WV HB2399

Landowners with managed timberland must certify to the Division of Forestry every five years (changed from annual certification) that their property meets managed timberland requirements for property tax purposes.

Property certified as managed timberland is valued according to its use and productive potential, and forest management practices must comply with "Best Management Practices for Forestry."

The Division of Forestry must maintain an online renewal process for the Managed Timberland Program, with a simplified renewal form if no information has changed since the last submission.

Both the State Tax Commissioner and the Division of Forestry are granted rulemaking authority to administer valuation, classification, designation, and certification of managed timberland for tax purposes.

The bill takes effect July 6, 2025 (90 days from passage on April 7, 2025).