The record of decision for the precedent-setting land management strategy developed for the Barry Goldwater Range has been signed. According to Teresa Walker of the 56th Range Management Office at Luke AFB, Ariz., it took seven years and an act of Congress. Jim Uken, 56th RMO director, says the Goldwater Range Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan is one of several being prepared within DOD, but its “scope and complexity … is clearly at the upper end of the spectrum.” The Air Force and Marine Corps share responsibility for eastern and western portions of the range, respectively.
The Department of the Air Force wants to launch a construction boom with its fiscal 2027 budget, more than doubling its request over 2026, according to budget documents.