Meeting current challenges to DOD's conservation program

The Department of Defense (DOD) is a major user of land, sea, and airspace. The steward of 25 million acres, DOD is the third-largest federal land management department in the United States. Many rich and varied natural and cultural resources are present on DOD installations. DOD's conservation goal is to support the military mission while managing these important resources for multiple uses for future generations. DOD faces significant challenges in achieving this goal. Military mission demands on these resources are increasing, and various stakeholders have potentially conflicting ideas on how to manage and use these resources. Further, downsizing may affect DOD's ability to effectively manage these resources. Potential solutions include emphasizing regional ecosystem management, promoting new partnerships and enhancing existing ones, seeking legislative improvements, expanding training and public awareness programs, and developing new management tools and techniques.