AK HB72

Creates a new timber management lease program allowing the Commissioner of Natural Resources to issue leases up to 55 years (with one renewal option) for private parties to harvest and manage timber on state forest land

Lessees must maintain sustained yield of merchantable timber and provide for reforestation, fire prevention, pest control, and road construction/maintenance

Establishes a competitive request-for-proposals process where applicants are evaluated on factors including public benefits, forest investments, industry impact, qualifications, and state revenue

Applies to state forests and the Haines State Forest Resource Management Area, with leased lands required to follow applicable forest management plans but exempted from certain standard timber sale statutes (AS 38.05.110-120)

Exempts timber management leases from state procurement code requirements and standard written finding procedures required for other land disposals