Natural Areas Conservation Program Amendment Act of 2025

The Natural Areas Conservation Program Amendment Act of 2025 establishes a new program within the District of Columbia's Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) to protect and restore natural areas like parks, forests, wetlands, and shorelines owned or managed by the city. The program requires DOEE to develop a stewardship plan within 24 months, use integrated pest management to control invasive plants, and partner with community groups and the University of the District of Columbia to plant native species and manage trash. It authorizes DOEE to issue grants for community-led projects that provide training, tools, and technical assistance for invasive plant removal and low-impact recreation (such as hiking and birdwatching) in natural areas. The bill also mandates coordination with city departments like Parks and Recreation and the Metropolitan Police Department to maintain trails, combat illegal dumping, and monitor natural area conditions.