SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION 59

(By Senators Maynard, Beach, Cline, Karnes, Rucker, Smith, Stollings, and Sypolt)

[Originating in the Committee on Natural Resources; Reported on March 8, 2018]

Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance study possible methods to enhance forest management on state lands.

Whereas, Proper forest management planning of state lands provides a means of allowing the state to practice good stewardship of its property and what the state can realize from that property in economic, environmental, and recreational terms; and

Whereas, Proper forest management planning provides a means of identifying what can be done to enhance and protect the values and aspects of state lands that are most important to the state and its citizens; and

Whereas, Proper forest management planning helps ensure that state lands and resources will be in good condition for future generations; therefore, be it

Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:

That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is hereby requested to study possible methods to enhance forest management on state lands; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the study include: A description of the state lands to be managed; a specific list of goals or objectives for management of those lands, including, but not limited to, improving and maintaining forest health, increasing wildlife diversity, and expanding recreational areas; and a description of activities to be performed in those lands to realize the goals and objectives identified; and, be it

Further Resolved, That input shall be sought from appropriate state, local, and private agencies and organizations, including the Division of Natural Resources and the Division of Forestry; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report to the regular session of the Legislature, 2019, on its findings, conclusions, and other recommendations, together with drafts of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendations; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct this study, prepare a report, and draft necessary legislation be paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.