SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5097
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of January 28, 2009
Title: An act relating to the institute of forest resources.
Brief Description: Regarding the institute of forest resources.
Sponsors: Senator Jacobsen.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Natural Resources, Ocean & Recreation: 1/28/09.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES, OCEAN & RECREATION |
Staff: Sherry McNamara (786-7402)
Background: The Institute of Forest Products was created by the Legislature in 1947 under the Department of Conservation and Development. The Legislature transferred the administration of the Institute to the Board of Regents of the University of Washington in 1959. In 1979 it was renamed the Institute of Forest Resources (Institute) and became responsible for pursuing research and education related to forest resources and its multiple uses, including its conservation, management, and utilization.
Summary of Bill: The scope of the Institute is broadened to provide a framework for prioritizing and conducting interdisciplinary research on critical forest issues. The head of the University of Washington's College of Forest Resources must coordinate the existing cooperatives and research centers.
The head of the College of Forest Resources must appoint an 11 member policy advisory board. Membership on the policy advisory board must broadly represent various interests including state and federal governments, environmental organizations, local communities, the timber industry, and tribes. The board members must be reimbursed for travel expenses.
The Institute must provide reports to the Legislature by July 1, 2010, and July 1, 2011.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: The Institute has been around for years. This bill updates the terminology and brings the statute up to modern times by addressing carbon management and other issues critical to the forest sector. The Institute will be an umbrella organization that will provide the mechanism for coordination between the research cooperatives and centers. The policy advisory board will assist and advise the Institute on prioritization of research needs on the many issues facing forestry today.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Bruce Bare, Dean, University of Washington's College of Forest Resources; Debora Munguia, Washington Forest Protection Association.