Experienced Services Program

The Experienced Service Program (ESP) is a federal initiative designed to bring the valuable knowledge, skills, and experience of older Americans into the work of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). As the BLM oversees millions of acres of public lands across the United States, it relies on a workforce with deep understanding of natural resources, cultural heritage, recreation management, environmental protection, and more. Over time, many of the people who have shaped this work retire, and with them goes critical institutional knowledge. ESP helps bridge that gap. ESP serves two main groups: 1. Older Americans looking to continue contributing their skills. Under the authority provided to the Department of the Interior, the BLM partners with nonprofit organizations designated by the Secretary of Labor under Title V of the Older Americans Act. These organizations specialize in creating pathways for older adults to remain active in the workforce, share their expertise, and take part in meaningful work that benefits their communities and the nation. 2. BLM programs and offices that need experienced talent. Many BLM programs—such as energy development, cultural and natural resources, recreation, grazing, forestry, and environmental compliance—can benefit from specialized experience. ESP placements help bolster capacity in these offices, especially in areas where retirements have created significant losses in institutional knowledge. Several features set ESP apart from other federal service or workforce programs: 1. A focus on older, highly experienced professionals Unlike many workforce or volunteer programs that target students or early-career individuals, ESP is specifically intended to leverage the talents of older Americans. These participants bring decades of practical knowledge and professional expertise that can be otherwise difficult to replace. 2. Flexible project-based support Assignments through ESP are tailored to match both BLM needs and participant strengths. This flexibility makes ESP highly responsive—projects can receive precisely the level and type of expertise needed without lengthy hiring processes or permanent staffing changes. 3. Partnership-driven model ESP uses a cooperative agreement structure, working through nonprofit organizations that specialize in serving and placing older adults. This model supports efficient recruitment, onboarding, and participant support. 4. Benefits to local communities Many ESP participants live in or near the communities where they serve. Their work supports local economies, strengthens public-land partnerships, and provides opportunities for older adults to remain active and engaged.

Documentation demonstrating the organization’s proof of establishment under the Secretary of Labor Title V of the Older American Act of 1965, and proof of past performance in recruiting and provide employment opportunities for individuals 55 years of age and older. 2 CFR 200, Subpart E - Cost Principles applies to this program.
2 CFR 200, Subpart E - Cost Principles applies to this program.