CA AB256

Removes requirement that lessees of rice lands must have owners of record execute contracts; allows either owners or lessees to independently enter into contracts with the Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Revises definition of "productive agricultural rice lands that are winter-flooded" to require fields farmed to rice in each growing season before contracted winter flooding seasons and maintained in flooded state for at least 70 days between October 15 and March 15.

Modifies contract obligations to allow landowners or lessees to rotate acres annually while maintaining minimum contracted acreage for each winter flooding season, rather than requiring fixed designated acres.

Authorizes the Department of Fish and Wildlife to enter into agreements with qualified entities possessing demonstrated experience in California rice farming and wildlife conservation practices to administer conservation contracts on behalf of the department.

Maintains initial 3-year contract term and existing requirements for payment calculations, refund obligations upon violation, and monitoring compliance with the waterfowl habitat conservation program.