Tenant Spotlight: The BLM State Office

We are thrilled to introduce a new feature in this edition of the DFC Newsletter: our very first agency spotlight on the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) State Office. It’s been just over a year since we welcomed the BLM State Office to DFC Buildings 40 and 1A. The state agency’s work is vital and has a significant impact on Colorado’s vast and diverse landscapes. Also, having the State BLM office on the DFC, managed by GSA, plays an important part in supporting their work.

The BLM’s mission, “to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations,” is arguably the broadest mission of any natural resources agency. Colorado’s public lands, which account for more than one-third of the state, are rich in resources, including coal, oil, natural gas, and geothermal power, all contributing significantly to the nation’s energy needs. The State Office manages over 8.3 million acres of public lands and more than 27 million acres of mineral estate in Colorado, with a focus primarily on the western part of the state. Their work encompasses a wide range of activities, from recreation to oil and gas development, including some of the premier water recreation sports in the country.

With only 100 employees tasked with such a significant mission, working at the BLM State Office is both challenging and rewarding. The office interacts frequently with the State Government, Governor’s office, Colorado Fish & Wildlife, Colorado State Parks, and county governments, fostering a strong network of interconnectedness. Currently, the team is celebrating a significant achievement: the withdrawal of over 200,000 acres from the Thomas Divide area in western Colorado from mining and oil and gas development for the next 20 years. This project, which began two years ago, involved extensive mapping by mineral experts, public input meetings, and collaboration with the US Forest Service, culminating in the DOI Secretary’s approval in spring 2024.

Additionally, the Office manages BLM CO manages three wild horse herd management areas and one wild horse range. BLM’s Wildhorse Program attracts attention from national interest groups and international organizations alike. Colorado is home to approximately 1,200 wild horses located in four different areas of the state, showcasing the BLM’s commitment to preserving these majestic animals. The State Office also features a public room located in Building 1A, where the general public can access state land maps, hunting and fishing information, and purchase America the Beautiful passes.

After 30 years in a leased space in Wheat Ridge, CO, moving to the DFC marked a significant change for the agency. Like most changes there were some growing pains but the agency is now enjoying the relaxing and calm atmosphere of the DFC, along with the synergy created by being part of a federal campus. 

We are proud to spotlight the BLM State Office and their tremendous contributions to Colorado’s landscapes and natural resources. Stay tuned for more features on the incredible agencies that call the DFC home.
 

*To learn more about the BLM State Office, please visit their web site.