HB 329 Summary

• Allows certified hatcheries to transfer geoduck seed to aquatic farms in fisheries management areas contiguous to islands in the Aleutian Chain or the Gulf of Alaska.

• Permits tideland leases issued under AS 38.05.070, 38.05.075, and 38.05.810 to be renewed only once for a term not longer than the initial lease term.

• Makes appraisal and survey of aquatic farming or hatchery operation sites discretionary rather than mandatory, requiring written commissioner determination.

• Allows aquatic farm leases to be renewed for up to 20 years and gives lessees preference in lease renewal or reissuance if in the state's best interests.

• Requires public notice to persons leasing or applying to lease land under AS 38.05.083 when carbon management applications are received for land within 25 miles of their proposed lease site.