HF2866 Summary

• Expands invasive species control provisions by designating (rather than listing) prohibited and regulated invasive species, regulated aquatic macrophytes, and defining nonnative species to include parts and all life stages whether alive or dead.

• Modifies wild rice harvesting to allow residents under 18 to harvest without a license if accompanied by a licensed person, and recognizes tribal band members with valid tribal identification as automatically licensed.

• Creates expedited rulemaking procedures under section 14.389 for invasive species designations and certain game and fish rules, allowing rules to be effective up to 7 days before publication if emergency conditions exist and attorney general approves.

• Increases civil penalties for aquatic invasive species violations ranging from $25 to $500, with enhanced penalties (double) for repeat offenders; adds new violations for failing to comply with decontamination orders and training requirements.

• Prohibits logging in Sand Dunes State Forest for oak savanna creation until July 1, 2017, and requires reports on prescribed burn certification standards and citizen collaboration in forest management decisions.