Resource Management Plans (RMPs) are foundational documents that describe the defining natural, cultural, and recreational resources in DCR’s parks. RMPs also identify potential threats and opportunities to guide agency stewardship actions. The goal of RMPs is to ensure that each park’s special features are celebrated and preserved. RMPs are a key part of meeting DCR’s agency mission.
RMP program staff develop RMPs through a collaborative process that includes public input. The DCR Stewardship Council must approve all RMPs as the last step in their adoption by the agency.
Key Actions
Legislative Mandate
Massachusetts law requires DCR to prepare RMPs for “all reservations, parks, and forests under the management of the Department.” M.G.L. c. 21 § 2F states that:
“Said management plans shall include guidelines for operations and land stewardship of the aforementioned reservations, parks, and forests, shall provide for the protection and stewardship of natural and cultural resources and shall ensure consistency between recreation, resource protection, and sustainable forest management.”
“The Commissioner shall seek and consider public input in the development of management plans, and shall make draft plans available for a public review and comment period through notice in the Environmental Monitor.”
“Within thirty days of the adoption of such management plans, as amended from time to time, the Commissioner shall file a copy of such plans as adopted by the Council with the State Secretary and the Joint Committee on Natural Resources and Agriculture of the General Court.”
“The Commissioner shall be responsible for implementing said management plans.”
DCR regulations (304 CMR 7.02) also help guide preparation of RMPs. These regulations require that:
“For each state reservation, park, or forest, DCR shall follow a management planning process which shall produce the following components:
- a description of the land’s unique resources;
- a discussion of the land’s potential uses;
- land stewardship zoning analysis; and
- action recommendations
Each Management Plan shall have public participation in its development with review and approval by the Stewardship Council.”
Formally adopted RMPs are made available to the public and other interested groups through the State Library of Massachusetts.