Southeast State Forest Expansion Proposed by GovernorJanuary 14, 2011
“Adding lands to the Southeast State Forest demonstrates our commitment to helping assure an increase in timber production over the long term,” Governor Parnell said. “This bill is one important piece in our overall strategy to stabilize and revitalize the timber industry, and expand wood energy opportunities in Southeast Alaska.” The bill contains provisions to avoid conflicts with the newly formed City and Borough of Wrangell's land selection and entitlement. Lands added to the state forest would continue to be open for multiple uses, including wildlife habitat and harvest, mining and recreational activities. The Governor’s June 2010 signing of legislation establishing Alaska’s third state forest in Southeast Alaska was aimed at providing a long-term land base to support the forest industry in southern Southeast Alaska. While state land holdings in Southeast are limited, the administration sees an opportunity to double the size of the state forest to approximately 50,000 acres. Parnell said in his letter to Speaker of the House Mike Chenault, Alaska's timber industry and energy needs remain top priorities of my administration. This legislation is one important piece of our overall strategy to stabilize and revitalize the timber industry and expand wood energy oppormnities in Southeast Alaska said Panell.
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