AK HB219

Eliminates the requirement for forest land use plans to be adopted prior to awarding timber sale contracts, though plans remain required for individual harvest units before timber harvest occurs.

Prohibits reconsideration or appeal of forest land use plan adoption decisions to the commissioner under AS 44.37.011.

Allows negotiated timber sales of 500,000 board feet or less without a written finding requirement, but limits such sales to the same purchaser to a maximum of 500,000 board feet within any one-year period.

Requires the commissioner to consider five specific factors when making best interest findings for negotiated timber sales: local timber market, specialized markets, underutilized timber, economic constraints, and other reasonably foreseeable economic benefits.

Takes effect immediately upon enactment.