Natural Resource Users Law and Policy Center

Helping natural resource users, policymakers, and communities navigate increasingly complex legal and policy issues affecting land, water, forestry, agriculture, and public lands.

Natural resource users face complex legal, regulatory, and policy challenges

Since 2015, we've helped people and communities navigate these complexities by providing trusted research, policy analysis and on the ground support for stakeholders that drives informed decision-making and responsible resource stewardship.

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Latest work

Analysis of Proposed Revisions to USFS Directives and Guidance

Released July 27, 2026

On July 1st, the Forest Service issued a proposed rule that seeks to revise and clarify the relationship between internal guidance documents and change how they share required public notices associated with the formulation of standards, guidelines, and or criteria. This white paper explains the significance of the proposed rule and identifies example provisions contained within the Grazing Permit Administration handbook that may warrant codification.

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Proposed BLM Revisions of Regulations for Grazing Administration, Exclusive of Alaska

Released July 10, 2026

On May 12, 2026, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) issued a notice of a proposed rule that could significantly revise the BLM grazing program, including by altering the appeals procedures and expanding the fundamentals of rangeland health & standards beyond livestock grazing administration. This memo provides insight on the proposed changes and expected impacts for natural resource stakeholders, including ranchers, land managers, and the public.

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New Uses for Arizona's Forest Biomass

Released August 1, 2026

The Four Forest Restoration Initiative in northern Arizona produces more woody material than existing markets can use. This flyer explores how branches, treetops, and small logs can become engineered wood products, biochar, and fuels. It also explains the challenges to scaling these technologies and markets for valorized biomass products.

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Connect with the NRULPC

Have a natural resource law or policy question, a research need, or an opportunity to collaborate?
Contact the NRULPC to explore educational programs, partnerships, and resources relevant to your work.

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We work at the intersection of law, policy, science, and Extension to address issues affecting forests, rangelands, water resources, agriculture, and public lands.