Revision: Feb. 20, 2024, 4:30 p.m.
Rep. Caplan, Merr. 8
February 20, 2024
2024-0797h
08/05
Floor Amendment to HB 1423-FN
Amend RSA 227-G:4, XII as inserted by section 1 of the bill by replacing it with the following:
XII. Identification and mapping of all mature and old growth forestland, under public management by departments of the state government in the state of New Hampshire, which may be used for the purposes of potential in situ forest carbon storage, flood and drought mitigation, water quality, and biodiversity protection pursuant to RSA 227-G. For this purpose, the commissioner shall:
(a) Develop definitions of mature and old growth forestry consistent with the purposes of potential in situ forest carbon storage, food and drought mitigation, water quality and biodiversity protection pursuant to RSA 227-G.
(b) Include a public schedule for each year so that the inventory can be completed within a maximum 5 year period.
(c) Produce an annual report of progress until the inventory is finished, with a final report within 6 months of completion, allowing for revisions and updates over time. The commissioner shall submit such reports to the house of representatives and senate committees with jurisdiction over natural resources.
(d) Incorporate the annual and final reports in the forest action plan publications throughout the data collection.
(e) Provide collaboration with educational and community organizations.
(f) Provide no less than 3 public meetings of progress and collaboration annually.
(g) Make all reports and maps publicly available on the departmental website and in all departmental publications and offices the commissioner determines relevant.