Morton’s bill to protect forestry operations passes Senate

March 13, 2009

Olympia…A measure sponsored by Sen. Bob Morton, R-Kettle Falls, that would protect a forestland owner’s right to harvest timber was unanimously approved by the Senate this week. 

As forestlands are converted to residential, suburban or urban use it becomes more difficult for forest landowners to continue with their commercial forest operations. 

Under Senate Bill 5562, if the growing of trees predates surrounding nonforestry activities, even if the timber has been managed passively, forest practices from planting to harvesting would be protected from nuisance lawsuits. 

“Growing trees is a long-term investment,” Morton said. “Logging might not take place for many years and forestland owners need to be able to harvest and replant regardless of surrounding new development.” 

SB 5562 received positive testimony during a Feb. 12 public hearing in the Senate Natural Resources, Ocean Recreation Committee. The bill is supported by the state Department of Natural Resources and the Washington Forest Protection Association.

The measure is now before the House of Representatives for consideration. 

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Additional contact: Penny Drost (360) 786-7522 or drost.penny@leg.wa.gov