AK SB85

Allows department to approve timber sales before adopting site-specific forest land use plans, though plans remain required for harvests over 20 acres except salvage operations.

Eliminates restrictions on negotiated timber sales, removing the requirement that sales over 500,000 board feet be advertised and the one-year limit on sales to the same purchaser.

Prohibits persons from appealing forest land use plan decisions to the commissioner, making such decisions final.

Requires commissioner to consider buyer commitments to hire state residents, contract with state businesses, establish in-state hiring facilities, and use state job centers when making timber disposal decisions.

Exempts negotiated timber sales of 500,000 board feet or less from public notice requirements and takes effect immediately.