Bill > HB06261

This bill aims to enhance forest conservation efforts by establishing new requirements for identifying, studying, and protecting mature and old-growth forests in the state. Specifically, the bill mandates that mature and old-growth forests become priority areas for acquisition by the state's natural area preserves system and brings their definition, identification, and management under the oversight of the Natural Heritage, Open Space and Watershed Land Acquisition Review Board. By February 15, 2026, this board must submit a comprehensive report to the General Assembly detailing a plan to define, identify, and complete an inventory of old-growth and mature forests, as well as analyze potential threats to these forests. Furthermore, starting February 15, 2027, and annually thereafter, the board is required to submit progress reports that include recommendations for conservation strategies aimed at managing and maximizing protection of mature and old-growth forests and their associated rare natural resources. The overall purpose is to proactively document and safeguard these environmentally crucial forest ecosystems, recognizing their importance to the state's ecological landscape.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=HB06261&which_year=2025