Bill > S03434

This bill amends the New York Environmental Conservation Law to expand exemptions for agricultural and silvicultural activities in wetland areas. Specifically, the bill adds a provision that when selectively cutting timber, the construction and use of temporary skidder trails and machinery (using current best management practices as defined by the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Services) will be excluded from regulated activities and will not require a permit. The bill maintains existing protections by ensuring that structures not required for agricultural productivity and filling activities are still subject to regulation. The key change is to provide more flexibility for landowners engaged in timber harvesting by removing permitting requirements when they follow established best management practices. This amendment aims to support agricultural and forestry activities while still maintaining environmental protections for wetland areas. The bill will take effect immediately upon passage.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S3434