CT SB00444

Establishes an Important Bird Areas Program administered by the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection to identify and safeguard state-owned waters and lands that provide habitat for native wild birds.

Designates eligible areas based on criteria including waterfowl concentrations (2,000+ birds), pelagic seabird locations (100+ birds), shorebird concentrations (300+ birds), wading bird concentrations (100+ birds), migratory corridors, diverse species habitats, species-at-risk locations, and bird research locations with 5+ years of documented studies.

Requires qualifying nonprofit organizations to have trained individuals collect scientific data and be available to assist the commissioner, businesses, property owners, and local governments in implementing bird conservation strategies.

Creates an Important Bird Areas Program Advisory Committee with representatives from state wildlife and parks divisions, academic institutions, qualifying nonprofits, and the State Ornithologist to advise on eligibility criteria and management of designated areas.

Requires public notice and 30-day comment periods for both designation and removal of important bird areas, with management guidance summaries developed for each designated area outlining conservation resources, opportunities, and threats.