Bill > SB653

This bill adds a new section to California's Public Resources Code that defines and promotes environmentally sensitive vegetation management as a strategy for wildfire prevention. The bill defines this approach as vegetation management that reduces long-term catastrophic wildfire risk while simultaneously supporting native wildlife and biodiversity. It requires state public entities that fund vegetation management projects to consider incorporating twelve specific criteria into their grant program guidelines, including following integrated pest management principles, supporting native plant health, maximizing long-term wildfire risk reduction, using monitoring plans, mimicking natural disturbance processes, minimizing wildlife and invasive plant impacts, reducing erosion, consulting with botanical experts, protecting watershed health, using prescribed grazing where appropriate, avoiding habitat type conversion, and implementing measures to protect rare or sensitive species and habitats. The legislation aims to encourage vegetation management practices that maintain ecological health and strengthen biodiversity while mitigating wildfire risks, recognizing the complex interplay between environmental conservation and fire prevention in California's diverse landscapes.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB653