Alaska State Legislature
News from the Senate and House Majorities

Wendy Lindskoog, (907) 465-4582
Jerry Ritter, (907) 465-3804
State Capitol
Juneau, AK 99801
http://www.akrepublicans.org
Actuality Line: 1-800-478-6540

Legislation Amends Forest Practices Act

Protects Fish Habitat

For Immediate Release: January 29, 1998 Contact: Portia Parker, Aide to Senate President Mike Miller, at 465-4711.

Juneau – Senate President Mike Miller and House Speaker Gail Phillips unveiled legislation (SB 270) Thursday that will amend logging practices on private land in Alaska strengthening upstream fish habitats and water quality protections found in current State law.

In 1995, Alaska’s Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) raised concerns regarding timber harvest on private property. In response, a Science and Technical Committee (STC) was created to conduct an in-depth review of the concerns raised by the ADF&G. The committee, comprised of timber, fishing and state agency representatives, reported many of the ADF&G’s concerns unfounded. However, agreement on the need for a solution was presented specific to increased riparian zone protections. A package was presented to the Board of Forestry and the Board, in turn, presented their compromise package to the Legislature.

"This legislation recognizes the importance of safeguards when it comes to harvesting timber along Alaska’s streams," said Speaker Phillips. "I am proud to sponsor the compromise legislation that ensures the protection of our fish habitat. Our Forest Practices Act is recognized by all interested groups as one of the best in the nation and today we are strengthening it."

"This legislation is the result of hard work, years of research and consensus building among the various stakeholders including outdoor enthusiasts, environmentalists, the fishing community and the forest products industry," said Senator Miller. "It represents a balance – protecting private property rights, encouraging economic development and protecting the environment."

Changes to the Forest Practices Act include:

• Changes to the number and definitions of stream classifications to better protect Alaska’s resources.
• New variance requirements for the removal of logs within riparian areas.
• Protection of non-merchantable trees during variation harvesting.
• Refining what constitutes a blockage to fish passage.

The Senate read the bill across Thursday and the House will introduce the legislation Friday.

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