Department of Defense
The Department of Defense (DOD) has a history of commitment to environmental security and the management of resources that have been entrusted to its stewardship. In addition, DOD is bound by certain Federal land management laws, such as the Endangered Species Act and the National Environmental Policy Act, and has developed regulations pertaining to resources management.
What is green infrastructure at DOD?
This agency does not specifically define green infrastructure, but uses it as a component of its strategies dealing with land conservation and economic and community development issues.
What DOD departments are involved in green infrastructure?
The Office of the Deputy Under Secretary Of Defense Installations and Environment’s (I&E) mission is to provide installation assets and services necessary to support military forces in a cost effective, safe, sustainable and environmentally sound manner. Within I&E, the Readiness and Environmental Protection Initiative (REPI), part of the Department of Defenses’ Sustainable Ranges Initiative, is DOD’s core effort aimed at protecting military readiness by preventing incompatible development and preserving habitat through buffer projects, supportive education, engagement, and regional planning. Military Buffer zones account for millions of acres of conservation land, preserve green infrastructure and protect ecosystem services, and protect defense test and support services. DOD partners with conservation organizations, (e.g. the Nature Conservancy) and state and local governments, to preserve buffer land and habitat around military installations and ranges.
Additional DOD green infrastructure resources:
- Department of Defense Installation Watershed Impact Assessment Protocol report assesses the potential impact of installation activities on watersheds.
- The Sustainable Ranges Initiative ensures the long-term viability and continuity of military training and testing ranges while providing good stewardship for the land.
- Collaborative Land Use Planning: A Guide for Military Installations and Local Governments provides an overview of how collaboration between regional councils and military installations is crucial to ensure that the presence of military installations within a community does not negatively impact either.
- Working to Preserve Farm, Forest and Ranch Lands assists DOD planners on how to work with communities to help conserve land for farming, protect valuable habitat to support well-planned growth, and preserve significant historical and cultural assets while promoting military development.