Mojave National Preserve proposes to develop a comprehensive, ecosystem-scale management plan for water throughout this 1.6-million acre unit of the national park system. Mojave National Preserve has natural, modified, and artificial sources of water throughout its lands. The NPS seeks to determine desired future conditions through a public scoping process with hunters groups, environmental organization, park visitors, and state and federal agencies. Future condition targets will be defined in accordance with existing laws, regulations, and NPS management policies. Park staff is working with the NPS Environmental Quality Division to develop a comprehensive approach to management of water resources in Mojave National Preserve.

* indicates the current step in the planning process
Step 1. Conduct external scoping
Step 2. Prepare draft plan/environmental document
Step 3. Refine alternatives *
Step 4. Public review of draft plan/environmental document
Step 5. Analysis of public comment
Step 6. Prepare final plan/decision document
Step 7. Release final plan/decision document to the public

The Preserve seeks to find a balance between maintaining the "natural" character, primarily the presence and sustainability of desert bighorn sheep, with minimum impact to other wilderness values.