Bill > HB0101

This bill establishes a new Forest Health Grant Program in Wyoming, administered by the state forester, which will provide grants to fund forest health projects on state, local government, or private lands. The grants will cover up to 75% of project costs, with matching funds required from other sources, and can support projects aimed at improving water yield/quality, reducing wildfire risks, increasing forest product production, enhancing wildlife and livestock habitat, or other beneficial forest health initiatives. The program will be funded through a newly created grant program account, which can receive funds from various sources, including state appropriations and donations. Critically, the attorney general must provide a written opinion certifying the legality of each grant. The state forester is required to submit an annual report on grant awards by September 1st, and the program has a sunset date of July 1, 2029, after which any unobligated funds will be returned to their original sources. The bill includes an initial appropriation of $3 million from the general fund to jumpstart the grant program, with the legislature intending to include additional funding in future budget requests. The program will become effective on July 1, 2025.

Budget and Finance

Select Water (Other)

https://www.wyoleg.gov/Legislation/2025/HB0101