Bill > H894

This bill proposes several key provisions related to forest management and practices in Massachusetts. It requires the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) and the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife to conduct a formal review of their forest management guidelines and practices every five years, with the goal of protecting and preserving the state's natural resources. The bill also establishes a Public Land Management Advisory Council to coordinate and oversee this ongoing review process. Additionally, the bill aims to increase the acreage of forest reserves, with a target of designating a minimum of 30% of DCR's watershed lands and 30% of the Division's publicly owned wildlife management areas as reserves by 2030. The bill also requires the agencies to solicit public input on their forest management practices and to submit their findings, updated guidelines, and recommendations for statutory changes to the state legislature.