Each schedule is comprised of an introduction followed by additional pages that present the series descriptions and disposition authorities in two columns. The introductory page of each schedule provides an overview of the records covered by the schedule and describes any additional NARA requirements. Series Description and Disposition Authority Columns. In order to authorize the disposition of records, NARA needs to know what agency programs the information supports, the authorizing law or directive for the programs, and a description of the information in the series. The authorizing law or directive is usually shown by a citation to the relevant Code of Federal Regulations or U.S. Code.
Some authorities contain recordkeeping instructions.
When the authorities are extensive, a cross-reference is provided to the BLM Manual where the list of authorities can be found. The records access category number and, if applicable, the Privacy Act system number are included in the series description. See Section C of this Appendix for a listing of current Privacy Act Systems referenced in the series description. If records are vital, they must be duplicated and stored off-site. Location of duplicates should be identified.