In 1995 Senator Bob Kintigh introduced landmark legislation that gave an incentive to landowners to plant trees on land not currently supporting a forest.
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The act recognizes a landowner's right to grow and harvest trees planted on such lands.
The procedure for qualifying is relatively simple. Before planting or doing any site preparation obtain a recent aerial photo of the tract (needs to be over 5 acres with stocking less than 25 sq ft basal area/acre) and take some ground photos that include common landmarks that will positively identify the location. Within 2-5 years after planting, notify the State Forester that you desire a certificate showing that the area has been afforested. The original plat, aerial and ground photos will be used to verify the original condition. Then have the county clerk record the certificate so it becomes part of the property records.
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This process assures that the future harvest (although not the harvesting methods) are free of restrictions except for within 20 feet of a large or medium stream or any small stream that is a fish bearing or domestic use stream. After removal of the timber crop the land will, in the future be subject to reforestation and other requirements of the forest practices act rules in affect at that time.
Many areas that are currently being planted to Valley ponderosa will qualify for SB530 harvest protection. Landowners should review recent plantations and consider whether or not to request certification. A fee maybe charged but could be well worth it in the future.
