HCS/HBs 1134, 1100 & 1559 - This act creates a cost-share incentive program to promote sustainable forestry practices on tracts of at least 40 acres for up to 50% of the costs of the forest management activities, such as protecting water quality, ensuring efficient use and availability of forest resources. This program is limited to $5,000 per year for each individual enrolled in the program. Lands designated as forest croplands are not eligible.

The act also makes it a Class A misdemeanor to knowingly release swine to live in a wild state, public or unfenced private land. Hogs not conspicuously identified by ear tags may be killed without liability on public lands or on private lands with the permission of the landowner.

This act also requires anyone convicted of illegally taking or possessing an antlered deer to remit to the Conservation Commission an amount ranging from $1,500 to $7,500, depending on the deer's Boone & Crockett score. Resident landowners on their own property and individuals guilty of minor tagging or checking violations are exempt. The commission may allocate up to 25% of the funds for grants that promote anti-poaching activities. Courts are required to notify the commission if anyone fails to appear at a hearing or pay a fine for taking wildlife illegally. The commission may consider this information in permit suspension, revocation, or denial actions.
SARAH MORROW