SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6325

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.

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 Institute of Forest Products to the Board of Regents of the University of Washington (UW) 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.

In 2009 the College of Forest Resources became the School of Forest Resources within the UW's new College of the Environment.

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 Director of the UW's School of Forest Resources is directed to coordinate the existing cooperatives and research centers.

The Director of the School of Forest Resources is to appoint an 11 member policy advisory board. Membership on the policy advisory board is to include a broad representation of various interests, including: state and federal governments, environmental organizations, local communities, the timber industry, and tribes. The board members must be reimbursed according to the statute for travel expenses.

The Institute is to provide a progress report to the Legislature by July 1, 2011.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: The Institute will provide an umbrella for the coordination of the research cooperatives and centers. The Institute will provide a common home for the cooperatives and centers, which will result in personnel and resource efficiencies, better public and legislative access and focus, and the potential for financial stability.