76-13-801. Authorization of pilot program for mechanized fuels reduction and fire suppression -- reporting requirement -- rulemaking. - Montana Statutes

     76-13-801. (Temporary) Authorization of pilot program for mechanized fuels reduction and fire suppression -- reporting requirement -- rulemaking. (1) The department of natural resources and conservation shall establish and implement a private contracting mechanized equipment fuels reduction pilot program on state land within the wildland-urban interface as defined in 76-13-102.
     (2) The purpose of the pilot program is to evaluate the feasibility of using privately contracted mechanized equipment for fuel reduction and fire suppression purposes.
     (3) The department shall:
     (a) design the private contracting mechanized equipment fuels reduction pilot program to:
     (i) cost-effectively reduce fuel loads on state land within the wildland-urban interface;
     (ii) improve the overall health, productivity, and long-term revenue potential for the timber stand;
     (iii) limit visual impacts, minimize soil disturbance, and promote habitat improvement in a manner that conforms with best forestry practices;
     (iv) be consistent with the state forest land management plan; and
     (v) comply with all applicable state laws and rules; and
     (b) provide a report to the 62nd legislature as provided in 5-11-210, evaluating the effectiveness of the pilot program.
     (4) The department may adopt rules to implement this section.
     (5) (a) Unless included in a specific general fund appropriation from the legislature, general fund money may not be used for the pilot program for mechanized equipment fuels reduction and fire suppression provided for in this section. This restriction does not preclude the use of a specific federal appropriation, transfer, gift, donation, grant, legacy, bequest, or devise made for the purposes of this section.
     (b) Money provided pursuant to subsection (5)(a) must be deposited in the appropriate forest health account established in 76-13-802. (Terminates December 31, 2012--sec. 7, Ch. 289, L. 2009.)

     History: En. Sec. 1, Ch. 289, L. 2009.