SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5626

BYSenators Kreidler and Talmadge

Regulating the burning of forest debris.

Senate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 9, 1989

Senate Staff:Atsushi Kiuchi (786-7708)

AS OF FEBRUARY 3, 1989

BACKGROUND:

Burning of forest residue or "slash" after logging is completed is a silvaculture practice directed at reducing fire hazards and promoting new forest growth.  Environmental and health concerns about this activity are growing.

Health impacts, primarily to the eyes and lungs, are caused by the release of particles from the slash burn.  The darkening or obscuring of scenic areas due to the smoke has prompted federal restrictions.  Unexpected wind shifts and changing weather patterns have caused unwelcome and unexpected intrusions.

Slash burning permits are issued by the Department of Natural Resources under provisions of the state and federal Clean Air Act.  The Department of Ecology and Department of Natural Resources entered into a Smoke Management Agreement in 1975, establishing the permit system.

SUMMARY:

Slash burning will not be permitted within 10 miles of four designated high population areas from July 1 through October 1.  By June 15 of each year, the Department of Natural Resources, in consultation with the Department of Ecology, will determine if limited burning is necessary due to unfavorable spring burning conditions that might cause adverse economic impacts.

All authorized burning must be done in a manner to protect Class I areas (near national parks) under terms of the federal Clean Air Act.

The Smoke Management Agreement will be modified by December 1 to achieve the highest reasonable reduction of smoke from forest debris burning.

A task force, representing city, state and federal agencies, private industry, and the general public will study alternatives to burning and ways to reduce slash burning through:  marketing, use as an energy source, incinerators, incentives, technical improvement, and different silvaculture practices.  The report will be submitted to the Legislature on November 1, 1989.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      none requested

Effective Date:The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect immediately.