On April 20, 2012, President Obama signed a Proclamation to designate the Fort Ord National Monument.  In his proclamation, the President stated that, "The protection of the Fort Ord area will maintain its historical and cultural significance, attract tourists and recreationalists from near and far, and enhance its unique natural resources, for the enjoyment of all Americans."

The Fort Ord National Monument holds some of the last undeveloped natural wildlands on the Monterey Peninsula.  Located on the former Fort Ord military base, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) protects and manages 35 species of rare plants and animals along with their native coastal habitats.  Habitat preservation and conservation are primary missions for the Fort Ord Public Lands but there are also more than 86 miles of trails for the public to explore on foot, bike or horseback.

The BLM is working with several Community Partners to help this former military base become available for public use.  The goal of the community-based Fort Ord Reuse Plan (1997) is to:

"Promote the best use of land through well planned and balanced development which ensures educational and economic opportunities as well as environmental protection."

In order to help Fort Ord change from military to public use, the BLM will manage it's portion of the base to protect rare habitat in such a way that compensates for the loss of habitat on portions of Fort Ord that will be (or have been) developed.  BLM will work with surrounding communities to manage these public lands to also provide high quality, environmentally-sensitive recreational opportunities.