Forest would provide opportunities for recreation and economic development

JUNEAU-Yesterday, the Alaska State Senate unanimously passed Senate Bill 159, sponsored by Senator Linda Menard (R-Wasilla), which would create the Susitna State Forest. The forest would include approximately 763,200 acres located on state land mainly west of the Parks Highway.

“Creating the Susitna State Forest meets many important needs,” said Senator Menard. “It sets aside a large swath of public land that will continue to benefit Alaskans for decades to come, both economically and recreationally.”

Establishing the Susitna State Forest would help the Alaska Division of Forestry manage a long-term supply of timber to local processors while keeping the land in state ownership for multiple uses. Under Alaska law, the primary purpose of a state forest is to provide for the sustainable production and utilization of timber resources, while allowing other beneficial uses such as creating fish and wildlife habitat, maintaining a clean water supply, providing opportunities for recreation and tourism, and the development of minerals.

“This bill not only creates and sustains much needed jobs in one of Alaska’s critical industries, it also benefits all Alaskans,” said Senator Menard. “Whether you hunt, fish, hike, or partake in other outdoor recreational activities, this will provide a dedicated place for Alaskans to enjoy.”

The creation of the Susitna State Forest would also allow the Division of Forestry to improve roads and other infrastructure in the area, while personal users would still be able to harvest fire wood from the forest. Also, under Senate Bill 159, private lands within the forest will be identified and then excluded from the State Forest designation. Intent language was added which urges the governor to take actions that will held the state acquire lands in the Tongass National Forest.

If established, the Susitna State Forest would be the fourth state forest in Alaska, joining the Haines State Forest, the Tanana Valley State Forest and the Southeast State Forest.

Senate Bill 159 now heads to the House for further consideration.

For more information, please contact Michael Rovito in Senator Menard’s office at (907) 465-3805.

Source: Office of Senator Linda Menard