Bill > SB809

This bill modifies the managed timberland certification requirements for tax assessment purposes by changing the frequency of certification from annually to every five years. Currently, timberland owners must annually certify to the Division of Forestry that their property meets the definition of managed timberland and agrees to manage the property according to approved forestry practices. The new bill reduces this administrative burden by requiring certification only once every five years. The bill also grants rulemaking authority to the Division of Forestry, allowing them to develop formal guidelines for the managed timberland program. Additionally, the bill requires the Division of Forestry to create an online renewal process by October 1, 2023, which will simplify the certification process. The online form will allow property owners to quickly renew their managed timberland status, with a simple checkbox if no information has changed. The purpose of this bill is to reduce paperwork for timberland owners while maintaining the state's goal of preserving forest land and providing tax incentives for its management, ultimately supporting the state's timber industry and forest conservation efforts.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=809&year=2025&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill