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project which calls for an "out of the box" solution. Based on conversations and team strategy meetings <br /> with the USFWS, opportunities and ideas emerged that warrant a closer look. <br /> As a federal agency, USFWS has the same mandates associated with threatened and endangered species <br /> management. It is unrealistic to consider BLM developing a co management strategy with anyone but a <br /> federal partner. Additionally, <br /> • The USFWS has historically been a growing organization. USFWS continues to add land and <br /> units to its refuge system and with this increased resource, a growing budget. <br /> • Core mission and vision is a good fit for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. <br /> • A federal land management partner and its tool box would be an important asset to retain in the <br /> West Eugene Wetlands Partnership. <br /> Further, the USFWS is exploring opportunities to expand the Finley Wildlife Refuge complex due west <br /> of and contiguous with the current BLM- administered lands, it would make sense to integrate our <br /> collective vision for this landscape through a coordinated land use planning process that would <br /> complement the USFWS acquisition strategy. <br /> Through such a planning process, it is anticipated that alternatives would emerge that could articulate <br /> cooperative management strategies of BLM - administered lands. Such cooperation would build our <br /> collective capacity to bring to bear the resources needed for threatened, endangered and sensitive species <br /> management and critical habitat restoration. <br /> Co- planning efforts will also allow our partner, USFWS, to be involved early on, shape the plan to meet <br /> each of our agencies' needs, and create options based on a co- management approach. If BLM and <br /> USFWS are going to work together to manage the WEW, it makes sense to work together on the plan <br /> that will guide the management of the WEW. <br /> State Director Support <br /> The Eugene District is seeking the continued support and guidance of the OSO and the State Director as <br /> we move from development of options and strategic planning to "finalize the best option. " Once a "best <br /> option" is identified and fully supported by BLM management, the strategy team will shift its efforts to <br /> develop an implementation plan for the execution of the WEW: Sustainable Management Strategy. <br /> • <br /> WEW Vision 2009/2010 page 5 <br />