EP 1130-2-540
15 Nov 96
CHAPTER 2 - NATURAL RESOURCES STEWARDSHIP
2-1. Purpose. This chapter establishes guidance for the administration and management of
environmental stewardship and natural resource management activities at USACE civil works
water resource projects. The reader should also see EP 200-2-3 for additional guidance.
2-2. Background.
a. Program Mission.
"
The Army Corps of Engineers is the steward of the lands and waters at Corps water
resources projects. Its Natural Resources Management Mission is to manage and conserve those
natural resources, consistent with eco-system management principles, while providing quality public
outdoor recreation experiences to serve the needs of present and future generations.
In all aspects of natural and cultural resources management, the Corps promotes awareness
of environmental values and adheres to sound environmental stewardship, protection, compliance and
restoration practices.
The Corps manages for long-term public access to, and use of, the natural resources in
cooperation with other Federal, State, and local agencies as well as the private sector.
The Corps integrates the management of diverse natural resource components such as fish,
wildlife, forests, wetlands, grasslands, soil, air, and water with the provision of public recreation
opportunities. The Corps conserves natural resources and provides public recreation opportunities
that contribute to the quality of American life."
b. Program Objectives. The objectives of the Natural Resources Management Program
are:
(1) To manage natural resources on Corps of Engineers administered land and water in
accordance with ecosystem management principles, to insure their continued availability.
(2) To provide outdoor recreation opportunities on Corps of Engineers administered land
and water on a sustained basis.
(3) To provide a safe and healthful environment for project visitors.
c. Implementation. The objectives stated in the preceding paragraph will be accomplished
by maintaining qualified professionals at all levels of the resource management program, and by
developing and fully implementing project operational management plans (OMP).
2-3. General Guidance.
a. Operational Management Plan.
(1) General. The operations element, with the coordination of the planning, real estate
and safety elements will develop and implement an Operational Management Plan (OMP) for all
operational projects in accordance with the approved Master Plan (MP). The OMP will include
two parts: (1) Natural Resources Management and (2) Park Management. Objectives and
2-1
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