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IN SB0286
Bill
AI Summary
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Designates 13 wild areas totaling approximately 37,000 acres across 7 Indiana state forests, including Knobstone Wild Area (5,680 acres), Spurgeon Hollow Wild Area (4,000 acres), and Cold Friday Wild Area (3,950 acres), effective July 1, 2019
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Prohibits logging, mineral extraction, energy development, motorized vehicles, road building, utility easements, herbicide use, and commercial enterprises within designated wild areas
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Permits hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding on designated trails, hunting, fishing, trapping, overnight camping at identified sites, and gathering of edible plants and mushrooms
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Requires DNR to prepare accurate maps and legal descriptions by January 1, 2020, post perimeter signs, and manage areas to preserve natural values and undisturbed character
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Allows exceptions to prohibitions for emergency medical assistance, search and rescue, fire control, and invasive species/disease management using least intrusive methods
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
1/7/2019