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IN SB0312
Bill
AI Summary
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Designates 13 wild areas across Indiana state forests as "designated wild areas," including Cataract Wild Area (1,680 acres), Cold Friday Wild Area (3,950 acres), Knobstone Wild Area (5,680 acres), and 10 others totaling approximately 38,000 acres
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Prohibits logging, mineral extraction, energy development, motorized vehicles, road building, utility easements, commercial enterprises, motorized equipment, and herbicide use in designated wild areas, with exceptions for emergency services, fire control, and disease management
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Permits recreational activities including hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding on designated trails, camping at identified campsites, gathering edible plants and mushrooms, and hunting and fishing consistent with existing regulations
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Requires the Department of Natural Resources to manage designated wild areas to preserve natural values and relatively undisturbed character, post signage on perimeters, and maintain maps and legal descriptions by January 1, 2019
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Allows continuation of easements and access to private property and cemeteries that existed before areas became designated wild areas, and permits the department to require permits for entry and activities
Legislative Description
Designated wild areas in certain state forests. 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 (DNR) and divisions of the DNR that manage designated wild areas.
Last Action
First reading: referred to Committee on Natural Resources
1/4/2018