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IN SB0365
Bill
Status
1/11/2016
Primary Sponsor
Eric Bassler
Click for details
AI Summary
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Department of Natural Resources must designate at least one old forest area comprising at least 10% of each state forest before January 1, 2017, with a target size of at least 500 acres wherever possible.
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Timber management, including harvesting, planting trees, fertilization, thinning, and weeding, is prohibited in designated old forest areas.
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Designations must be guided by seven purposes: retaining trees of all age classes, providing wildlife habitat, protecting sensitive areas, protecting water resources, providing recreation, maintaining aesthetic value, and creating control areas for forest research and comparison.
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Department must produce and maintain maps and legal descriptions of all designated old forest areas beginning January 1, 2017.
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Designation does not affect hunting, fishing, trapping, gathering of plants and mushrooms, recreational uses, access road maintenance, existing property access rights, invasive species control, emergency services, or fire suppression in state forests.
Legislative Description
Designation of old forest areas in state forests. Requires the department of natural resources, before January 1, 2017, to designate as an old forest area at least one undivided area comprising at least ten percent (10%) of each state forest. Provides that, wherever possible, the size of a designated old forest area must be at least 500 acres. Sets forth certain purposes that are to guide the department in designating the old forest areas. Prohibits the department from conducting or allowing timber management in the old forest areas. Requires the department to produce and keep on file maps and legal
Last Action
Senator Tomes added as coauthor
1/21/2016