Loading chat...
IN HB1580
Bill
Status
1/20/2015
Primary Sponsor
Matt Pierce
Click for details
AI Summary
-
Designates 13 specific wild areas across Indiana state forests totaling approximately 38,260 acres, including areas in Owen-Putnam, Harrison-Crawford, Clark, Morgan-Monroe, Yellowwood, Jackson-Washington, and Ferdinand state forests.
-
Prohibits logging, mineral extraction, energy development, motorized vehicles, roads, utility easements, commercial enterprises, motorized equipment, herbicides, and most permanent structures within designated wild areas, with exceptions for emergency services, fire control, and disease management.
-
Permits hiking, camping, mountain biking and horseback riding on designated trails, hunting, fishing, trapping, and gathering edible plants and mushrooms in accordance with law and department management.
-
Requires the Department of Natural Resources to prepare maps and legal descriptions of each designated wild area by January 1, 2016, post perimeter signs, and manage areas to preserve their natural values and relatively undisturbed character.
-
Allows the department to require permits for entry and continued activities, maintain pre-existing roads and easements, and impose access limits to prevent deterioration or overuse in designated wild areas.
Legislative Description
Designated wild areas. Provides that 13 specified areas within certain state forests are designated wild areas. Specifies certain activities that are prohibited or allowed within a designated wild area. Establishes responsibilities for the department of natural resources and divisions that manage designated wild areas.
Last Action
First Reading: referred to Committee on Natural Resources
1/20/2015