Bill > A00520

This bill establishes a new tax credit program to encourage forestry stewardship and habitat conservation in New York State. The credit allows landowners who own at least 25 contiguous acres of land to receive a tax credit equal to 25% of their real property taxes if they enter into an agreement with the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to preserve wildlife habitat or participate in forest management programs. To qualify, the land must be inspected by a wildlife or fisheries biologist and determined to be valuable habitat or suitable for wildlife-related recreation. Landowners must commit to a habitat conservation plan or forest certification program for at least five years, and the agreement must be recorded with the county. The credit is capped at $10,000 per year, and any excess credit can be refunded. The bill applies to both personal income and business franchise taxes, creating an incentive for landowners to maintain and protect forested and wildlife-rich lands in New York State.

Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A520