Compatible Use Buffers: A New Weapon to Battle Encroachment

The foundation of Army operational readiness is highly trained soldiers. To conduct tough, realistic training, commanders require continued access to critical ranges and training lands. Encroachment from population growth, urban development, and environmental requirements limits the Army's ability to fully utilize our installations for realistic combat training. Congress recently acknowledged the threat of encroachment to military readiness and provided a legislative tool that allows the Army to work with other government or private partners to establish buffer areas around active ranges and training lands. Published in Enginerr, p12-15, Oct-Dec 2004.