Environment (Forestry)

HB 1205 prohibits all state and county-owned lands in New Hampshire from enrolling in carbon sequestration projects, which are programs that capture and store carbon dioxide to reduce atmospheric emissions. This bill directly affects state and county governments, preventing them from participating in such initiatives on public lands they manage. The key provision adds a new section to state law (RSA 79:38) explicitly banning enrollment in carbon sequestration programs for public lands. The law takes effect 60 days after enactment.

This House Resolution (HR 44) expresses support for maintaining public ownership of New Hampshire's state and federal lands, including the White Mountain National Forest and other conserved areas. It specifically opposes efforts to rescind the federal Roadless Rule, which protects roadless areas from logging and development. The resolution urges New Hampshire's governor, attorney general, and congressional delegation to take action against any attempts to weaken these protections. As a non-binding resolution, it does not create new laws but formally states legislative support for preserving public lands.

HB 1440 requires landowners enrolling forestland in carbon sequestration programs to submit forest management plans to the Division of Forests and Lands. These plans must follow best forestry practices and include a habitat protection component developed with Fish and Game biologists to address impacts on wildlife. The Division and Fish and Game jointly review and approve plans, with periodic on-site inspections to ensure compliance. Noncompliance could lead to plan suspension or revocation. The bill affects current forestland owners in carbon sequestration programs, totaling approximately 183,000 acres statewide.