Forest Protection Flexibility: Allowing Non-Profits to Manage Conservation Easements.
This law enhances the ability to protect valuable forest lands by allowing states to authorize accredited non-profit organizations (like land trusts) to acquire and manage conservation easements under the federal Forest Legacy Program. This change aims to accelerate the preservation of forest ecosystems and prevent development on critical timberlands. For citizens, this means stronger, more flexible protection of natural areas.
Key points
States gain the authority to approve qualified, accredited non-profit organizations to hold and manage conservation easements on forest lands.
The goal is to increase the efficiency and capacity of the Forest Legacy Program to protect forests from development.
Strict eligibility rules ensure that only experienced and accredited organizations can participate, with safeguards allowing the state to reclaim the easement if rules are broken.
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