTOCK GRAZING

A.4.2.1 Standard Operating Procedures

• Rest rotation, deferred rotation, seasonal or short duration use, or other grazing 

management systems may be implemented where the need has been identified through 

monitoring. Monitoring will be used to assess the effectiveness of changes brought about by 

new management practices.

• Intensity, season and frequency, and distribution of grazing use should provide for growth 

and reproduction of the plant species needed to reach Desired Plant Community objectives.

• Deferment of livestock will be considered, where possible in cooperation with lease and

permit holders, to allow for the use of prescribed fire or other vegetative treatments, or the 

use of the area as a grass bank to allow for rest in other grazing allotments.

• Administrative vehicular access to repair range improvements by the grazing lessee is 

assured through issuance of the grazing permit.

• Any compensation for a loss of range improvements will be made in accordance with 43

CFR 4120.3-6.

• Livestock management changes may be made when sufficient assessment, inventory, or

monitoring data are available.

• Fence construction and maintenance will follow guidance provided in BLM handbook on

Fencing No. 1741-1.

• Grazing on designated ephemeral (annual and perennial) rangeland may be authorized if the 

following conditions are met:

o Ephemeral vegetation is present in draws, washes, and under shrubs and has grown to 

useable levels at the time grazing begins.

o Sufficient surface and subsurface soil moisture exists for continued plant growth.

o Serviceable waters are capable of providing for proper grazing distribution.
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September 2012 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan A-9

o Sufficient annual vegetation will remain on site to satisfy other resource concerns, (i.e., 

watershed, wildlife, wild horses and burros).

o Ephemeral use will be authorized up to March 31 when conditions warrant. After April 

1, authorizations will be limited to 30 days, subject to further evaluation. This will 

ensure maintenance for habitat for special status species (e.g. Sonoran desert tortoise). 

o Monitoring is conducted during grazing to determine if objectives are being met.

A.4.3 MINERAL RESOURCES

A.4.3.1 Standard Operating Procedures

• Unless otherwise restricted, all Federal mineral estates administered by the BLM within the 

Planning Area are available for orderly and efficient development of mineral resources.

Mineral exploration and development is generally encouraged on public lands in keeping 

with BLM’s multiple use concept. Overall guidance on the management of mineral resources

appears in the Mining and Minerals Policy Act of 1970, Sec. 102(a), 120 of FLPMA, National

Materials and Minerals Policy, Research and Development Act of 1980, and BLM’s Energy

and Minerals Policy of August 26, 2008.

• Exploration and development of all mineral resources will be conducted in accordance with

all applicable laws and regulations.

• Acquired land will be opened to mineral entry unless critical resource values (threatened 

and endangered species, riparian habitat, scenic values, etc.) or public health and safety 

require closure. Issuing ROWs where there are active mining claims is routine and covered 

by legislation and regulation. The ROW purchaser or permittee is informed of the rights of 

the mining claimant. Mining might intermittently or temporarily obstruct the ROW.

Locatable Minerals

• The 43 CFR 3715 and 43 CFR 3809 regulations provide for the management of surface 

disturbance associated with mineral exploration and development including mining claim use 

and occupancy. The BLM reviews mining notices and plans in the time allotted as identified 

in the regulations. For notice-level operations, if time permits, a site visit would be 

conducted for land identified in a mining notice by the geologist, as well as an archeologist 

and biologist if they are available. A site visit would generally be conducted by the BLM 

during the processing of a plan of operations.

• Mining plans and notice-level operations when mining claim occupancy is proposed are 

required to have the proper NEPA documentation prepared. The BLM will work with 

operators to ensure that notices and plans are processed efficiently and in a timely manner. 

Reclamation plans and bonds are required for each notice and plan per regulation. The 

amount of such bonds is for the full amount required to complete 100 percent of the 

required reclamation as if the BLM were required to hire independent contractors to do the 

work.

• In addition to the requirements of 43 CFR 3715 and 43 CFR 3809, State and Federal laws 

require numerous other permits including but not limited to an aquifer protection permit 
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A-10 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan September 2012

and a national pollutant discharge elimination system permit, both issued by the Arizona 

Department of Environmental Quality; a Section 404 permit issued by the U.S. Army Corps 

of Engineers; and a flood-control permit issued by the County. In addition, Arizona State law 

requires mining claimants to keep mining property in a safe condition. The State Mine 

Inspector’s Office is responsible for enforcing this law. The BLM will cooperate with all 

interested agencies to ensure that operations conducted on BLM-administered lands are in 

full compliance with all Federal, State and local health, safety, and environmental laws as 

required by 43 CFR 3715.5.

• All occupancy of mining claims must meet the requirements of 43 CFR 3715 and must meet 

the specific requirements of 43 CFR 3715.2. At a minimum, all occupancies will meet the 

requirements and standard stipulations for occupancy contained in the BLM Arizona 

Programmatic Environmental Assessment for Mining Claim Use and Occupancy.

• Surface-disturbing activities at a level greater than casual use in wilderness areas, national 

Monuments, ACECs, and other areas identified in 43 CFR 3809.11 will require a plan of 

operations before mining can begin. Operations proposed for land that is withdrawn from 

mineral entry will cause the BLM to initiate a validity examination and will be allowed only 

on claims with a valid discovery and location existing before designation. Before the BLM can 

approve mining plans of operation submitted for work in areas withdrawn from mineral 

entry, a BLM mineral examiner must verify that a valid claim exists. The mineral examination 

and mineral report must confirm that minerals have been found and that the evidence is of 

such character that a person of ordinary prudence would be justified in the further 

expenditure of his labor and means with a reasonable prospect of success in developing a 

viable mine.

Leasable Minerals

• Lease applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Leases will be issued with 

needed restrictions to protect resources. Stipulations to protect important surface values 

will be based on interdisciplinary review of individual proposals and environmental analysis.

Saleable Minerals (Mineral Materials Disposals)

• The sale of minerals is discretionary on the part of the BLM under 43 CFR 3600 regulations 

and will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

A.4.4 RECREATION

A.4.4.1 Standard Operating Procedures

• The following provisions are set forth by regulation or bureau policy and thus do not 

require planning decisions to be implemented as part of management actions.

• General standard operating procedures:

• Encourage “Tread Lightly” and “Leave No Trace” travel and camping techniques.

• Adopt measures to increase visitor responsibility for campfire etiquette and to reduce

proliferation of campfire rings.
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September 2012 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan A-11

• Implement procedures for systematic monitoring of sites developed or authorized for public

visitation. Restrict visitor access or group tours if necessary to prevent damage from visitor

use.

• Determine areas where comprehensive site assessments are needed to determine existing

physical and social impacts of recreation activities, to define desired conditions and 

standards, or to establish monitoring plans to manage camping and other uses.

• Develop and maintain partnerships and identify cooperative, sustainable recreation and

tourism-based economic opportunities with nearby communities.

• Develop and maintain partnerships with local clubs and organizations to help maintain and

monitor motorized and non-motorized trails.

• Post applicable toll-free phone numbers on kiosks, maps, brochures, permits, and other 

public outreach conveyances to keep the public involved in reporting emergencies and

criminal activities, including damage to resources.

• Allow cultural and natural resource interpretation signs and facilities where needed for

visitor enjoyment or resource protection. Interpretive developments must be compatible 

with recreation management objectives, desired recreation settings, and VRM standards.

• Pursue interpretation and environmental educational opportunities, outreach development,

and implementation of on-site and off-site programs for adults and children.

• Develop school curricula focusing on the BLM's mission with staffs from schools, school

districts, and other learning institutions.

• Pursue multicultural interpretation and environmental education opportunities, outreach,

development, and implementation of programs for adults and children. Apply learning

modalities and incorporate various learning styles in program design and delivery. Encourage

the use of multiple intelligence or other theories for program presentations.

• Support existing educational and interpretive programs and initiatives such as Project

Archaeology; Leave No Trace; Tread Lightly; Project Learning Tree; and other proven

national, State, regional, and local programs.

• Develop websites and distribute brochures, maps, access guides, and information sheets to

provide information on recreational opportunities, interpreted sites, resource protection,

designated trails and travel routes, safe travel, and safe shooting practices.

Special recreation permits

The BLM issues special recreation permits (SRPs) to manage visitor use; to protect natural and cultural 

resources; to meet the goals and objectives of the field office recreation program as outlined in a landuse plan; and to authorize specific types of recreational activities. Special recreation permits (including 

academic, educational, scientific, or research use) are issued to qualified applicants on a first-come, firstserved and a case-by-case basis based on resource values and how the SRPs meet resource and public 

health and safety concerns. Permit authorization numbers will be set and could be adjusted based on 

monitoring of areas to be used to accurately accommodate level of use, and to sustain resources while 

maintaining desired social and managerial settings.
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A-12 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan September 2012

Special recreation permit stipulations

In addition to the conditions and stipulations listed on the Special Recreation Application and Permit 

form, supplemental office and resource-specific stipulations are included with approved permits that are 

designed to protect the land and resources involved, reduce user conflicts, and/or minimize health and 

safety hazards. These stipulations must be followed to keep the permit in good standing. Failure to 

comply with the stipulations may result in the loss of permit privileges.

Standard SRP stipulations are listed below. Not all stipulations may apply in every SRP, and stipulations 

may be added, modified, or deleted on a case-by-case basis based on the specific event being permitted.

General SRP stipulations

• Estimated fee payments or the minimum non-refundable annual fee, whichever is applicable,

will be submitted in advance to the BLM authorized officer prior to issuance or validation of

the SRP. Any additional use fees will be due at the end of the 6-month reporting period in

which the fees were accrued, or the end of the event, whichever is applicable. Overpayment 

of fees will be applied to the following year’s estimated use fees.

• Post-use reports and estimated fee payments for annual and multi-year permits will be

submitted to the BLM on a fiscal year semi-annual basis. They are due within 15 days after

the 6 month use period (April 15 and October 15).

• The permittee is required to contact private landowners and other governmental agencies

whose property is affected by the use associated with the permit (this includes the Arizona

State Land Department for State Trust land). Evidence that authorization has been obtained

must be available to the BLM authorized officer upon request.

• Any changes to the approved Plan of Operations must first be approved by the BLM

authorized officer. This includes the use of subcontractors.

• The permit does not authorize exclusive use and shall not be construed in any way so as to

prevent public use or access on any public land except as expressly allowed under the 

permit.

• The permittee is required to provide the BLM authorized officer with a copy of a valid

Certificate of Insurance covering the periods of use. The U.S. Government must be named 

as a co-insured party on the policy. 

• It is the responsibility of the permittee to ensure valid insurance coverage including general

public liability, with the limits listed above, is provided for all equipment and services

supplied by subcontractors. A copy of the valid insurance coverage must be made available 

to the BLM authorized officer upon request.

• A copy of this permit and the stipulations must be carried by guides during all tours 

conducted on BLM-administered land, and must be made available to any BLM employee or 

client upon request.

• Any violation of the permit terms, conditions, and stipulations may be subject to penalties

prescribed in 43 CFR 8372.0-7, which may include fines as set (currently up to $1,000

and/or imprisonment up to 12 months). Additionally, any such violation may result in permit
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September 2012 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan A-13

probation, suspension, or revocation. Examples that can lead to permit violations include, 

but are not limited to delinquent post use reports and/or payments, deviations to operating 

plan not approved by authorized official, violation of laws and regulations, significant 

resource damage, and public endangerment.

• All signs on public land must be authorized by the BLM in writing.

• The permittee is responsible for ensuring the safety of all clients and support personnel,

assuring that all permit actions are in conformance with local, State, and Federal health and

safety standards and providing for appropriate emergency attention.

• All injuries requiring emergency hospital care will be reported to the BLM authorized officer

within 2 days of the occurrence and a Death and Injury Report submitted to the BLM

authorized officer within 10 days of the occurrence.

• The BLM reserves the right to alter the terms, condition, or stipulations of a permit at any

time for reasons such as significant policy, administrative procedure, or stipulation change.

• Annual permits remain valid if the permittee is in good standing by complying with all terms,

conditions, and stipulations including timely submission of post use reports, and applicable 

use fee payments. For multi-year permits, an annual review is done at the beginning of each 

fiscal year (October 1) and permits are validated for the upcoming fiscal year. For a permit 

to be validated, the permittee must be in good standing by complying with all terms, 

conditions, and stipulations including timely submission of post use reports and applicable 

use fee payments. In addition, certificates of insurance shall be current and operating plans 

must be reviewed and updated with any changes before a permit will be validated for the 

upcoming fiscal year.

1. Require holders of special recreation permits (SRPs) to give site visitors suitable 

educational information on archaeological site etiquette and resource conservation.

2. SRP applicants will be strongly encouraged to have a working knowledge of Leave No

Trace and Tread Lightly principles. Additionally, applicants will be asked to incorporate

Leave No Trace and Tread Lightly principles into their tour, program, or event activities.

Resource protection stipulations

• All activities are to remain on the approved roads, trails, washes, and/or staging areas. No

deviation to these routes is permitted without prior approval from the BLM authorized 

officer. Motorized vehicles are not permitted in riparian areas or in running washes except 

at road crossings.

• Employees and clients will be instructed that it is unlawful to disturb, deface, excavate, or 

remove any archaeological or paleontological objects or structures (i.e., "look but do not 

touch!"). Rock art may be photographed but not touched. Collection of prehistoric or

historic artifacts is not allowed. Any prehistoric or historic cultural site or human remains

discovered by the permittee, employees, or clients will be left undisturbed and reported as

soon as possible to the BLM authorized officer.
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A-14 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan September 2012

• Permittee must notify the BLM authorized officer of any specific archaeological sites 

proposed for inclusion on tours. Tours to sites are subject to BLM approval and protective 

stipulations.

• Historical mine sites should not be disturbed. Collecting artifacts from these sites is strictly

prohibited.

• All persons operating under the SRP, including subcontractors, are prohibited from entering 

abandoned mines.

• Proposed activities will be conducted in a manner that will not interfere with mining or

exploration operations. No minerals are to be collected from areas encumbered by active

mining claims unless authorized by the claimant(s).

• Harassment of livestock, wildlife, and wild horses or burros or destruction of private and

public improvements such as fences and gates is prohibited. All gates and fences shall be left

as found. The taking of any threatened and endangered plant or animal is prohibited.

• Collection, harassment, and disturbance of desert tortoises and Gila monsters are 

prohibited by Arizona State Law. If encountered on roads or trails, the animals should be 

avoided. If a desert tortoise is encountered and cannot be avoided, it should be carefully 

moved to safety by carrying it horizontal to the ground, not tilted, and placed in the shade 

the minimum distance needed to remove it from harm’s way. Gila monsters should be 

avoided and not handled. They are venomous and can inflict a serious and painful bite.

• Vegetation clearing, trimming, or removal is not permitted without prior approval from the

BLM authorized official.

• If the volume of use is determined to be adversely impacting soils or riparian condition

through erosion, bank alteration, or other means, the BLM may restrict use of affected areas

or routes to allow restoration and recovery of degraded areas. During wet periods, certain

road and trail segments may be closed to all traffic. The BLM will consider the applicant’s

needs when designing and implementing restrictions or watershed restoration efforts that

could influence the operation.

• In order to minimize the importation or spread of noxious weeds, all vehicles are to be 

washed thoroughly (including the undercarriage and engine compartment) before entering 

public land to remove all soil and vegetation debris (including seeds and seed heads) 

acquired from previous use. This washing should occur at the home base of operations of 

the permittee before traveling to public land. All vehicles used for activities approved by this 

permit are subject to inspection by the BLM.

• The permittee will be committed to preserving and protecting public lands by learning,

practicing, and promoting the “Leave No Trace” principles as presented by the Leave No

Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics (see www.lnt.org).

Motorized vehicle-use stipulations:

• Motorized routes and non-motorized trails will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis for use 

in permitted events and suitability for future use, closure, re-routing, rehabilitation, 

upgrading or authorization as an approved and permitted course will be determined.
Appendix A. Best Management Practices and Standard Operating Procedures

September 2012 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan A-15

• No motorized vehicles are permitted in riparian areas or in running washes except at road

crossings. Substantiated reports of unauthorized use in these areas will result in immediate

probation and possible suspension or revocation of permit privileges.

• Per 43 CFR 9268, all motor vehicle use will comply with existing BLM and State motorized

vehicle laws and regulations on public lands relating to use, standards, registration, operation

and inspection. These regulations include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. No person shall operate an OHV on public land in a reckless, careless or negligent 

manner; in excess of established speed limits; while under the influence of alcohol, 

narcotics or drugs; or in a manner causing, or likely to cause, significant undue damage 

to or disturbance of the soil, wildlife, wildlife habitat, improvements, cultural resources 

or vegetation.

2. Drivers shall yield the ROW to pedestrians, saddle horses, pack trains, and animal 

drawn vehicles.

3. Drivers are prohibited from operating a motor vehicle unless the driver and each front 

seat passenger are restrained by a properly fastened safety belt.

• The permittee will be committed to preserving and protecting the public land by learning,

practicing, and promoting the “Tread Lightly!” principles as presented by the Tread Lightly

non-profit organization (see www.treadlightly.org).

Hunting outfitter/guide supplemental stipulations

The following stipulations for hunting outfitters and guides are in addition to the terms and conditions 

listed on the back of the special recreation application and permit form and the standard stipulations for 

BLM's Phoenix District and LSFO. The stipulations listed below are part of the permit: Failure to comply 

with them may result in the loss of permit privileges.

• Hunters shall not hunt within 1⁄4 of a mile of any developed recreation or archaeological site.

• Hunters may not use motorized vehicles of any type to retrieve injured or killed animals,

including hunters with Challenged Hunter Access/Mobility Permits. Outside of wilderness

areas, the use of wheeled game carts is allowed and recommended.

• No base camps may be established in undisturbed areas without the prior approval of the 

BLM.

• The BLM shall be notified of any base camp stays anticipated to occur over the standard 14-

day camping limit. This notification shall be received at least three business days prior to the 

fourteenth day of occupancy. Under no circumstances is the base camp occupancy to

exceed the length of the hunting season for which the hunt permit/tag is drawn.

• Portable self-contained chemical toilets are the preferred method for human waste disposal

and are required for groups larger than eight people. "Catholes" may be used for groups less

than eight people and must be located at least 200 feet from water sources or dry wash 

beds. Toilet paper and feminine hygiene products are to be packed out and properly 

disposed. Waste from self-contained toilets shall be disposed of at State approved sewage 

disposal facilities.
Appendix A. Best Management Practices and Standard Operating Procedures

A-16 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan September 2012

• The permittee must notify the BLM three business days in advance if horses or pack stock

animals are to be used for hunting activities.

• The permittee shall provide the BLM contact with the following information at least three

business days prior to the start of the hunt:

1. Hunt number and Game Management Units for which the permit-tag was drawn

2. Anticipated area of concentration for hunt and location of overnight base camps

3. If applicable, the following additional information needs to be provided: 1) Name of the

lead guide, 2) Vehicle information including make, model, color and license number

Parking, Staging Areas, Roads, and other Facilities and Sites 

Facilities to manage concentrated recreation use typically are planned and authorized by site-specific 

planning that is conducted at the project level on a case-by-case basis:

• Facilities (such as camping locations, motorized and non-motorized activity staging areas, 

toilets, scenic turnouts, cultural interpretive sites, directional and interpretive signs, nonmotorized trails, and roads) will be authorized where needed for resource protection, 

visitor safety, resolution of visitor use conflicts, or to implement an RMP or implementationplan decision.

• To the greatest extent possible, all new construction and modifications for recreational

facilities, outdoor developed areas, and any related programs and activities will be accessible

to people with disabilities in accord with the Architectural Barriers Act of 1968 and Section

504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, with later amendments. Guidance, requirements, and

standards applicable to conform with the above legislation may be found in the following:

1. Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards,

2. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Accessibility Guidelines,

3. ADA-ABA Accessibility Guidelines (use whichever guidance is most stringent), and

4. Proposed Outdoor Developed Areas Guidelines (U.S. Access Board found at 

http://www.access-board.gov and 43 CFR Part 17, Subpart E found at

http://www.gpoaccess.gov/cfr/index.html.)

• Roads and trails will be maintained as needed.

• Per 43 CFR 9268, all motor vehicle use will comply with existing BLM and State motorizedvehicle laws and regulations on public lands relating to use, standards, registration, operation 

and inspection.

• Vehicle and recreational uses and access to areas with known listed, sensitive, threatened,

or endangered species (plant and wildlife) will be avoided.

• Recreational use and vehicular traffic will be minimized when the soils are so wet or

abnormally dry that the route or surrounding resources may be damaged by use and during

high fire-threat conditions.
Appendix A. Best Management Practices and Standard Operating Procedures

September 2012 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan A-17

• The BLM will work with private property owners to reduce conflicts between private 

owners and recreational activities.

• Coordinate with partners and nearby land owners and managers to develop joint 

campgrounds on and off public lands.

• Develop partnerships and volunteer opportunities with local clubs, organizations, and

communities to maintain and monitor routes, recreation sites, and other areas.

• Develop brochures, maps, and information sheets to disseminate recreation use information 

to the public.

Recreational target shooting

Public lands administered by the BLM are generally available for recreational target shooting unless 

otherwise specifically closed to that use. BLM will work with the public, organizations, and law 

enforcement to promote safe shooting practices that limit user conflicts and damage to natural and 

cultural resources. The following discussion describes criteria for the selection of safe and considerate 

shooting sites.

It is the ultimate responsibility of the recreational target shooter to ensure the projectiles they fire are 

contained within the shooting site they select. While shooting is allowed in most public land areas, the 

shooter should make no concession concerning safety. Consideration of other people using public lands 

is not only considerate, Arizona Revised Statutes Title 13-1201 says: 

A. A person commits endangerment by recklessly endangering another person with a 

substantial risk of imminent death or physical injury.

B. Endangerment involving a substantial risk of imminent death is a class six felony. In all other 

cases, it is a class one misdemeanor. 

General considerations for selecting a suitable shooting site include the following:

• Select a site with a safe backstop. That means that it is visibly apparent where the bullets are 

hitting behind the target. A hill or pushed-up berm of dirt is perfect. Remember that bullets 

can ricochet off flat surfaces—that includes rocks, dirt and water. Place targets right in front 

of the backstop to ensure that bullets stop in the dirt. 

• Select a site that doesn’t put others at risk. Do not shoot towards or across areas where 

other people congregate such as hiking trails, vehicle parking and staging areas, and trail 

heads. It is a violation of Arizona State law (A.R.S. 17-301B) to shoot across a maintained 

road. Though this law only pertains to maintained roads, there are many routes in the 

desert that are used by motorcycles, quads, and four-wheel drive vehicles that are not as 

apparent as a maintained road. Shooting in the direction, or across them, though not a 

violation of the referenced law, could be just as dangerous to people using them. Choose a 

site that avoids shooting across or towards motorcycle, quad, or four-wheel-drive routes as 

well.
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A-18 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan September 2012

• In addition to motorized routes, there are many popular hiking, bicycling, and equestrian 

trails. Select a site that doesn’t cross or shoot in the direction of a trail that could put 

people at risk.

• Selection of a safe shooting site would include staying more than 1⁄4 mile from any residence 

or occupied structure. When selecting a site, assume any structure is occupied. It is a 

violation of Arizona State Law to knowingly discharge a firearm at a structure. The statue 

(A.R.S 13-1211A and B) says: 

A. A person who knowingly discharges a firearm at a residential structure is guilty of a class 

two felony. 

B. A person who knowingly discharges a firearm at a nonresidential structure is guilty of a 

class three felony.

• Selection of a site should include avoiding such improvements as wildlife or livestock water 

facilities, livestock control facilities such as corrals and fences, signs or kiosks installed to 

provide information, barns or other rural developments, or any other improvement that 

was not specifically designed to be shot at.

• It is a violation of Arizona State law (A.R.S. 13-1603A 1) if a person "Throws, places, drops 

or permits to be dropped on public property or property of another which is not a lawful 

dump any litter, destructive or injurious material which he does not immediately remove." 

This includes not only trash, but also brass or shells (including shotgun shells) from spent 

ammunition, and items used as targets. Shooters are required to remove any targets, items 

on which targets are mounted, and brass from spent ammunition. BLM Phoenix District 

policy is to only use targets that do not produce litter, and to remove them when shooting

is finished.

• Under the Code of Federal Regulations (43 CFR 8365.2-5(a)) no person shall "Discharge or 

use firearms..." on a developed recreation site. (43 CFR 8360.0-5(c) defines "Developed 

Recreation Sites and Areas" as "...sites and areas that contain structures or capital 

improvements primarily used by the public for recreation purposes. Such sites or areas may 

include such features as: delineated spaces for parking, camping or boat launching; sanitary 

facilities; potable water; grills or fire rings; or controlled access." 

Selecting sites with side berms and backstops is optional where the shooter can be assured 

of safe shooting 1.5 miles downrange for pistol or 3.5 miles downrange for high powered 

rifles, with appropriate left and right ricochet safety zones. With the popularity of public 

lands for recreation and other uses, this scenario is the exception rather than the rule. 

Therefore, the primary purpose for selection of backstops and side berms is to protect 

against the injury of people, the damage of property or both.

The type of firearms being fired and the shooting activity being conducted will dictate the 

extent of the backstops, side berms and safety fans required to achieve that goal.

A downrange safety fan is an area beyond the backstop and side berms that is free of people 

or property that can be injured or damaged by errant bullets. It is important to remember 

that, depending on the suitability of the backstop and side berms, a safety fan downrange will 

be required to assure a safe shooting area. Below are ideal specifications for both backstops 

and side berms. Sites with less than ideal backstops and side berms must have increasingly 
Appendix A. Best Management Practices and Standard Operating Procedures

September 2012 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan A-19

longer downrange safety fans, approaching the distances described above of 1.5 miles for 

pistols and 3.5 miles for high power rifles. Even with an ideal backstop and side berms, site 

selection should still consider downrange safety and a downrange safety fan.

• The characteristics of safe backstops and berms recognized as needed for safe shooting 

practices are as follows:

o Height. Preferred backstops include naturally occurring hills or mountainsides, or steepsided wash banks. Backstops of soft dirt are preferred over hard surfaces, and rocky 

slopes should be avoided as they create a high ricochet hazard. A minimum height of 15 

feet is acceptable but 20 to 25 feet is recommended. Remember that bullet ricochet can 

happen even on the best backstop. Site selection should consider ricochet possibilities 

and backstops that exceed 20 to 25 feet should be chosen where possible to reduce 

ricochet away from the shooting area.

o Width/Length. The width of the backstop should be at least as wide as it is high. Targets 

should be placed directly in front of or on the backstop with sufficient backstop on 

either side to catch bullets. Ideally, side berms should be the same height and the full 

length of the shooting area from the backstop to even with the firing line.

o Slope. The range side slope (side facing the shooter) must be as steep as possible, but 

not less than a 45-degree slope (a ratio of one-to-one). Side berm slopes should have 

the same dimensions.

• The bottom line is to select a shooting site in harmony with adjacent properties and other 

public land users. The site should prevent adjacent properties and other public land users 

from experiencing any risk from the shooting activities. The overall responsibility of the 

shooter is to stop fired bullets before they exit the selected shooting area. It is the intention 

of the BLM to provide a safe and pleasant experience for any public land user. If shooting 

areas emerge that are contrary to the above criteria they will be clearly construed as putting 

other public land users at risk and they may be closed to shooting by the authorized officer, 

either temporarily or permanently.

A.4.5 TRAVEL MANAGEMENT

A.4.5.1 Best Management Practices

Travel System Planning

• Ensure that road specifications and plans are consistent with good safety practices. 

• Design, construction and maintenance of roads, primitive roads and trails will comply with 

guidelines identified in the BLM 9113 Roads Manual, the BLM 9115 Primitive Roads Manual 

or the BLM 9114 Trails Manual (2012). 

• Plan each road to the minimum standards for the intended use. Adapt plans to the soils and 

terrain to minimize disturbance and damage to soil productivity, vegetation, water quality, 

and wildlife habitat.

• Plan natural road cross-drainage by insloping and using relief culverts or outsloping and by 

grade changes. Plan for effective well-placed dips or water bars. 
Appendix A. Best Management Practices and Standard Operating Procedures

A-20 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan September 2012

• Design relief culverts or roadside ditches to prevent fill erosion. 

• Emphasize the use of existing roads (through continued use or reconstruction) to minimize 

new road construction. 

• Implement mitigation techniques when designing and implementing the route system.

Road/Primitive Road Construction

• Construct culverts, cross drains, or other water control devices to prevent erosion. 

• Design roads to balance cuts and fills or use full bench construction where stable fill 

construction is not possible. 

Road/Primitive Road Drainage

• Provide adequate drainage from the surface of all roads by using outsloped or crowned 

roads, drain dips, or insloped roads with ditches and cross-drains or relief culverts. 

• Vary road grades to reduce concentrated flow in road surface, ditches, and culverts and on 

fill slopes and road surfaces. 

• Size drainage structures appropriately to handle anticipated flow during normal runoff or 

storms. 

• Outsloped Roads: Outsloped roads provide means of dispersing water in a low-energy flow 

from the road surface. Outsloped roads are appropriate when fill slopes are stable, drainage 

will not flow directly into stream channels, and transportation safety considerations can be 

met. Outsloping is the preferred method of drainage for primitive roads.

• Insloped Roads: For insloped roads, generally design ditch gradients to be between two and 

eight percent to prevent sediment deposition and ditch erosion. The higher gradients may 

be suitable for more stable soils; use the lower gradients for less stable soils. 

• Drain Dips: Construct drain dips deep enough into the subgrade so that traffic will not 

obliterate them. Dips should be angled 20 to 45 degrees perpendicular to the road and have 

a drainage grade of two to eight percent. Alternative drain dip designs are acceptable when 

properly constructed to ensure performance and longevity.

• Prevent downslope movement of sediment by using sediment catch basins, drop inlets, 

changes in road grade, headwalls, recessed cut slopes, slash filter windrows, or other design 

features. 

• Prevent cross drains, culverts, water bars, dips, and other drainage structures from 

discharging onto erodible soils or fill slopes without outfall protection. 

• Design roads for minimal disruption of drainage patterns. 

Road/Primitive Road Maintenance

• Maintain erosion control features through periodic inspection and maintenance, including 

cleaning dips and cross-drains, repairing ditches, marking culvert inlets to aid in location, and 

clearing debris from catch basins and culverts. 

• Avoid using roads during wet periods if such use would damage the road drainage features. 
Appendix A. Best Management Practices and Standard Operating Procedures

September 2012 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan A-21

• Grade road surfaces only as often as necessary to maintain a stable running surface and to 

retain the original surface drainage.

• Conduct spot maintenance on primitive roads to correct safety, conserve resources or to 

maintain the desired recreation experience. Grading the full length of primitive roads is not 

required, nor desired, in most cases.

Non-motorized and Motorized Trail Construction

• Construction will follow BLM 9114 Trails Manual (2012) or other applicable standard.

• All trails are designed to minimize surface disturbance.

• For non-motorized trails, linear areas of interest would be marked with fiberglass posts or 

rock cairns to establish the footpath.

• Alternative types of transportation to link areas of interest should be considered.

A.4.5.2 Standard Operating Procedures

Route Designations

• Provide interested stakeholders with opportunities to provide input and written comments 

throughout the designation process. 

• During future comprehensive travel management plans for limited to designated route areas, 

apply the following route-selection criteria, as defined in 43 CFR 8342.1:

1. [Designated] trails shall be located to minimize damage to soil, watershed, vegetation, 

air, or other resources of the public lands, and to prevent impairment of wilderness 

suitability; 

2. [Designated] trails shall be located to minimize harassment of wildlife or significant 

disruption of wildlife habitats. Special attention will be given to protect endangered or 

threatened species and their habitats;

3. [Designated] trails shall be located to minimize conflicts between off-road vehicle use 

and other existing or proposed recreation uses; and

4. [Designated] trails shall not be located in officially designated wilderness areas or 

primitive areas. Areas and trails shall be located in natural areas only if the BLM 

Authorized Officer determines that off-road vehicle use in such locations will not 

adversely affect their natural, esthetic, scenic, or other values for which such areas are

established.

• The BLM will also consider the following additional route-selection criteria:

o Route density and duplicative routes;

o Continuity and loop trail opportunities;

o Access to non-BLM-administered land;

o Route characteristics (e.g., width, condition, safety);

o Administrative and permitted access;
Appendix A. Best Management Practices and Standard Operating Procedures

A-22 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan September 2012

o RMP goals, objectives and specific management actions

o User conflict; and

o Value to and impact on other resources and resource uses.

New Routes

• Communities, user groups, and agencies can bring non-motorized trail or motorized route

proposals forward for management attention.

• New routes may be added to the designated route network to address changed conditions 

or demands. The process of adding new routes to the designated route network, motorized 

or non-motorized, will include a structured analysis approach. All proposed additions will be 

processed as follows:

1. Route locations will, as a minimum, be mapped or located under instructions from the 

BLM using accepted Global Positioning System devices and presented to BLM for 

consideration. Locations of route proposals off of designated motorized routes must be 

located and mapped using non-motorized methods.

2. Route proposals submitted to BLM will include a description of the route (including its 

proposed width), its proposed use(s) (including expected traffic and design vehicle) and 

rationale for its need.

3. The proposed location will be staked and flagged for on-the-ground review by resource 

specialists.

4. The route location will be analyzed for potential conflicts such as (but not limited to): 

wildlife habitat and movement, cultural resources, visual resources, other recreation 

uses, mining claims or leases, grazing facilities, ROWs, and proximity to other 

jurisdictions (such as private land). A structured process will be used to evaluate and 

document the potential route conditions.

5. The conflict assessment may lead to development of mitigation actions or alternative 

locations or design.

6. An environmental analysis would be conducted to determine the environmental effects 

of the proposed route and any alternatives and recommended mitigation.

7. A decision will be issued by the authorized officer based on LUP conformance, resource 

objectives, and environmental impacts.

8. If the decision is to approve the addition of the route, the Travel Management Plan will 

be updated, accordingly.

General Management

• The development of standards for monitoring the route system will be directed by 

compliance with laws, regulations, and travel management plan goals and objectives.

• Route or area closures or mitigation will be enacted where OHV or special vehicle use is

determined to be inconsistent with established recreational management objectives, and/or

such use is causing harm to natural or cultural resources.
Appendix A. Best Management Practices and Standard Operating Procedures

September 2012 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan A-23

• Partnerships will be developed with local clubs and organizations to help maintain and

monitor motorized routes and non-motorized trails.

• Manage OHV use and travel activities, and implement best management practices according 

to the Arizona BLM Guidelines for OHV Recreation Management.

• A route inventory database will be maintained using standard collection and information

storage methods.

• The field office area will be monitored to detect unauthorized route creation.

• Create design and maintenance guidelines and procedures for managing access points, roads 

and trails, consistent with the route’s access purpose.

A.4.6 WILDLAND FIRE & FUELS MANAGEMENT

A.4.6.1 Standard Operating Procedures

• Fire suppression will be carried out in a manner consistent with Interagency Standards for 

Fire and Aviation Operations, which is updated on an annual basis by the National 

Interagency Fire Center. Logistical support, operation and coordination, and policies and 

procedures for mobilization of firefighting resources are outlined in the Southwest Area 

Mobilization Guide.

• Fire management activities will continue to avoid disturbing known archaeological sites or 

sites found during such activities. Fires will not be intentionally started at known sites.

Archaeologists will serve as resource advisors for fire management and help develop and

implement fire and fuels management plans, which would address effects on cultural

resources. Fire crews will be educated about the need to protect cultural resources.

• In areas suitable for fire, the BLM will monitor existing air quality levels and weather

conditions to determine which prescribed fires can be ignited and which, if any, must be

delayed to ensure that air quality meets federal and state standards. If air quality approaches

unhealthy levels, the BLM will delay igniting prescribed fires.

• The BLM will update and maintain Fire Management Plans to include site-specific actions for

managing wildfire and fuels in accordance with Federal fire policies and this plan. These plans

will be coordinated with the USFWS and AGFD to address site-specific concerns for 

Federally protected species. Consultation with the USFWS will occur with these projectlevel plans, as necessary.

• Avoid impacts to protected plants or their habitats by developing, modifying, redesigning,

mitigating, or abandoning projects. 

• Use suppression tactics that limit damage or disturbance to the habitat and landscape. Use 

no heavy equipment (such as dozers) unless approved.

• Use fire retardants or chemicals next to waterways in accordance with the Environmental

Guidelines for Delivery of Retardant or Foam near Waterways (Interagency Standards for 

Fire and Aviation Operations Task Group 2004).

• Protect all known cultural resources from disturbance.
Appendix A. Best Management Practices and Standard Operating Procedures

A-24 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan September 2012

• Use MIST, comply with the management plan to the maximum extent possible, and 

coordinate with resource advisors.

• Implement general and species-specific conservation measures to the extent possible to

minimize harm to federally listed, proposed, or candidate species within the action area.

A.5 SPECIAL DESIGNATIONS

None identified.

A.5.1 BACK COUNTRY BYWAYS

• Site-specific analysis will be conducted if road is determined to qualify for nomination, and

appropriate agency, landowner and/or community partnerships have been obtained.

• Prior to the Back Country Byway nomination process, complete locale-specific visitor-use

and potential resource-impact studies to determine if byway designation is appropriate and

consistent with the RMP.

• Coordinate and partner with interested agencies and organizations, including Maricopa

County.

• Manage byways for compatibility with other resource allocations and uses.

• Install speed limit, directional, vehicle safety, and interpretive signs to enhance public use,

enjoyment, and stewardship of byways.

• Develop maps and brochures.

• Continuously coordinate with the AGFD to develop limits of acceptable change for 

resources and road conditions within byway corridors. Monitor for increases in byway 

width; sensitive cultural resources; threatened, endangered, and sensitive species habitat; 

and negative effects to wildlife populations adjacent to byway corridors. If impacts exceed 

limits of acceptable change, management actions would be implemented to reduce resource 

impacts accordingly.

• For the Agua Caliente proposed byways, coordinate with the Yuma Field Office regarding

nomination, implementation and management of the byway.

A.5.2 AREAS OF CRITICAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN

A.5.2.1 Standard Operating Procedures

• All authorized uses would be designed with mitigation to minimize surface disturbance.

• Fences would be designed to reduce adverse impacts to wildlife movement using 

specifications in BLM Manual 1747, local directives, or subsequent guidance. Existing fences 

in wildlife habitat that do not meet BLM specifications would be modified appropriately 

when scheduled for replacement or maintenance.
Appendix A. Best Management Practices and Standard Operating Procedures

September 2012 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan A-25

A.6 SOCIAL & ECONOMIC

A.6.1 PUBLIC HEALTH & SAFETY

A.6.1.1 Standard Operating Procedures

• Releases of hazardous materials will be minimized through compliance with current

regulations. When hazardous materials are released into the environment, their impacts on

each resource will be assessed and the appropriate response, removal, and remedial actions 

to take will be determined.

• All actions (including land-use authorizations and disposals, mining and milling activities, and 

unauthorized land uses) will be evaluated for hazardous materials, waste minimization, and 

pollution prevention. Appropriate mitigation will be identified for surface-disturbing and

disruptive activities associated with all types of hazardous materials and waste management

and all types of fire management.

• Investigate all reported hazardous-materials and solid-wastes sites. Identify the probable

scope of needed containment and clean-up efforts. Plan necessary containment and/or 

cleanup responses on a case-by-case basis as soon as possible upon report.

• Conduct active investigations to identify potentially responsible parties and recover planning,

containment, cleanup, monitoring, investigation, and enforcement costs associated with

spill/release responses.

• Site-specific inventories will be completed when land is being disposed or acquired. It is DOI

policy to minimize potential liability of the department and its bureaus (including the BLM)

by acquiring property that is not contaminated unless directed by Congress, court mandate,

or as determined by the Secretary.

• Mining and milling sites will be inspected to determine appropriate management for

hazardous materials.

• Parties responsible for contamination will be identified and be liable for cleanup and 

resource damage costs, as prescribed by law.

• Maintain current and develop new, as needed, law enforcement/public safety patrol, fire

suppression, and search and rescue programs.

• Complete site-specific inventories when lands are being disposed or acquired. It is

departmental policy to minimize potential liability of the Department of Interior (DOI) and 

its bureaus by acquiring property that is not contaminated unless directed by Congress, 

court mandate, or as determined by the Secretary.

• Inspect mining and milling sites to determine appropriate management for hazardous

materials.

• Evaluate all actions (including land use authorizations and disposals, mining and milling

activities, and unauthorized land uses) for hazardous materials, waste minimization, and

pollution prevention. Minimize releases of hazardous materials through compliance with
Appendix A. Best Management Practices and Standard Operating Procedures

A-26 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan September 2012

current regulations. Identify appropriate mitigation for activities associated with all types of

hazardous materials and waste management and all types of fire management.