About Us

We're a small agency with a big mission.

History of BLM

Two men on horses riding up a hill.The BLM was established in 1946, but its roots go back to the years after America’s independence, when the young nation began acquiring additional lands.  At first, these lands were used to encourage homesteading and westward migration.  The General Land Office was created in 1812 to support this national goal.

Over time, values and attitudes regarding public lands shifted, and President Harry S. Truman, by means of a government reorganization, merged the GLO and another agency, the U.S. Grazing Service, creating the BLM.  

Explore BLM’s history through stories, video and more.

Read "Opportunity and Challenge: The Story of the BLM."

BLM Org Chart

BLM Organization Chart

View our organization chart.

How We Manage

The BLM manages for multiple use across regions and landscapes, with partners and using sound science. Before you explore our programs, understand the foundation of how we manage.

What We Manage

A landscape with oil and gas development in the distance

Learn about the public lands and resources managed by the BLM, from National Conservation Lands to our nation's cultural resources to fish and wildlife habitat.

Secretary's 10 Priorities

  1. Create a conservation stewardship legacy second only to Teddy Roosevelt.
  2. Sustainably develop our energy and natural resources.
  3. Restore trust and be a good neighbor.
  4. Ensure tribal sovereignty means something.
  5. Increase revenues to support the Department and national interests.
  6. Protect our people and the border.
  7. Strike a regulatory balance.
  8. Modernize our infrastructure.
  9. Reorganize the Department for the next 100 years.
  10. Achieve our goals and lead our team forward.

Our Mission

To sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

Read more about our mission.